The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser arrives with immense expectations. For decades, the Land Cruiser has been Toyota’s flagship SUV in the US, a symbol of ruggedness and reliability. This new iteration attempts to broaden its appeal, aiming for a more mainstream audience with a striking retro design. However, despite its eye-catching exterior, the 2024 Land Cruiser struggles to deliver the special experience one might expect from such an iconic nameplate.
Let’s be honest, the previous generation Land Cruiser, while boasting legendary durability, was overpriced and under-equipped for its near-$90,000 price tag. Its interior felt more akin to a Toyota 4Runner, lacking the premium feel expected at that price point. While its ruggedness and go-anywhere capability were undeniable, the overall package was arguably a poor value. In this context, the 2024 Land Cruiser had a low bar to clear in terms of improvement.
Moving away from its predecessor, the 2024 Land Cruiser shares little more than a name. This new model is built upon the Land Cruiser Prado platform, a globally sold model derived from the 4Runner. This shift results in a more compact footprint, a modern turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid powertrain replacing the old V8, and that undeniably attractive neo-retro styling. The design is indeed a major highlight, successfully capturing the classic Land Cruiser spirit for the 21st century.
Despite the online buzz and appealing aesthetics, the driving experience of the 2024 Land Cruiser leaves something to be desired. While equipped with advanced off-road technology and various driving modes, the reality is that most Land Cruisers will spend their days on paved roads. A significant drawback is the fuel economy of the touted hybrid powertrain. Despite the downsizing trend and hybrid assistance, the four-cylinder engine returned a disappointing average of under 18 MPG during a week of mixed driving. This figure is particularly concerning when considering the EPA combined estimate of 25 MPG seems wildly optimistic. Comparatively, a larger Toyota Sequoia with a twin-turbo V6 hybrid achieved the same fuel economy in testing, highlighting the inefficiency of the Land Cruiser’s smaller engine in real-world conditions.
Performance-wise, the 2024 Land Cruiser, despite its combined 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque, doesn’t feel particularly quick. A 0-60 mph time of 7.5 seconds is adequate but not inspiring. While Land Cruisers are not built for speed, the “i-FORCE MAX” engine badge suggests more urgency than is actually delivered. Around town and in normal driving, the engine is serviceable, but the hybrid setup’s poor fuel economy overshadows any performance benefits. Furthermore, the engine is surprisingly noisy at idle, with noticeable clicks and clacks that sound unrefined for a new vehicle.
The interior of this mid-range 2024 Land Cruiser model presents a mixed bag. While it’s a decent Toyota interior, it falls short of expectations for a vehicle in the $70,000 price range. Soft-touch materials on the doors and brown leather seats create an initial impression of quality, but the seats themselves are flat and uncomfortable for longer journeys. Numerous cheap-feeling and awkwardly placed controls detract from the overall experience. The flimsy air conditioning button panel and the passenger-inaccessible, steering-wheel-obstructed volume knob are notable ergonomic missteps. The doors also lack the solid, bank-vault feel of older Land Cruisers, sounding hollow and tinny, indicative of cost-cutting measures. The hybrid battery placement raises the cargo floor, reducing cargo volume and practicality. While road noise is well-suppressed, wind noise is prominent, particularly from the large side mirrors, especially at highway speeds and with the windows down.
Further interior disappointments include weak air conditioning, even during moderately warm evenings, and nearly non-existent front seat warmers. The gauge cluster is designed with such poor viewing angles that it’s practically invisible to passengers during the day. The typical convoluted Toyota infotainment system, with its excessive icons and difficult-to-navigate menus, further complicates the user experience. The test vehicle also suffered from a malfunctioning automatic day/night display setting, failing to switch to dark mode at night and requiring manual adjustments to avoid nighttime glare.
Surprisingly, the 2024 Land Cruiser’s driving dynamics are a positive aspect. The steering is precise, making the boxy SUV easy to maneuver. Handling is reasonably competent for its class, demonstrating unexpected balance in corners. While tire grip is limited, it’s demonstrably more agile than previous 4Runners and Land Cruisers. Ride quality is also commendable, effectively absorbing various road imperfections without the overly firm feel often found in Toyota trucks and SUVs.
Off-road, the 2024 Land Cruiser’s capabilities are questionable. Despite its off-road technology and terrain management systems, a ground clearance of just 8.7 inches is a significant limitation. This is less than a current 4Runner and only marginally better than a Toyota Highlander. Without modifications like a lift kit and larger tires, the Land Cruiser’s off-road prowess is compromised, making it susceptible to scraping and bottoming out on even moderately challenging terrain. For serious off-road enthusiasts, the Land Cruiser’s modest ground clearance negates many of the benefits of its advanced off-road systems. A 4Runner TRD Pro might be a more capable and cost-effective option for dedicated off-road use. While the 2024 Land Cruiser can handle off-road environments, it’s unlikely to outperform less expensive SUVs and its capabilities are limited by its ground clearance.
Ultimately, the 2024 Land Cruiser is a vehicle of compromises. Its striking retro design is undeniably appealing, drawing attention and positive feedback. However, the underwhelming engine, mediocre interior for the price, and limited off-road ground clearance detract from its overall appeal. It appears to be more of a fashion statement than a truly capable and well-rounded SUV. For buyers prioritizing style over substance, the 2024 Land Cruiser might suffice. However, for those seeking genuine off-road capability, refined performance, and a premium interior experience commensurate with its price, the 2024 Land Cruiser falls short of expectations. It’s not that the Land Cruiser is bad, but rather it’s disappointing, failing to live up to the hype and its own legendary heritage. By attempting to appeal to a broader audience, the 2024 Land Cruiser has arguably lost some of its unique appeal and desirability.
For a more authentic Land Cruiser experience, consider the Lexus GX 550. Sharing a similar design but boasting a more luxurious interior and a significantly better twin-turbo V6 engine, the GX 550 addresses many of the shortcomings of the Toyota Land Cruiser. The GX 550 offers superior performance, a more refined driving experience, and a comparable price point, making it a more compelling choice for discerning SUV buyers.
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser
As-tested price: $70,029
Pros: Striking retro exterior styling, Electronic off-road tools.
Cons: Thirsty four-cylinder engine, Expensive price tag, Limited ground clearance for off-roading.
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser review and photos by Mitchell Weitzman and The Road Beat.
