For over six decades, the Toyota Land Cruiser has cultivated a reputation for blending on-road comfort with exceptional off-road prowess. This legacy makes it a compelling option for those seeking a luxury large SUV that doesn’t compromise on capability. The latest generation, an all-new model launched last year, refines this blend, presenting a more accessible and efficient Land Cruiser to a discerning market.
While previous iterations boasted powerful, yet thirsty, V8 engines, the 2025 Land Cruiser embraces a modern approach with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain. This innovative system delivers 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, ensuring robust performance and improved fuel economy. True to its heritage, every Land Cruiser continues to feature a highly capable 4WD system, ready to tackle challenging terrains while providing a secure and luxurious ride for passengers. The body-on-frame construction, a hallmark of traditional SUVs, combined with independent front suspension and a durable solid rear axle, contributes to both the vehicle’s ruggedness and its comfortable ride quality on diverse road surfaces. Coil springs at each corner further enhance ride smoothness, making it equally adept on city streets and rugged trails. For serious off-road enthusiasts, features like a locking rear differential, low-range gearing, and a front swaybar disconnect transform the Land Cruiser into an exceptionally capable off-road luxury SUV.
The strategic pricing of this new Land Cruiser generation positions it to attract a broader spectrum of buyers who appreciate off-road capability without sacrificing luxury. For those desiring an even higher level of opulence, enhanced power, and increased towing capacity, the Lexus GX 550 emerges as a closely related alternative within the luxury large SUV category, offering a similar foundational package at a premium price point. This makes the Land Cruiser an intriguing proposition for buyers considering the Best Luxury Large Suv options but seeking a blend of value and proven capability.
Despite being smaller and lighter than its V8 predecessors, the current Land Cruiser still provides ample space for five occupants. While the slightly reduced length and the incorporation of a hybrid battery pack mean a third row of seats is no longer available, this design choice prioritizes passenger comfort and cargo utility, aligning with the needs of many luxury SUV buyers.
Inside, the Land Cruiser’s cabin is appointed with refined, soft-touch materials and integrates contemporary technology. The intuitive placement of drivetrain controls around the shifter ensures that essential functions are readily accessible to the driver, enhancing the overall user experience. The base ‘1958’ model, starting at $57,900, is generously equipped with features that underscore both its off-road credentials and its luxury aspirations, including an electronic locking rear differential, Crawl Control, and an 8-inch touchscreen with integrated camera. Stepping up to the Land Cruiser grade, priced at $63,900, further elevates the luxury and capability with additions such as an electronic swaybar disconnect system, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, and striking rectangular LED headlights.
The 2025 Land Cruiser successfully marries modern engineering with a design that evokes the iconic Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s. This harmonious blend of retro aesthetics and contemporary features positions it as a compelling choice for those cross-shopping in the authentically capable luxury SUV segment, alongside rivals like the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, and Land Rover Defender. For buyers seeking the best luxury large SUV that confidently balances refined comfort with legendary ruggedness, the Toyota Land Cruiser presents a strong and appealing case.
