For over sixty years, the Toyota Land Cruiser has been a symbol of rugged reliability and exceptional off-road performance, seamlessly blending on-road comfort with the capability to tackle challenging terrains. It’s no surprise that the Land Cruiser is a favored choice for adventurers and overlanders who need a dependable vehicle to carry them and their gear deep into the wilderness. The latest generation of this iconic SUV builds upon this legacy, offering enhanced affordability and efficiency to the esteemed Land Cruiser lineage, making it an even more compelling option in the Four Wheel Drive Suvs market.
The previous generation Land Cruiser, discontinued in 2021, boasted a powerful but fuel-consuming V8 engine. In contrast, the all-new model embraces a modern and efficient 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain. This new engine still delivers a robust 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, paired with a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission. True to its heritage, every Land Cruiser available in the U.S. comes standard with a highly capable 4WD system, ensuring drivers can confidently navigate demanding off-road conditions. This commitment to four wheel drive is a cornerstone of the Land Cruiser’s appeal in the four wheel drive SUVs segment.
The Land Cruiser retains its traditional body-on-frame construction, a hallmark of robust four wheel drive SUVs. It features an independent front suspension for improved on-road handling and a durable solid axle rear suspension, essential for off-road durability. Coil springs at all four corners provide a comfortable ride across various surfaces, from city streets to rugged trails. For serious off-roading, engaging the rear differential lock, shifting into Low Range, and disconnecting the front sway bar transforms the Land Cruiser into an exceptionally skilled off-road machine. This suite of features underscores why the Land Cruiser is considered a top contender among four wheel drive SUVs for off-road enthusiasts.
With a more accessible price point, this new Land Cruiser is poised to attract a wider range of buyers who value off-road prowess in a four wheel drive SUV. For those seeking a blend of Land Cruiser’s off-road capabilities with enhanced luxury, power, and towing capacity, the Lexus GX 550 presents a similar platform at a premium price. Both vehicles cater to the demand for high-performance four wheel drive SUVs, but the Land Cruiser carves its niche by balancing capability with value.
While the latest Land Cruiser is smaller and lighter than its V8 predecessors, it still offers ample space for five occupants. The slightly reduced length and the hybrid battery pack placement mean a third row of seats is not available. However, the focus remains on providing generous space for passengers and essential gear, aligning with the practical needs of four wheel drive SUV owners.
The interior of the modern Land Cruiser is appointed with soft-touch materials and contemporary technology. Drivetrain controls are conveniently positioned around the shifter, ensuring ease of access for the driver. The base “1958” model, starting at $57,900, is well-equipped for off-road adventures, featuring a standard electronic locking rear differential, Crawl Control (an off-road cruise control system), and an 8-inch touchscreen with a rearview camera. The upgraded Land Cruiser grade, priced at $63,900, further enhances luxury and capability with an electronic sway bar disconnect system, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, and distinctive rectangular LED headlights. These features highlight the Land Cruiser’s commitment to providing both essential and premium features in the four wheel drive SUVs category.
The design of the 2025 Land Cruiser cleverly blends modern engineering with retro aesthetics, drawing inspiration from the iconic Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s. This appealing combination of classic design and modern technology positions the Land Cruiser as a compelling option for anyone considering authentically capable four wheel drive SUVs. It stands shoulder-to-shoulder with competitors like the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, and Land Rover Defender, offering a unique blend of Toyota’s renowned reliability and exceptional 4WD performance in the competitive market of four wheel drive SUVs.
