For over six decades, the Toyota Land Cruiser has carved a legendary path, seamlessly merging on-road comfort with exceptional off-road prowess. This enduring legacy positions Land Cruisers as the go-to vehicle for adventurers and overlanders who demand unwavering reliability and the capacity to transport both people and gear across the most challenging terrains. The latest generation marks a significant evolution, introducing a more accessible and efficient Land Cruiser to the market, while firmly maintaining its reputation as a top contender in the realm of Suvs With 4wd.
The previous iteration of the Land Cruiser, discontinued in 2021, boasted a powerful but fuel-intensive V8 engine. The new model embraces a modern approach with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain, generating an impressive 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, skillfully managed by an eight-speed automatic transmission. True to its heritage, every Land Cruiser gracing American soil comes equipped with a robust 4WD system, empowering drivers to confidently navigate demanding off-road environments. This commitment to four-wheel drive engineering solidifies its place among the most capable SUVs with 4WD available.
Built upon a traditional body-on-frame construction, a hallmark of rugged SUVs with 4WD, the Land Cruiser features an independent front suspension and a durable solid axle rear suspension. Smooth-riding coil springs at each corner ensure a comfortable experience across diverse surfaces, from city streets to rugged trails. For serious off-road expeditions, 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, demonstrating why it remains a benchmark for SUVs with 4WD capability.
This new Land Cruiser generation, with its more approachable price point, is poised to attract a wider audience seeking genuine off-roading capabilities in their SUVs with 4WD. For those desiring to elevate the Land Cruiser’s inherent off-road aptitude with enhanced luxury, power, and towing capacity, the Lexus GX 550 presents a comparable package at a premium. Both models cater to drivers who prioritize robust SUVs with 4WD for both adventurous and everyday driving.
While the current Land Cruiser is more compact and lighter than its V8 predecessors, it still provides ample space for five occupants. The slight reduction in size and the incorporation of the hybrid system’s battery pack mean a third row of seats is not included. However, the focus remains squarely on delivering exceptional SUVs with 4WD performance and passenger comfort within a refined cabin.
The interior of the modern Toyota Land Cruiser is thoughtfully appointed with soft-touch materials and contemporary technology. Drivetrain controls are conveniently located around the shifter, ensuring essential functions are easily accessible. The base 1958 model, priced at $57,900, offers formidable off-road credentials thanks to a standard electronic locking rear differential, Crawl Control, and an 8-inch touchscreen with a rearview camera. Upgrading to the $63,900 Land Cruiser grade adds further luxury and enhanced off-road features, including an electronic sway bar disconnect system, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, and distinctive rectangular LED headlights, reinforcing its status as a top-tier option within the SUVs with 4WD segment.
The 2025 Land Cruiser’s design cleverly blends modern engineering with nostalgic aesthetics, drawing inspiration from the iconic Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s. This appealing combination of retro styling and contemporary capability positions it as a compelling choice for buyers considering authentically capable SUVs with 4WD such as the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, or Land Rover Defender. The Land Cruiser confidently re-enters the market as a leader among SUVs with 4WD, ready to tackle any adventure while offering a blend of efficiency and modern features.
