For over sixty years, the Toyota Land Cruiser has been renowned for its exceptional blend of on-road comfort and rugged off-road capability. It’s often the go-to vehicle for adventurers needing a dependable ride that can transport people and gear across challenging terrains. The latest generation, introduced as a completely new model just last year, brings enhanced affordability and fuel efficiency to the Land Cruiser family, making it a compelling option in the Top Midsize Hybrid Suv category.
The previous Land Cruiser generation, discontinued in 2021, was powered by a fuel-guzzling but potent V8 engine. In contrast, the new model features a 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain, delivering 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Staying true to its heritage, every Land Cruiser sold in the U.S. comes equipped with a capable 4WD system, ready to tackle demanding off-road trails. The Land Cruiser’s body-on-frame construction, a hallmark of traditional SUVs, incorporates an independent front suspension and a robust solid axle at the rear. Coil springs at each wheel ensure a smooth ride, making this SUV comfortable on both city streets and rough trails.
Alt text: 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser front view, a top midsize hybrid SUV with retro design and LED headlights.
Engage the rear differential lock, shift into Low Range, and disconnect the front sway bar, and the Land Cruiser transforms into an incredibly capable off-road machine. This new Land Cruiser’s more accessible price point is expected to attract a wider range of buyers seeking serious off-roading capabilities in a midsize hybrid SUV. For those desiring a touch more luxury, power, and towing capacity while retaining the Land Cruiser’s off-road DNA, the Lexus GX 550 presents a similar, albeit more premium, alternative.
While the latest Land Cruiser is more compact and lighter than its V8 predecessors, it still provides ample space for five occupants. However, due to the slightly reduced length and the space occupied by the hybrid system’s battery pack, a third row of seats is not available.
The interior of this modern Toyota is appointed with soft-touch materials and contemporary technology. The drivetrain controls are conveniently positioned around the gear shifter, ensuring essential functions are within easy reach. The base 1958 model, starting at $57,900, offers impressive off-road features as standard, including an electronic locking rear differential, Crawl Control (an off-road cruise control system), and an 8-inch touchscreen with a rearview camera. Upgrading to the $63,900 Land Cruiser grade adds enhanced luxury and capability, such as an electronic sway bar disconnect system for improved off-road performance, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, and distinctive rectangular LED headlights.
Alt text: 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser interior, displaying dashboard, touchscreen, and driver controls in this top midsize hybrid SUV.
The 2025 Land Cruiser’s design cleverly blends modern engineering with a nostalgic nod to the iconic Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s. This appealing combination should capture the attention of those considering genuinely capable SUVs like the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, or Land Rover Defender, but with the added benefit of hybrid efficiency in a top-tier midsize hybrid SUV. For buyers seeking a blend of heritage, capability, and modern hybrid technology, the 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser positions itself as a strong contender in the top midsize hybrid SUV market.
