Undeniably, the Land Cruiser stands as one of Toyota’s most emblematic models, its origins even predating the brand’s introduction to the U.S. market. Once the Land Cruiser made its U.S debut as the FJ25, it instantly built a strong reputation for off-road capabilities among consumers. However, in 2021, Toyota indicated that the celebrated model was coming to an end. Interestingly, what seemed like the end has been transformed into a resurgence, with an entirely new, albeit downsized, 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser set to launch this fall.
Highlights of the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser
Steeped in a rich history of quality, durability, and reliability, the Land Cruiser has evolved significantly from its debut in the late 1950s. Its fame soared with the arrival of the 40 Series, which cemented its best-selling status in the U.S for five years consecutively. The iconic boxy look, flat roof, short overhangs, and the classic “TOYOTA” grilles of these early models have left an indelible mark on the brand’s lineage.
This new generation Land Cruiser has been meticulously designed, engineered, and tested to endure the most challenging environments. It now comes equipped with the exclusive i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, capable of delivering 326 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque. Constructed on the TNGA-F global truck platform, this iteration is leaner and more compact than its predecessor, the 200 Series, allowing for enhanced off-road maneuverability.
Toyota’s North American-based studio CALTY Design Research has guided the design approach for the 2024 Land Cruiser. The theme – authentic, reliable, timeless, and professional – has been seamlessly incorporated into the vehicle’s design. Its signature appearance – round LED headlights and the ‘TOYOTA’ heritage grille – is reminiscent of Land Cruisers of the past, while the body profile, improved outward visibility, and reduced front overhang further enhance the vehicle’s off-road capability.
Advanced Hybrid Powertrain
The Land Cruiser features an i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain that pairs a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with a 48-hp electric motor. This powertrain, integrated into an eight-speed transmission and powered by a 1.87-kWh NiMH battery pack, promises substantial power and torque output. All models are equipped with a full-time four-wheel drive system, an electronic locking rear differential, and vehicle stability control (VSC), providing superior traction control on uneven terrain.
The new Land Cruiser comes with advanced off-road tech features such as Multi-Terrain Select, CRAWL Control function, and Downhill Assist Control. It also offers options for customization with over 100 accessories, including off-road recovery gear and outdoor sporting equipment carriers, to make your off-road adventures more enjoyable.
Three Grades for the Choosing
Inside, the Land Cruiser is available in three grades: Land Cruiser 1958, Land Cruiser, and the limited Land Cruiser First Edition. The standard features across all grades include an 8.0-inch touchscreen supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Smart Key System with push-button start, and the latest Audio Multimedia system from Toyota. Furthermore, it provides a seamless connectivity experience with Over-the-Air (OTA) updates and an option to turn the vehicle into an AT&T hotspot.
The limited First Edition grade features two exclusive two-tone paint colors and additional off-road equipment, limited to 5,000 units for the first two months of production. The 2024 Land Cruiser is expected to hit U.S. roads in the spring of 2024, with prices to be announced closer to the release date. Toyota will produce this model in their Tahara and Hino plants in Japan.
Safety Features
Every 2024 model from Toyota comes standard with the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, a comprehensive suite of active safety and convenience systems. These have been made more effective with the inclusion of sensors boasting superior detection capabilities.
The features in this suite are as follows: pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control, lane tracing assist, road sign assist, automatic high beams, and proactive driving assist.
The proactive driving assist, using the vehicle’s camera and radar, is designed to gently brake into curves or gently brake and/or steer to assist with tasks such as maintaining a safe distance from a preceding vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist. It’s worth noting that this feature complements, but does not replace, the pre-collision system and operates under different circumstances.
Key Takeaway
Reflecting its enduring legacy, Toyota group vice president and general manager Dave Christ comments, “This icon belongs in our lineup. For 2024, Land Cruiser returns to its origin with a heritage-inspired design paired with the legendary capability and durability Land Cruiser is known for, and it will take even more customers on adventures across the globe as it has done for generations.”
Despite being more compact, lighter, and utterly transformed from the latest Land Cruiser, we anticipate that the new model will captivate enthusiasts. Its significantly reduced entry price, around $55,000, represents a drop of $30,000 from its predecessor. Consequently, it will appeal to a fresh segment of consumers, safeguarding the enduring legacy of this legendary model for future generations.
See Also — Toyota Land Cruiser: On-Road Comfort; Off-Road Grit
Photos courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
