For over six decades, the Toyota Land Cruiser has cultivated a legendary reputation as a vehicle that seamlessly blends on-road comfort with exceptional off-road capability. Renowned among overlanders and adventurers alike, the Land Cruiser has consistently proven itself as a reliable companion for tackling challenging terrains while carrying both passengers and essential gear. The latest generation, introduced as a completely redesigned model just last year, aims to broaden the Land Cruiser’s appeal by offering increased affordability and improved fuel efficiency to this iconic model line, making it an even more attractive option in the competitive 4×4 SUV market.
The previous iteration of the Land Cruiser, discontinued in 2021, boasted a powerful but fuel-guzzling V8 engine. In contrast, the 2025 model embraces a modern approach, featuring a new 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain. This innovative engine still delivers a robust 326 horsepower and an impressive 465 pound-feet of torque, coupled with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. Staying true to its heritage, every Land Cruiser destined for the U.S. market is equipped with a highly capable 4WD system, ensuring drivers can confidently venture far off the beaten path. The Land Cruiser’s traditional body-on-frame construction, a hallmark of robust SUVs, is paired with an independent front suspension and a durable solid axle rear suspension. Comfortable coil springs at each wheel contribute to a smooth ride quality, making this SUV equally at home on city streets and rugged trails. For serious off-road situations, engaging the rear differential lock, shifting into Low Range, and disconnecting the front sway bar transforms the Land Cruiser into an exceptionally talented off-road machine.
This new Land Cruiser’s more accessible price point is expected to attract a wider range of buyers seeking a 4×4 SUV with genuine off-road credentials. For those who desire a step up in luxury, power, and towing capacity while retaining similar off-road DNA, the Lexus GX 550 presents a compelling alternative within the same automotive family, albeit at a higher price point. This makes the Land Cruiser a strategically positioned “good 4×4 SUV” for a broader market segment.
While the latest Land Cruiser is both smaller and lighter than its V8-powered predecessors, it still provides ample space for comfortably seating five adults. However, the reduced overall length and the incorporation of a hybrid battery pack mean that a third row of seats is no longer available in this generation. This design choice reinforces its focus on being a highly capable and comfortable “good 4×4 SUV” for five passengers, prioritizing off-road performance and passenger space over maximum seating capacity.
The interior of the modern Toyota Land Cruiser is thoughtfully appointed with soft-touch materials and incorporates contemporary technology. Drivetrain controls are conveniently positioned around the gear shifter, placing essential functions within easy reach for the driver. The base “1958” model, starting at $57,900, is already 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. Upgrading to the “Land Cruiser” grade, priced from $63,900, adds further enhancements to both luxury and capability, including an electronic sway bar disconnect system for improved articulation off-road, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen display, and distinctive rectangular LED headlights. These features solidify its standing as a well-equipped “good 4×4 SUV” in its class.
While the 2025 Land Cruiser benefits from modern engineering and mechanics, its exterior styling consciously evokes the iconic Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s. This retro-inspired design is intended to resonate with those seeking a blend of classic aesthetics and contemporary performance in a “good 4×4 SUV”. The overall package is highly likely to capture the attention of buyers considering genuinely capable SUVs such as the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, or Land Rover Defender. The Land Cruiser effectively positions itself as a strong contender in this segment, offering a unique combination of heritage, capability, and modern features that make it a truly “good 4×4 SUV” option for a wide range of drivers.
