The Toyota Land Cruiser has long been an emblem of durability and off-road prowess, and the latest iteration aims to combine these strengths with improved on-road comfort. Priced from £74,995, this iconic SUV promises enhanced road manners while retaining its legendary off-road capabilities.
A Legacy of Toughness
Toyota’s reputation for robust engineering owes much to the Land Cruiser. While its popularity in Europe might be niche, globally, it remains a heavyweight in the SUV market. In various regions, the Land Cruiser even boasts multiple model lines, including the grand 4.6m-long 300 Series and the rugged 70 Series, which features a 4.5-litre V8 diesel engine and a manual transmission.
The 250 Series Arrives
For European markets, the spotlight falls on the Land Cruiser 250 Series, also known as the Prado. Introduced in 2024, this new generation maintains a traditional mechanical setup, avoiding the electrification trend for now. However, Toyota has confirmed a 48V mild-hybrid version will be available in the future.
The 250 Series is powered by a 2.8-litre four-cylinder diesel engine, familiar from the previous Land Cruiser and the Toyota Hilux. A revised turbocharger enhances torque delivery across a broader range. This engine is coupled with a new eight-speed automatic gearbox called Direct Shift, featuring a torque converter with a lock-up clutch that engages at lower speeds.
Trim Levels and Unique Design Choices
Buyers can choose between two trims: Invincible and First Edition. The limited-run First Edition, now sold out, drew inspiration from the classic 1960s Land Cruiser 40. It featured retro round headlights and exclusive Smoky Blue or Land Sand paint paired with a grey roof.
Standard features across the lineup include black leather upholstery, dual-zone air conditioning, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and a head-up display. Additional highlights include a JBL sound system, panoramic reversing camera, digital driver’s display, 20-inch alloy wheels, and a sunroof.
Interestingly, Toyota offers two distinct headlight designs. The First Edition comes with round headlights, while the Invincible trim features a more contemporary square design.
Performance on and off the Road
Despite its retro-inspired looks, the new Land Cruiser is no relic. Its updated mechanicals translate to a smoother and more refined driving experience on paved roads. Off-road, it remains as formidable as ever, handling rugged terrain with ease.
However, its body-on-frame construction means the ride can be less composed than more road-focused SUVs with monocoque designs or six-cylinder engines. Additionally, its premium price tag positions it against well-established competitors offering more refinement.
Verdict
Pros:
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Striking new design
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Exceptional off-road capability
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Improved on-road comfort
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Tech-rich interior with modern amenities
Cons:
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Less refined ride compared to monocoque alternatives
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Expensive compared to some rivals
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On-road comfort can be bumpy
The Toyota Land Cruiser 250 Series masterfully balances its off-road heritage with modern comforts, making it a compelling choice for those who value capability without compromising on today’s tech-savvy features
