As Toyota’s longest running global model, the Land Cruiser has evolved many times over. They started as a simple off-road vehicle along the lines of the original military Jeep to luxurious models that are commonly found in various parts of the world.
For American consumers, Toyota wanted to reboot the Land Cruiser into something that is capable, but more attainable than before. It had to be smaller and nimbler, without sacrificing its original mission.
The result is the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser. It is indeed all of the above.
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser
The 2024 Land Cruiser is built on a common TNGA-F platform underpinning multiple models from mid-size SUVs to full-size pickup trucks. The profile is tall and easily accessible from the surface. Doors open wide and glass is large and deep to see out of. Because of its overall height, you might appreciate the retro design of the front and rear ends applied to a more modern profile.
The liftgate features a rear glass that can be opened as another way to load cargo.
Our 1958 Edition tester – named for the first year Toyota sold automobiles in the U.S.A. - adds 18-inch alloy wheels and round headlamps to finish up the exterior’s look.
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser
The cabin continues the Land Cruiser’s theme of being a rugged SUV. However, there is a seven-inch digital instrument panel is fully customizable. The dashboard integrates an eight-inch infotainment touch screen with multiple connectivity options and is easier to use overall. The Land Cruiser also offers plenty of tangible controls that are easy to use and understand.
The Land Cruiser’s cabin itself offers a lot of space for five occupants to sit across two rows. The manually adjustable fabric trimmed seats are big, comfortable, and supportive up front. Second row room is good with plenty of height to see over the driver.
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser
Cargo space starts with a 37.5 cubic feet space behind the rear seats. You can fold down those seats for longer items.
Powering the Land Cruiser is Toyota’s i-FORCE MAX turbocharged hybrid engine. The driveline consists of a 2.4-liter turbocharged gasoline, an electric motor in the rear, and a Nickel-Hydride battery that is rechargeable through regenerative braking and energy return. This driveline puts down 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission send all that power to all four wheels.
Performance from this driveline is nothing short of terrific. It delivers on solid passing and acceleration, while providing solid cruising at highway speed. Off road performance was equally superb, putting the power down when it needs to. The Land Cruiser has Downhill Ascent Control and CRAWL Control to manage tougher hills and moguls. For fuel economy, we averaged 19.2 MPG in our care.
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser
Whether it is on the highway or off road, the Land Cruiser is smooth, civilized, and well dampened to handle all conditions. It features a fully independent set-up for all four wheels – double wishbones up front and four-links in the rear. There was nominal roll and lean in the corners at speed. It is very stable, overall.
The steering system offers easy work for tight maneuvers. The Land Cruiser has an excellent on-center feel that minimizes play when going down the middle of the lane. Pedal feel for the braking system is very good with strong response. We experienced good stops in both normal and panic situations.
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser
Pricing for the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser starts at $55,950. You have a choice of three trim levels including a First Edition model. Our 1958 Edition tester came with a sticker price of $59,979.
The Land Cruiser may be back, but it will now compete with a different set of competitors. Those rivals include the Jeep Wrangler, Ford Bronco, INEOS Grenadier, and Land Rover Defender 110.
The legacy of one of Toyota’s first offerings in America has been cemented with this all new version. It is exactly as advertised – nimble, powerful, agile, and comfortable. If you’re ready for a good off-roader that works well on the highway, consider the newest Toyota Land Cruiser.
Credits: CarSoup Editors
