Name: Toyota Land Cruiser Review
Item: Toyota Land Cruiser
Author: Gumtree.com

Few SUVs with genuine off-road ability remain in the market today, but the iconic Toyota Land Cruiser remains true to its traditional 4X4 roots. Currently in its second generation, this Toyota is designed to tackle muddy tracks rather than tarmac. Lots of options in trims and body styles make the Land Cruiser easy to customise. There’s also a very capable commercial model that comes with plenty of load area. Toyota’s impeccable reputation for reliability and build quality make the Land Cruiser a practical choice in the thinning segment.

Visit the Toyota Land Cruiser model page to explore available cars and learn more.

What we think about the Toyota Land Cruiser

The Toyota Land Cruiser is a top choice if you’re looking for a spacious and rugged 4X4 with incredible pulling power.

Pros

A highly capable off-roader

Robust construction

Roomy interiors

Cons

–

Slightly expensive to run

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Can feel a bit dated compared to rivals

The Land Cruiser has been around since 2003, and a second generation was introduced in 2009. There have been plenty of facelifts since to help it keep abreast with the competition. While older models are traditional 4X4s, the new models are more SUV-like without compromising on the off-roading ability. You can choose between three and five-door body styles, as well as five and seven-seat configurations. The latest model is available in two trims: the base model and the Heritage Edition.

Driving performance of the Toyota Land Cruiser

Our Driving Rating7 / 10

The Land Cruiser’s biggest strength is its off-road performance. A low-ratio gearbox and a lockable centre differential mean you can count on this Toyota to tackle any terrain without as much as a flinch. On the road, it’s more comfortable at low speeds and for relaxed cruising. As a tall and heavy car, it takes time to get used to, but once you get the hang of it, there’s little to complain about. A tip for used car buyers: it’s worth taking this one out for longer test drives to truly understand whether it’s practical for you.

Safety and reliability of the Toyota Land Cruiser

Our Safety Rating9 / 10

Although there’s no Euro NCAP test to put a number on its safety rating, almost all models are packed with the latest safety features. Seven airbags, traction control and emergency braking come as standard on all latest-generation models. With Toyota’s solid reputation for reliability, you can rest assured that you’re in safe hands with the Land Cruiser.

Under the bonnet of the Toyota Land Cruiser

Our Engine Rating8 / 10

The latest models are only available with a 2.8-litre diesel in a four-cylinder configuration. The previous 3.0-litre engine available until 2015 reaches 0-60 mph in 11.3 seconds, while the 2020 release takes the time down to 9.3 seconds – all thanks to a 30 bhp power hike. Although the engines aren’t as refined as European counterparts, such as the Land Rover Discovery, the Toyota is undeniably the better choice for an outdoor adventure. While it rarely feels quick, the Land Cruiser is a practical option as it can comfortably lug a large amount of weight.

What you'll find in the Toyota Land Cruiser

Our Design Rating7 / 10

One glance at this Toyota and you know it’s meant to look reliable and capable rather than sporty. The traditional SUV architecture means that it follows clean lines with a boxy outlook. A tall ride height and bulging wheel arches mean that the Land Cruiser has a strong road presence that matches its rugged nature. A 2014 face-lift included full LED lamps, giving an imposing feel. For better road visibility, the 2018 version adds a dip in the bonnet along with new headlights. All in all, the Land Cruiser’s simple layout with old-school features gives it a certain charm that sets it apart from rivals.

Comfort and interiors in the Toyota Land Cruiser

Our Comfort Rating8 / 10

The clean exteriors carry through to the interior. The dashboard is ergonomic, with everything neatly laid out – nothing is too cluttered or fancy. The three-door style effectively caters to commercial use, while the five-door is more family-friendly. 620 litres of boot space in five-seat mode is comparable to rivals like the BMW X5. There are plenty of small storage areas to stow away odds and ends. Although it’s a big car, the traditional 4X4 architecture does cut down on interior space, but it’s not uncomfortable by any means. A solid towing capability of 3000kg makes the Land Cruiser a strong contender in the segment.

What features you'll find in the Toyota Land Cruiser

Our Features Rating7 / 10

The latest 2020 model features Toyota’s Touch 2 multimedia system, with an eight-inch touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Older models can feel a bit dated in terms of in-car entertainment, but going with the higher spec trim can get you some fancy features. The base-level Active trim comes with a reversing camera, rear parking sensors and cruise control. Upgrading to the Invincible trim gives you larger 19-inch alloy wheels, heated seats, front parking sensors, as well as a black styling kit and wooden elements in the cabin. Overall, while the Land Cruiser doesn’t have luxurious interiors, plenty of toys in the standard kit do make it more appealing.

What fuel efficiency to expect from the Toyota Land Cruiser

Our Fuel Consumption Rating7 / 10

On the latest 2020 model, Toyota claims a fuel efficiency of 30 mpg. The newest 2.8-litre engine is slightly more efficient than the previous 3.0-litre diesel. A large 87-litre tank means that you can comfortably take it out for long runs without many pitstops. Although a bit expensive to run, the figures are as expected for a large off-roader. However, it is cheaper to drive out of the showroom than the European rivals. Purchasing from the second-hand market offsets the costs even further.

Running costs of the Toyota Land Cruiser

Our Cost Rating8 / 10

Steep CO2 emissions of 250 g/km put the Land Cruiser at Insurance groups 38-39, depending on the trim level. Expect the first-year tax to be on the higher side too. Note that Toyota’s generous five-year/100,000-mile warranty is far better than rivals. Where the Land Cruiser truly shines is reliability. Even older cars in the second-hand market are well put together, and your only costs are likely to be regular servicing, which is also fairly inexpensive given Toyota’s fixed pricing system.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBCU7F8m64Y

Our verdict of the Toyota Land Cruiser

4 / 5 Gumtree rating

If you're looking for a rugged and reliable off-roader with plenty of space and strong towing capability, you can't go wrong with the Toyota Land Cruiser

Toyota Land Cruiser Review