After a three year hiatus in the US, the iconic Toyota Land Cruiser is making its highly anticipated return for the 2024 model year.
Unveiled recently in Salt Lake City, the new Land Cruiser ushers in major changes while still maintaining the off-road capability and durability the nameplate is known for.
A New Powertrain Setup
One of the biggest surprises with the new Land Cruiser is under the hood. Gone is the thirsty 5.7L V8t hat powered previous generations.
In its place, Toyota has slotted in a 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid powertrain. This setup, which is shared with vehicles like the Toyota Crown and Grand Highlander, produces 326 combined horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque.
It's mated to an 8-speed automatic transmissionand standard full-time 4WD system with a two-speed transfer case.
Toyota made this change to get better gas mileage and meet pollution rules. However, it remains to be seen how well this smaller turbo-four can handle towing compared to the V8.
Toyota rates the new Land Cruiser to tow up to 6,000 pounds, which is down from the 8,100 pounds the old model could pull. This could be an issue for owners who plan to tow heavy loads like large trailers and boats.
Updated Chassis and Off-Road Capability
While the powertrain is all-new, Toyota engineered the Land Cruiser to still be extremely capable when taken off the pavement. It rides on a new ladder frame chassis made of high-strength steel, which Toyota says improves rigidity.
The Land Cruiser also benefits from an updated suspension setup, with double wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear paired with coil springs. Off-road enhancements include:
- Multi-Terrain Select
- Downhill Assist Control
- Full-time 4WD with locking center differential
- Two-speed transfer case with high/low range
- Up to 8.7 inches of ground clearance
To further improve its rock-crawling chops, features like rock rails and steel skid plates can be added. With an approach angle of 31 degrees and a 25 degree breakover angle, the Land Cruiser should still live up to its reputation of being able to traverse harsh terrain.
Smaller Exterior Dimensions
In order to improve maneuverability off-road, Toyota made the new Land Cruiser a bit smaller than its predecessor. Overall length is down 4.4 inches, while width shrinks 1.2 inches. The Land Cruiser still provides plenty of room for passengers and cargo, but its dimensions are now much closer to midsize SUVs.
This right-sizing brings up an important question:
why buy a body-on-frame vehicle?
For some buyers, the body-on-frame construction is attractive for its durability, towing capability, and off-road performance. But with smaller dimensions and more car-like manners, an argument could be made for a unibody crossover SUV.
Streamlined Trim Levels
Toyota is simplifying things when it comes to trim levels. The Land Cruiser will be offered in just three basic configurations:
-Base
Cloth seats, smaller touchscreen, basic audio. Aimed at value-conscious buyers.
-Mid-tier
Adds leather seats, larger touchscreen, more audio speakers. Most popular choice expected.
-First Edition
Special launch edition with unique badging. Extremely limited availability.
Regardless of which trim customers select, Toyota has worked to include the latest tech features. All Land Cruisers come standard with the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite of driver aids and wireless
Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration. Over-the-air software updates will also be supported.
The Takeaway
The iconic Land Cruiser returns to the US for 2024 with some major changes under the skin. A new turbocharged hybrid powertrain promises improved fuel economy, but may leave some owners wishing for the old V8’s robust towing abilities.
While smaller and more maneuverable, it retains impressive off-road credentials. Toyota has simplified the ordering process with just three trim levels.
Starting around $50,000, the revived Land Cruiser gives shoppers a durable, off-road ready SUV with plenty of modern tech. But buyers should weigh whether old-school body-on-frame construction is a priority versus more road-focused unibody designs.
One thing is certain: the Land Cruiser remains a highly capable adventure-ready vehicle for those who need to traverse rough terrain in comfort and style.
5 Key Questions about the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser
1. How much towing capacity does the new Land Cruiser have?
The 2024 Land Cruiser can tow up to 6,000 pounds.
2. Is a third row seat available?
No, the new Land Cruiser is a two-row five passenger SUV. There is no third row seat option.
3. What SUVs are the main competitors to the Land Cruiser?
The Land Rover Defender and Jeep Wagoneer are body-on-frame competitors. The Audi Q7 and BMW X5 offer similar luxury.
4. When does production start for the 2024 Land Cruiser?
Production will begin in spring of 2024, after the limited First Edition models launch.
5. Will there be a hybrid version of the related Lexus LX?
Details are scarce, but Lexus has confirmed a hybrid powertrain is coming soon to the LX SUV.
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