In the list of Toyota’s legendary off-road vehicles, one name stands above them all––the Land Cruiser. Designed in 1951 as a Jeep copy for the Japanese National Police Agency, the Land Cruiser has evolved over the years into a powerful and incredibly reliable vehicle known for conquering some of the harshest terrains across the globe. However, as time went on, the Land Cruiser also put on some weight, ballooning in size to a luxurious three-row SUV with a nearly six-figure price tag before it was pulled from the US market in 2021. Now, the Land Cruiser is back for 2024 as a slimmed-down, retro-inspired model that is intended to be more affordable for the average off-road enthusiast.
The first that catches the eye about the new Land Cruiser is its blocky shape with wide fender flares, square grille, and retro round headlights. It’s a major departure from the sleek, subdued lines of the old Land Cruiser and is a bold announcement that this legendary model is returning to its roots as a non-nonsense off-road machine. Underneath its skin, the 2024 Land Cruiser is a true body-on-frame SUV that shares its platform with the Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Tundra. It includes a solid rear axle and ladder frame for the incredible durability that this model has always been known for. However, it is also 4.4 inches narrower and 1.2 inches shorter than the old model for greater agility on the trail.
A Hybrid Off-Road Machine
Aside from its blocky new two-row body, the biggest change to the new Land Cruiser is the inclusion of a standard hybrid powertrain. The last generation was powered by an ancient 5.7L V8 rated for an abysmal 14 MPG combined, so the jump to Toyota’s cutting-edge i-FORCE MAX turbocharged 2.4L hybrid is revolutionary. This is the same engine offered for the top trims of the new 2024 Toyota Tacoma and produces 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque––that’s 64 lb-ft more than the old V8. While the fuel economy figures have yet to be announced, we can expect they will also significantly improve over the old model.
But a more powerful and efficient engine is not the only mechanical upgrade for the new Land Cruiser. The 2024 model comes standard with four-wheel drive, including a two-speed transfer case and electronic-locking rear differential, making it better at putting power to the ground than a base model Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco. Not content to stop there, Toyota also added an available front sway bar disconnect for greater articulation. The high front bumper and 8.7 inches of ground clearance give the Land Cruiser a 31-degree approach angle, 22-degree breakover angle, and 25-degree departure angle. Tow hooks are standard, and skid plates are available on certain trims. However, in one remarkable oversight, all-terrain tires will not be available from the factory.
Upgraded Technology and New Features
Inside the 2024 Land Cruiser, you will find a comfortable, high-tech cabin that is more truck-like than the old model. An eight-inch touchscreen is standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as Over-the-Air updates, and you can upgrade to a 12.3-inch display. There is also a digital driver display to provide more information than traditional analog gauges. One of the coolest features is the available Digital Key, which allows you to use your smartphone as your keyfob––perfect for when you don’t want to keep your keys with you on an adventure.
Of course, the technology in the 2024 Land Cruiser isn’t just for comfort. The large displays can be used to watch for obstacles with the Multi-Terrain Monitor, and Multi-Terrain Select is standard on every trim. This includes selectable drive modes for Mud, Dirt, and Sand and functions in both 4Hi and 4Lo. Further, CRAWL Control and Downhill Assist Control are standard features, giving you added confidence when navigating technical terrain and steep slopes. Rounding out the tech package is the latest Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite of driver-assist features, plus Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
A Worthy Entry in the Land Cruiser Saga
The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser is quite a departure from the last version of this iconic nameplate, but it’s difficult to argue that the changes weren’t for the better. While it was certainly rugged, the Land Cruiser had begun losing its way, emphasizing luxury over adventure. The new model has refocused on the original Land Cruiser spirit, providing a wealth of off-road features designed to satisfy any overlander. Even better, the new model is expected to be priced in the mid-$50,000 range, putting it in the same ballpark as the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro. If you have wanted a serious off-road machine that provides more creature comforts than a Wrangler or Bronco, then the new 2024 Land Cruiser will fill that niche.
