2023-08-03 13:35:28
The Land Cruiser traces its origins 72 years ago to the Toyota BJ, launched on August 1, 1951. Soon after, it demonstrated its power and capabilities by becoming the first vehicle to complete the ascent of the 6th Station of Mount Fuji.
Since then, Toyota’s mission for the Land Cruiser has been to provide customers with a vehicle that will get them safely to their destination, even in the harshest environments. The various experiences of customers around the world have been invaluable in the evolution of the Land Cruiser in terms of its essential qualities of reliability, durability and ability to handle the harshest conditions.
No wonder its established reputation around the world has made it one of Toyota’s best-selling models, with 11.3 million sales to date, in more than 170 countries and regions.
The Land Cruiser has established itself as an iconic vehicle among TTs. The new generation that Toyota has just introduced combines the DNA inherited from its predecessors with new technologies to achieve higher levels of performance, both in off-road situations and in everyday use.
Boasts a robust FP design
The new Land Cruiser retains its classic robust body-on-frame structure and follows in the footsteps of its big brother, the Land Cruiser 300 – not available in Western Europe – by adopting Toyota’s GA-F platform, which plays a key role key to dramatically improve off-road performance.
In Western Europe, the new Land Cruiser will be marketed with a 2.8-litre turbodiesel unit, designed to strike a powerful balance between fuel efficiency and performance. It develops a maximum power of 150 kW/204 DIN hp and is paired with a new eight-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission, giving it the power to tow loads of up to 3,500 kg. This engine will be fully compatible with HVO100 biodiesel as is currently the case, demonstrating Toyota’s firm commitment to reducing emissions and carbon footprint. And in early 2025, an electrified version will also be offered that combines the power and efficiency of a diesel engine with 48-volt micro-hybrid technology (MHEV). Its tough and robust appearance expresses the ‘back to the origins’ of the new Land Cruiser, but it is also particularly practical, following the principle that form meets function. Off-road performance is enhanced by short overhangs, sharp cornering and a narrowing underbody, and body components have been designed for easy replacement if damaged.
Modern and technological interior FP
In profile, the exterior design projects the classic Land Cruiser silhouette, with strong horizontal lines. The total length is 4,920 mm, with a width of 1,980 mm and a height of 1,870 mm; the wheelbase is 2,850 mm.
The interior offers a choice of five or seven-seater configurations, with a design that evokes the strength and functionality of a true SUV. This can be seen in details such as the horizontal arrangement of the instrument panel and the keypads, designed to facilitate handling, even when driving on difficult terrain.
Interior of the new Land Cruiser FP
The new frame is 50% stiffer, and the combined rigidity of the body and frame is 30% higher. These substantial improvements contribute to a higher level of response, driving feel and ride comfort. Base suspension performance has also been improved, particularly to help enhance wheel articulation, a key factor for off-road driving.
This is the first Land Cruiser to mount an electric power steering system —Electric Power Steering (EPS)—. This mechanism reduces the jolts that can be experienced when driving on rough surfaces, and offers a smoother and more direct steering, as well as greater maneuverability at any speed.
The installation of the EPS also enables the Land Cruiser to have a Line Maintenance System, as part of the Toyota Safety Sense active safety system and driver assistance functions.
The new Land Cruiser will go on the market in Europe with a special First Edition model, available exclusively to customers who reserve it during the initial pre-sale period, starting in October of this year in certain European markets.
This limited edition – some 3,000 units will be manufactured for Europe – emphasizes the legacy of the Land Cruiser, with several special design cues and undeniable off-road character. In this sense, details such as the classic round headlights and two specific exterior finishes with two-tone paint stand out. Shortly before the opening of the presale more details will be communicated.
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