The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser feels like a classic, but it has a hybrid powertrain and three more additional features that make it a great SUV from Japan.
Toyota Land Cruiser is perhaps the most renowned SUV to come out from Japan. The 2024 model continues Toyota's tradition of ruggedness, off-road capability, and dependability. While some engineering decisions, like the new powertrain, can be a divisive subject among purists, the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser proves that it is a worthy descendant of its forbearers.
As Toyota promised, the 2024 Land Cruiser went on sale by 2024, with pre-orders being open to customers as early as December 5, 2023. While there is much to love about this new iteration of the Japanese off-road legend, here are four great features that truly complement the new Toyota Land Cruiser.
The 2024 Land Cruiser's Efficient, But Powerful, i-FORCE MAX Powertrain
Gone is the era of Land Cruiser models, powered by big V-8 and sturdy V-6 engines. The first iterations of Toyota's sturdy off-roader were powered by inline-fours and this new one does the same. The i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain revolves around the T24A, turbocharged, four-cylinder engine.
The 2024 Land Cruiser's internal combustion engine features, both, multi-port and direct fuel injection. It works with an electric motor and a 288-Volt, NiMH battery with a usable capacity of 1,87 kWh. Combined power is 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet (630 Nm), most of which is available to you from the start. The 2024 Land Cruiser is the most fuel-efficient yet, with a combined fuel economy of 23 MPG (22 city and 25 highway).
Proven, Old-school Construction, With Modern Touches
The new Land Cruiser retains a classic element, crucial to its character. While the 2024 model is underpinned by the new TNGA-F platform, it is still a body-on-frame construction. As we know, this comes with significant advantages when it comes to off-roading and towing capabilities. This type of construction comes with a characteristic wobbliness, but Toyota engineers have mended that through a fully boxed frame with Dejima laser-welded blanks for increased rigidity.
Aside from the obligatory four-wheel drive, low gears, and craw control, the 2024 Land Cruiser scores a locking rear differential and a front stabilizer bar disconnect system that helps chassis articulation.
The Immense Utility
In true Japanese fashion, even the base Land Cruiser trim brings a lot to the table. With such a serious arsenal of off-road tech, including an 8.3-inch ground clearance, is very unlikely, you are going to get stuck in a Land Cruiser. But just in case you do, the 2024 model comes with easy-to-access recovery points, as standard – a true rarity nowadays, even among SUVs and trucks. All Land Cruiser trims come with a two-range high-low transfer case and boast a towing capacity of 6,001 pounds. Here is how to choose the right 2024 Land Cruiser trim (with video).
The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser scores plenty of tech that allows you to stay off the grid for a limited time while enjoying yourself. Some key features of the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser:
- 2,400-Watt inverter for powering small appliances
- Center console cooling box for provisions
- Qi-compatible, wireless charging, and multiple USB-C ports throughout the whole cabin
- Heated seats and steering come standard
- 12.3-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Multi-Terrain Monitor for 360-degree external view
The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser's Retro-Inspired Design
Everything about the 2024 Land Cruser's looks screams retro. It pays homage to its predecessors, not just in its capabilities, but also through its styling. The boxy design is reminiscent of 60 and 70-series Land Cruisers, while the LED headlights harken back to multiple Land Cruiser generations, including the FJ40.
The invocation of Land Cruisers of old is even more apparent with the new Heritage grill, which scores an egg-case-like texture, duplicated on the lower apron. Even the Land Cruiser's base model trim name, "1958” invokes the past, as this was the first year, the Land Cruiser nameplate was used on a Toyota SUV.
About the author
Dimitar Angelov's automotive interests made him an expert in a wide variety of vehicles. Japanese brands like Toyota are closest to his heart, although performance cars in general are his favorite segment, which is why he is constantly on the lookout for the best deals on the market. Dimitar Angelov's car passion and knack for the written word led him to complete a Master of Arts in Media and Communications, and classic car restoration. Dim is happy to get behind the wheel of any car and share his impressions. You can follow Dimitar on X, Linked-in, Instagram, and Facebook.