Toyota launches all-new Land Cruiser 300 series

The new Toyota Land Cruiser 300 series has launched globally. Featuring a complete redesign, the SUV aims to continue the Land Cruiser's legacy of "reliability, durability, and off-road performance."

The new model brings a wide range of improvements over the previous-gen Land Cruiser 200 series, which launched way back in 2007. These much-anticipated updates include a new platform, suspension, and engine options. 

Riding on the new GA-F platform, the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 promises a refined driving experience and improved environmental performance. While the 300 series retains the same ladder frame structure, the GA-F platform has allowed for a whopping 200 kg weight reduction. This gives the new Land Cruiser a lower center of gravity and better weight distribution. 

With the drop in weight, the 300 series responds better to every driving input. The Land Cruiser's lightweight frame has also been made 20% more rigid than the previous generation, offering improved collision performance and ride quality. 

While its platform is different, the new Land Cruiser's total length and wheelbase length remains the same as the outgoing 200 series. The approach angle and departure angle are also unchanged. 

Together with its new platform, the Land Cruiser 300 features a newly developed suspension system. The front features a high-mount double-wishbone setup, while the rear has a trailing-link rigid axle suspension. 

Toyota has equipped the 300 series with a new Linear Solenoid Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system. The AVS system allows for independent control of each shock absorber's damping force, leading to improved steering stability and ride comfort. 

Of course, this wouldn't be a Land Cruiser without superior off-road capabilities, and Toyota hasn't skimped in that department. The new 300 series features a hydraulic power steering system with an electric steering actuator. This new system delivers a more responsive steering feel while helping with maneuverability at low speeds and reducing kickback while driving off-road. 

The new Land Cruiser also comes equipped with a limited-slip differential (LSD) from Torsen, which provides better rear-wheel traction. Other off-road features include Multi-Terrain Select and Multi-Terrain Monitor. The former allows direct control for different road conditions, while the latter uses cameras positioned around the vehicle to provide insights into off-road situations in real-time.

As for powertrain options, the new 300 series has two available engines. The first is a 3.5 liter V6 twin-turbo gasoline engine, delivering 409 hp and 650 Nm of torque. The second option is a 3.3-liter V6 twin-turbo diesel engine, capable of 304 hp and 700 Nm of torque. 

Both engines connect to a Direct Shift 10-speed automatic transmission. Toyota claims this gearbox offers a more comfortable and rhythmic ride, with better fuel economy at highway speeds and improved starting acceleration.

The all-new Toyota Land Cruiser also features a redesigned interior. Upon entry, the driver is greeted by a 12.3-inch high-resolution widescreen display. The new infotainment system can display navigation, audio, climate controls, and off-road data. Fingerprint authentication is also available for the first time in a Toyota vehicle. For this function, the Smart Key is needed together with a registered fingerprint. The Toyota Safety Sense package is also equipped with the 300 series as standard. 

A GR Sport model is also available. The sportier model includes all the trappings of the GR Sport badge, with special accessories and badging all around the SUV. The Land Cruiser GR Sport also has exclusive features, like an Electronic-Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS), which Toyota claims is the first in the world. Inside the cabin, the GR Sport model features a signature red and black leather interior. A GRS startup screen is also present for the infotainment system.

The all-new Toyota Land Cruiser will be available starting this month. Prices in Japan put the starting cost at ¥5,100,000, which converts to about P2,300,000. However, we think local pricing will be even higher, given the Toyota Land Cruiser 200's price point.