THE Toyota Land Cruiser was initially introduced to the North American market in 1958. In Canada, the 60 series was the last generation to be released in 1989. However, the United States will have retained this nameplate longer than we have in the market, with the 200 series which was offered until 2020.
However, things will change very soon, since Toyota has just unveiled an all-new generation of the Land Cruiser, for the 2024 model year, and it will be offered again with us.
Maintaining its roots
The most nostalgic will be happy to learn that Toyota has decided to draw inspiration from the roots of its iconic SUV to design this new generation. As was the case in the past, the Land Cruiser will always sit on a ladder frame. However, the latter will be stiffer and will use Toyota’s global TNGA-F platform.
In terms of dimensions, the next-generation Toyota Land Cruiser will be 112 millimeters narrower and 30 millimeters shorter than the 200 series, which is the outgoing model in the United States offered until 2020. These changes will allow for better agility in off-road driving, according to Toyota.
Contrary to popular belief, the 2024 Land Cruiser will be smaller in size compared to the recently unveiled 2024 Lexus GX.
Two versions and a limited edition
Two versions will be available from us and each will have a unique look and finish. First, the 1958 grade gives a look reminiscent of older models with its round LED headlights on either side of the heritage grille bearing the Toyota name in the center. This will be the entry-level version that will benefit from equipment such as heated seats with manual adjustments covered with fabrics, an 8-inch multimedia screen, 6 speakers and the heated steering wheel, among others.
The second trim level of the 2024 Land Cruiser will be distinguished mainly at the front by thin, rectangular LED headlights that evoke the old FJ62. The interior of the latter benefits from a level of finish enhanced by seats upholstered in SoftTex which offer electric adjustments and heated and ventilated functions. The multimedia system inherits a larger screen, ie 12.3 inches. The audio system benefits from its side of 10 speakers.
Limited to 5,000 copies for North America, Toyota will also offer a special edition called First Edition. The latter will be equipped with round LED headlights as on the 1958 version. It will also be equipped with a roof rack, additional off-road accessories as well as two new two-tone exterior colors.
Up-to-date technology
Although the Land Cruiser incorporates several elements that nod to the past, it is a vehicle with today’s technologies on board. Right off the bat, the SUV includes the full Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 driver assistance suite as standard. This includes all of the following: Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with full speed range, Lane Keeping Assist, traffic sign recognition, automatic high beams and proactive driving assistance.
In addition, the 2024 Land Cruiser will offer the Japanese manufacturer’s latest infotainment system, compatibility with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as an 8 or 12.3-inch touchscreen, depending on the version selected.
Hybrid as standard engine
As for the engine, the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser will be powered exclusively by a hybrid engine, called i-FORCE MAX. It is made up of a 2.4-litre 4-cylinder paired with a 48 horsepower electric motor; total combined power is 326 horsepower and torque is 465 lb-ft. It’s all mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and a permanent 4-wheel drive system with a 2-speed transfer case. As for the fuel consumption ratings for this powertrain, it is still too early, since they have not yet been disclosed.
The Toyota Land Cruiser will offer an interesting towing capacity of 2,722 kilos (6,000 pounds), regardless of the version, thanks to the standard towing package.
The availability
What about the 2024 Land Cruiser price range for Canada? Currently, the manufacturer has not disclosed it. This will be done during the year, as it approaches its market introduction. In terms of availability, it will be assembled in Japan at two of the automaker’s factories, and the first models will arrive in Canada in the spring of 2024.
