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The Toyota Land Cruiser has been in continuous production since 1951 and has since become almost its own sub-brand within the Toyota Group, with a sometimes confusing model family. The massive 300 series is only available in the US, Asia and the Middle East. The rustic 70 series is aimed at markets such as Africa and travels there as an indestructible bush taxi. The 250 series is offered in Europe, among other places; However, in some markets it is not as a Land Cruiser but as a Prado. And the same Toyota Land Cruiser 250 is launching a new version with us this fall.
Even though the Landcruiser 250 was the only mid-size model in the family, the Japanese continued to make it bigger. That’s okay, because the five-door model is technically based on the larger 300’s platform. Compared to the previous model, the new Land Cruiser is ten centimeters longer (L/W/H = 4.93/1.98/1.94 m), six centimeters due to the increased wheelbase. Surprising: The Land Cruiser doesn’t look like a giant, though.
Its hard shell with sharp edges is currently in trend and is reminiscent of previous generations. The First Edition has a full dose of retro, highlighted by a distinctive radiator grille and round headlights. However, the first edition of 3,000 copies were almost sold out worldwide. Round headlights will also be offered as an option in the medium term.
modern cockpit
Not only the exterior but also the interior deserves praise. Although the digital instrument panel and 12.3-inch touch screen are not a revolution, they take the Land Cruiser to a contemporary level. For the first time, there is a central controller for the driving modes. However, the angled dashboard and steering wheel design are reminiscent of the 1980s and look standalone. The Land Cruiser goes with the flow best when it comes to support and comfort. Many things are available for the first time; at least in the Land Cruiser.
Surprising: Even though we drove in a pre-production vehicle, there are no squeaks, rattles or rumbles, even over the worst bumpy roads or the worst ground faults. The increase in length offers space for a third row of seats and a significantly larger boot. More than 1000 liters of volume fit in the back when all the rear seats are folded.
More comfort on the road
Progress is most evident on asphalt. There’s a good friend under the hood: a 2.8-litre four-cylinder diesel with 204 hp (150 kW) and 500 Nm, which has already done its job in the previous model and currently in the Hilux. But the by now outdated six-speed automatic transmission acted as a brake on the fun; Now the new, standard eight-speed automatic transmission provides faster driving.
Above all, Land Cruiser means unhindered off-road progress. Although lead developer Keita Moritsu praises the changes in driving behavior and road comfort, he makes it clear: “We were not allowed to undermine the Land Cruiser’s off-road capability.”
master of the field
In fact, off-road driving is still his forte. Technically, 4×4 as standard, reduction gearing, lockable rear axle and electronic multi-terrain driving modes lead the way – in terms of styling, there’s good ground clearance and a short front overhang for a good approach angle of 31 degrees.
The overall package provides effortlessness: pushing forward calmly in deep mud, soft sand, water and even snow. Still, Moritsu-san: We feel the biggest progress on the asphalt.
There is no official tariff yet, but we estimate a good tariff of over 65,000 francs for the new Land Cruiser. The current five-door model costs 60,000 francs.
Source: Blick
I’m Ella Sammie, author specializing in the Technology sector. I have been writing for 24 Instatnt News since 2020, and am passionate about staying up to date with the latest developments in this ever-changing industry.
