Toyota’s top SUV gets more power

As the pinnacle of the Land Cruiser family, the Land Cruiser 200 offers outstanding quality, durability and reliability, as well as excellent off-road performance and enveloping luxury and comfort.

For 2017, the 200-series receives an injection of power, bolstering its credentials.

As before, the Land Cruiser 200 is powered by a robust 4.5 litre, 32-valve DOHC, 8-cylinder turbodiesel engine in a V-configuration. A broad torque band is a hallmark of this powerplant, offering superb off-roading ability.

Paying attention to the numbers, it sees an increase of 22 kilowatts to 195kW, delivered at 3 400 rpm. The tractive force is also boosted by 35 newton meters to 650, available between 1 600 and 2 600 rpm.

A six-speed automatic transmission transmits the power to all four wheels, via a low-range equipped transfer case.

The engine isn’t the only facet of the LC200 where enhancements have been made; as the convenience specification list is also expanded. Two grades are available, the utility focused GX and sumptuous VX – now renamed to VX-R.

GX models receive roof rails, centre console housed coolbox, rear tonneau cover and rear park distance control. VX-R versions also inherit roof rails and auto-folding power exterior mirrors, while an integrated tow hitch now completes the VX-R package.