Long awaited Toyota Land Cruiser 300 fully revealed
TOYOTA has finally released full details about the long-awaited Toyota Land Cruiser 300, set to replace the LC 200 as the brand’s flagship SUV.
The LC 300 retains the tough ladder frame construction that has been a hallmark of its predecessors, but sheds a bit of weight to help achieve Toyota’s target of 10% lower CO2 emissions.
And, as was rumoured, the LC 300 also ushers in Toyota's all-new 3.3-litre V6 twin-turbo diesel engine, which produces 227kW and 700Nm. This engine is mated to a new 10-speed automatic gearbox.
Toyota announced it will offer a normally-aspirated V6 petrol in some markets, paired with a six-speed automatic.
Other upgrades include a re-designed suspension system which is said to offer even better wheel articulation for off the beaten track.
Luxury off-roaders are also assisted by a Multi-terrain Select system which automatically selects the best driving mode for the conditions at hand. Another tech highlight is the Multi-terrain Monitor which displays obstacles hidden in front of the vehicle.
There are also plenty of gizmos to keep occupants safe, including an emergency steering and crash avoidance function, as well as a pre-collision system that detects cyclists, pedestrians and oncoming vehicles at intersections.
Inside, the Land Cruiser 300’s cabin looks a lot more modern than its predecessor, but Toyota has avoided the temptation to pack the dashboard full of screens – there is a high-mounted central infotainment touchscreen, but the instruments remain analogue.
Toyota is offering two rather different styling themes. The new GR Sport's model is distinguished by mostly black trimmings and Toyota block lettering on the grille, while other models feature a grey grille with horizontal slats and chrome trim on the mirrors and fog light housings.
When will it reach South Africa?
Local Cruiser fanatics won’t have to wait long to get behind the wheel of the Land Cruiser 300 as it’s due to be launched locally at the beginning of August.