Toyota time machine
Toyota this week unveiled a brand new, fifth- generation Land Cruiser that blends retro looks with modern upmarket refinement. UK pre-sales begin in autumn with first deliveries expected early next year, including a limited run of 3,000 First Edition models with classic round headlights and special bi-tone exterior paintwork finishes of Sand and Smoky Blue.
No prices have been announced but they are expected to start from around £50,000.
toyota says the new model focuses on its traditional strengths of quality, durability and reliability to tackle the toughest conditions and ‘combines Land Cruiser’s legendary DNa with new technologies to deliver exceptional performance on and off-road’.
Based on a new platform, it will respond, handle, ride and manoeuvre better, with toyota noting: ‘It draws directly on the original qualities’ of the original 1950s model.
With a choice of five or seven seats, it is powered by a 201 bhp 2.8-litre turbocharged four- cylinder diesel engine linked to a new eight- speed direct shift automatic transmission for ‘optimal balance of fuel efficiency and performance’ and can tow loads of up to 3,500kg.
an electrified version with 48-volt mild hybrid technology follows in early 2025.
It is also the first Land Cruiser to adopt electric power steering which reduces the amount of ‘kickback’ when driving over rough surfaces and provides smoother, more direct steering and easier manoeuvrability at all speeds.
Its instrument panel and switches are shaped for easy operation in challenging terrain and there is improved allround visibility with deeper side windows. Updated safety and assistance features aim to aid and protect the driver and occupants.
the new model, codenamed J250, replaces the current one after 14 years. It follows the larger Land Cruiser 300 which is not sold in the UK.
the new chassis frame is 50 per cent more rigid and combined body and frame rigidity is 30 per cent greater.