Toyota has officially revealed the highly anticipated 2024 Land Cruiser, showcasing its commitment to the iconic nameplate’s legacy. Off-road enthusiasts can now rejoice, as the new Land Cruiser offers an affordable option to embark on backcountry adventures without having to wait for used high-mileage models to become accessible. Toyota has engineered a clean break from the Land Cruiser’s previous trajectory, making it more affordable and accessible to a wider audience.
2024 Land Cruiser Price
While Toyota hasn’t disclosed all the details, the starting price for the new Land Cruiser is expected to be in the “mid-$50,000 range,” a significant contrast to the discontinued 2021 Land Cruiser, which had a minimum entry cost of $87,030. With this price adjustment, Toyota anticipates a substantial increase in sales compared to the modest 3000 to 4000 units sold annually over the past decade. The automaker plans to sell all 5000 examples of the First Edition within the first three months, a feat not achieved since 2004.
What Type of Land Cruiser Is This?
The new Land Cruiser is technically a 250-series in Toyota’s geek-speak, bridging the gap between the smaller 200-series Cruiser that left the scene in 2021 and the pure-300 Lexus LX600. The new model shares similar dimensions with the old 200, boasting an overall width of 78.0 inches and being only 0.8 inches shorter and 1.2 inches stubbier front to back. However, the 2024 Land Cruiser’s narrower body, grille, and greenhouse with prominent fender flares give it a more rugged appearance. Despite the narrower body, the interior feels generously spacious, providing a comfortable and right-sized cabin.
Better MPG with a smaller hybrid powertrain
All 2024 Land Cruisers will feature the same 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid iForce Max powertrain and eight-speed transmission found in the high-end Tacoma models, particularly the TRD Pro. This powertrain may produce a slightly lower output of 326 combined horsepower compared to the old 5.7-liter V-8’s 381 horsepower, but it excels with a powerful combined torque of 465 pound-feet, which is superior to the old model’s 401 pound-feet. The iForce generates peak torque at just 1700 rpm, making it especially effective off-road. The new Land Cruiser has a respectable towing capacity of 6000 pounds.
Fuel economy estimates have not been released yet, but significant improvements are expected compared to the 2021 Land Cruiser’s meager 14 mpg combined. The new hybrid Cruiser is likely to surpass the larger LX600’s 19 mpg combined.
2024 Land Cruiser Hardware
The 2024 Cruiser retains the full-time four-wheel-drive blueprint of the previous model, with a two-speed transfer case, a Torsen center differential, push-button-lock rear differentials, Crawl Control, and Downhill Assist Control. The suspension concept remains similar, featuring dual control-arm independent front suspension and a solid rear axle located by four trailing links and a Panhard rod. However, the new 2024 Land Cruiser foregoes the KDSS system, opting for cost-containment in favor of the new TNGA-F architecture.
2024 Land Cruiser Grades
The base model, named 1958, caters to those who won’t venture off-road frequently but still appeals to enthusiasts who want to customize their suspension and tires. It features skinnier 245/70R-18 32-inch tires and fixed anti-roll bars. In contrast, the 2024 Land Cruiser and First Edition models offer 265/70R-18 33-inch tires with more aggressive tread, a disconnectable front anti-roll bar, and a Multi-Terrain Select system for optimized traction control in various conditions. The First Edition model boasts additional features like rock rails, a roof rack, and skid plates.
Verdict
The 2024 Land Cruiser may have downsized, but it impresses with its rugged appearance, spacious interior, and upgraded hybrid powertrain. Toyota’s decision to make it a five-passenger vehicle brings cost savings and enhances its off-road capabilities. While the new Land Cruiser has a lot to offer, the true test of its drivability and performance will be experienced once it hits the roads. As we eagerly await its arrival, one thing is certain: the Land Cruiser’s enduring legacy will continue with this impressive new model.
