The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser: A Reimagined Legend Returns to the USA
In a surprising turn of events, Toyota has revived the iconic Land Cruiser for the USA in 2024, quashing the rumors of its demise. The legendary off-road champion is back with a fresh look and a modern twist. Sharing its platform with the recently redesigned Lexus GX, the Land Cruiser retains its signature boxy appearance but now boasts a turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid powertrain, delivering an impressive 326 horsepower. (For comparison, the Lexus GX sports a 3.4-liter turbo V-6 with 349 hp.) Unlike its predecessor, which was a full-size SUV, the 2024 Land Cruiser is now a size medium contender, ready to take on mainstream off-roaders like the Ford Bronco and the Jeep Wrangler. This shift leaves the full-size SUV market open for Toyota's Sequoia.
What's New for 2024?
The 2024 Land Cruiser returns to the USA with a bold, boxy design and a thoroughly modernized platform. With a focus on hybrid power and a more compact body, it's poised to challenge off-road rivals from Ford and Jeep.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Toyota is making the Land Cruiser more accessible this time around in the USA. While the previous model started at a hefty $87,030, the 2024 version is expected to begin in the mid-$50,000 range. This reduced price is in line with the Land Cruiser's smaller size and five-seat cabin. Although precise pricing details are yet to be revealed, the mid-range Land Cruiser trim is likely to offer the best value for USA buyers, with features like ventilated front seats, a 10-speaker stereo system, a larger 12.3-inch infotainment display, and wider all-terrain tires, among other upgrades.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 2024 Land Cruiser undergoes a significant transformation in the powertrain department for USA buyers. It ditches the traditional V-8 engine for a turbocharged hybrid setup. A 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine works in tandem with two electric motors to produce a robust 326 horsepower. This powertrain is reminiscent of what you'd find in the Toyota Tacoma. All Land Cruiser models come with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel-drive system featuring a locking center differential, low-range gearing, crawl control, and hill descent control. Stay tuned for driving impressions and instrumented test results once we get a chance to take the Land Cruiser for a spin.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
While Toyota hasn't released official fuel economy figures for the 2024 Land Cruiser in the USA, it's expected to offer significantly improved efficiency compared to its V-8 predecessor. We'll conduct a real-world highway fuel economy test at 75 mph when the opportunity arises and update this information accordingly.
Interior
The new Land Cruiser differs from its predecessor by adopting a two-row, five-seat SUV configuration for USA buyers. Toyota has downsized the Land Cruiser to compete with mid-size rivals like the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler, as opposed to the larger Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Expedition. Even the base 1958 trim doesn't skimp on comfort, offering features like heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a six-speaker stereo. Stepping up to the mid-range trim or the limited-production First Edition adds even more luxury, including ventilated seats, a 10-speaker stereo, and optional leather upholstery.
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser in the USA: Release Date, Interior, Price, MPG, and More
In a surprising twist, Toyota has revived the Land Cruiser for the 2024 model year in the USA. This iconic off-road vehicle is back and ready to take on the American market with its modernized features and hybrid powertrain.
Release Date:
The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser is set to arrive in USA dealerships in the spring of 2024.
Interior and Comfort:
The USA version of the Land Cruiser offers a comfortable two-row, five-seat configuration. Even the base 1958 trim comes with heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a six-speaker stereo. For those looking for added luxury, the mid-range trim and the limited-production First Edition provide features like ventilated seats, a 10-speaker stereo system, and optional leather upholstery.
Price:
Toyota is making the Land Cruiser more affordable for USA buyers. While the previous model had a starting price of $87,030, the 2024 version is expected to start in the mid-$50,000 range. This price reduction aligns with the Land Cruiser's smaller size and five-seat cabin. The mid-range Land Cruiser trim is likely to be the best choice for USA consumers, as it includes features like ventilated front seats, a 10-speaker stereo system, a larger 12.3-inch infotainment display, and wider all-terrain tires, among other upgrades.
MPG (Miles Per Gallon):
While official fuel economy figures for the USA version of the 2024 Land Cruiser are not yet available, it's anticipated to offer significantly better efficiency compared to the previous V-8 model. Real-world fuel economy tests will be conducted to provide accurate data.
The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser is back in the USA, ready to honor its legacy while embracing modern technology and design. With a competitive price point, hybrid power, and a focus on off-road capabilities, it aims to win the hearts of American adventure enthusiasts.