2024 Toyota Land Cruiser: The Icon is Back More Affordable Than Ever

Introduction to the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser

The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser marks the return of an off-road icon. After a three-year hiatus in the US market, the new Land Cruiser brings back Toyota’s most legendary nameplate with many updates and improvements.

This article provides an in-depth look at the 2024 Land Cruiser, including exterior and interior design details, performance specs, technology features, capabilities, and more. Read on to learn everything you need to know about Toyota’s all-new Land Cruiser.

2024 Land Cruiser Overview

The 2024 Land Cruiser debuts an all-new platform, smaller exterior dimensions, new powertrain and a more affordable price point compared to previous generations.

Key Highlights:

• All-new TNGA-F platform shared with other Toyota trucks
• Turbocharged hybrid powertrain with 326 hp and 465 lb-ft torque
• Retro-inspired boxy exterior design
• Seating for 5 passengers
• Improved approach, departure and breakover angles
• Available in 3 trim levels: 1958, Land Cruiser and First Edition
• Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 driver-assist technologies standard
• Starting price in the mid $50,000 range

While still a capable and luxurious SUV, the new Land Cruiser shifts focus back to its off-road roots after the very luxurious and expensive outgoing generation. Toyota expects the lower pricing and improved capability to significantly boost sales compared to the slow-selling previous model.

Exterior Design

The 2024 Land Cruiser features an all-new exterior design that combines heritage Land Cruiser styling cues with a more old-school retro vibe.

Retro-Inspired Look

• Short front and rear overhangs
• Boxy profile
• Prominent fender flares
• Skinny overall proportions

The new Land Cruiser has a narrower body and tighter proportions than previous generations. This gives it a tougher, more retro 4×4 look.

Up front, the signature grille design features “TOYOTA” lettering in homage to classic Land Cruisers. Circular headlights also nod to heritage models. The Land Cruiser grade switches to square LED headlights for a more modern appearance.

Improved Off-Road Capability

Despite its slightly smaller footprint, the 2024 Land Cruiser delivers better approach, departure and breakover angles compared to the outgoing model.

• Approach angle: 31 degrees
• Departure angle: 21 degrees
• Breakover angle: 25 degrees

The improved angles allow the new Land Cruiser to tackle rugged terrain and challenging off-road conditions.

Exterior Dimensions

The 2024 Land Cruiser measures 193.7 inches long, 78 inches wide and has a 112.2 inch wheelbase. For comparison, it’s 4.4 inches narrower and 1.2 inches shorter than the previous generation.

Toyota shifted the new Land Cruiser into a smaller midsize platform to better compete against off-road rivals like the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco. It’s slightly longer than a 4Runner but shorter than a Ford Maverick.

Powertrain and Performance

The 2024 Land Cruiser introduces a major change under the hood with a new turbocharged hybrid powertrain. This replaces the traditional V8 engine offered in previous generations.

2.4-Liter Turbo Hybrid

All 2024 Land Cruisers have a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor. Total system output is:

• 326 horsepower
• 465 lb-ft of torque

This new hybrid powertrain provides strong torque delivery at low RPMs, which is ideal for off-road driving.

The electric motor and 1.87 kWh battery are mounted above the rear axle, allowing for a flat cargo floor.

Improved Fuel Economy

Official EPA estimates have not been released yet, but expect a major improvement over the abysmal 13 mpg city/17 mpg highway of the outgoing V8 model. The new hybrid system should significantly boost fuel efficiency.

Towing Capacity

Maximum towing capacity is 6,000 pounds, down from 8,100 pounds on the previous Land Cruiser. The hybrid setup allows for strong low-end torque but reduced overall power output compared to a V8.

Off-Road Hardware

The 2024 Land Cruiser comes well-equipped for rugged terrain right from the factory:

• Full-time 4WD system
• Two-speed transfer case
• Multi-Terrain Select system
• CRAWL control
• Electronic locking rear differential
• Downhill Assist Control

Interior Design and Technology

The 2024 Land Cruiser offers a simplified interior focused more on utility and function than luxury compared to the upscale outgoing model. Available technology includes:

Seating for 5

The new Land Cruiser drops the 8-passenger seating option and is strictly a two-row, 5-passenger SUV. This allowed Toyota to reduce costs and complexity.

Available Leather or Fabric

The base 1958 grade comes with manual cloth seats, while the Land Cruiser and First Edition offer heated Softex synthetic leather as an option. Ventilated front seats are available on higher trims.

Infotainment System

All models get the latest Toyota Audio Multimedia system with either an 8-inch screen on the 1958 or a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen on other trims. The system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

In-Vehicle WiFi

4G connectivity and an AT&T hotspot allow up to 5 devices to get online. This keeps passengers connected while on the go.

JBL Premium Audio

A 14-speaker JBL sound system is optional to replace the standard 10-speaker setup.

Digital Rearview Mirror

A digital rearview mirror displays live video from a rear camera for an unobstructed view behind the vehicle.

Off-Road Capability

While all 2024 Land Cruisers deliver excellent off-road performance, the top trims add equipment and technologies tailored specifically for conquering rough terrain.

Base Off-Road Hardware

Even the entry 1958 model comes equipped with:

• Full-time 4WD
• Two-speed transfer case
• CRAWL control
• Downhill Assist Control
• Electronically locking rear differential

So it’s ready for off-road adventures right from the factory floor.

Improved Articulation

The Land Cruiser and First Edition grades get a front stabilizer bar that can electronically disconnect at the push of a button. This allows for increased front wheel articulation off-road.

All-Terrain Tires

They ride on 265/70R18 tires that feature an aggressive tread pattern compared to the street-oriented tires on the 1958.

Multi-Terrain Select

This system, standard on the Land Cruiser and First Edition, optimizes traction by customizing throttle mapping, traction control, and other parameters for different types of terrain like mud or sand.

Underbody Protection

The First Edition includes additional off-road protection like rock rails, skid plates, and steel bumpers.

Safety Technologies

Cutting-edge driver assistance and accident avoidance technologies are standard in every 2024 Land Cruiser.

Toyota Safety Sense 3.0

This latest version of Toyota’s safety suite includes:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
• Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
• Automatic High Beams
• Road Sign Assist

Blind Spot Monitoring

Blind spot monitors on the side mirrors alert drivers to vehicles in adjacent lanes to prevent accidents when changing lanes.

Rear Cross Traffic Alert

This system detects vehicles approaching from either side when backing up, and then provides a warning to avoid collisions.

10 Airbags

Occupant protection includes 10 standard airbags:

• Dual front airbags
• Front side airbags
• Rear side airbags
• Driver knee airbag
• Front and rear side curtain airbags

Trims and Pricing

The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser is available in 3 trim levels, with pricing starting around $55,000.

Land Cruiser 1958

As a tribute to the first year Land Cruisers were sold in America, the 1958 model features:

• 18-inch wheels
• 8-inch touchscreen
• Fabric seats
• Round LED headlights

Starting Price: Mid $50,000s

Land Cruiser

This mid-level trim adds:

• Softex synthetic leather seats
• 12.3-inch touchscreen
• Multi-terrain select
• 14-speaker JBL audio

Price: TBD

First Edition

Special launch edition with:

• Exclusive exterior colors
• Leather seats
• Additional off-road protection
• Limited to 5,000 units

Price: TBD

Performance and Fuel Economy Ratings

Full ratings for acceleration, braking, handling, and fuel efficiency will be released closer to the on-sale date. Expect significantly improved fuel economy over the 13/17 mpg city/highway rating of the old V8.

Once full testing is completed, stay tuned for official 0-60 mph acceleration and quarter-mile performance numbers. The turbocharged hybrid powertrain should deliver quicker acceleration and performance than the outgoing V8 thanks to instant electric torque.

Expert Reviews and Road Tests

Professional automotive reviewers are excited to get behind the wheel of the reborn 2024 Land Cruiser and put it through its paces, both on- and off-road.

Positive Early Reviews

Early impressions of the new Land Cruiser highlight its improved affordability, classic style, and enhanced capability. Toyota managed to keep its go-anywhere credibility while reaching a wider audience.

Reviewers view this pivot back to 4×4 basics in a positive light. It allows the Land Cruiser nameplate to return to its roots.

Areas of Improvement

Potential downsides focus on the reduced interior luxury and towing capacity compared to the very pricey outgoing generation. The Land Cruiser is now clearly positioned as an off-roader first and a family hauler second.

Some worry the new hybrid powertrain won’t match the smooth power delivery of the traditional V8. Its capability for rigorous towing and extreme off-roading remains unproven.

Full Reviews Coming

Expect huge interest and press coverage around the 2024 Land Cruiser. Full reviews will detail how the new model stacks up to main rivals like the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, Ford Bronco Wildtrak, and Ram 1500 TRX.

Off-road experts can’t wait to push the redesigned Land Cruiser to its limits on rugged terrain and report back on exactly how capable it is versus competitors.

Stay tuned for hands-on driving analysis and instrumented test results as soon as Toyota provides review vehicles for evaluation.

Comparing the 2024 Land Cruiser to the Outgoing 200 Series Model

The 2024 Land Cruiser marks a major departure from the previous generation 200 Series model last sold for the 2021 model year. Here’s how the two compare.

Exterior Design

• All-new platform
• Shorter and narrower exterior
• Boxy proportions with short overhangs
• Improved approach/departure angles

While both generations are uniquely Land Cruisers, the crisp new exterior design has more vintage charm than the larger, softer 200 Series shape.

Performance and Capability

• Turbocharged hybrid powertrain replacing V8
• Less overall power but more torque
• Lower tow rating: 6,000 lbs vs. 8,100 lbs
• New off-road technologies

The new hybrid brings improved efficiency but reduced capability compared to the powerful V8. More high-tech off-road aids somewhat offset the lower power and towing.

Interior and Technology

• Seats up to 5 instead of 8
• Less luxurious cabin materials
• Added modern infotainment tech
• Standard advanced safety features

Today’s Land Cruiser goes more back-to-basics with its interior design, sacrificing luxury to keep pricing down. The latest tech features compensate somewhat for fewer premium materials.

Pricing

• Starts mid $50,000s
• About $30,000 cheaper than the outgoing model

Compared to the $80,000+ previous Land Cruiser, the huge price cut allows for a much broader appeal. But you lose some luxury and performance in exchange for the lower pricing.

How the 2024 Land Cruiser Compares to Key Rivals

The new Land Cruiser occupies an interesting space between mainstream and luxury off-road SUVs. Here’s how it stacks up against key competitors.

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon

The venerable Wrangler focuses purely on maximum 4×4 capability at the expense of on-road drivability and comfort. Starting around $45,000, it’s cheaper than the Land Cruiser but falls short on creature comforts and features.

Ford Bronco Wildtrak

Slotting in right around $55,000, the Bronco Wildtrak is probably the Land Cruiser’s closest rival. It offers similar on- and off-road performance but trailing arm rear suspension instead of a solid axle. Interior space is tight.

Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro

A longtime partner to the Land Cruiser, the 4Runner costs thousands less but isn’t quite as refined or luxurious and lacks the hybrid powertrain. The 4Runner remains an excellent value 4×4 but can’t match the Cruiser’s comfort and driving dynamics.

Lexus GX

As its luxury cousin, the aging GX has a plusher interior but suffers from inferior on-road handling and comfort compared to the new Land Cruiser. It’s focused more on ruggedness than sophistication. Pricing starts at around $55,000 fully loaded.

Land Rover Defender

The iconic British 4×4 nails the upscale side of off-roading that the Land Cruiser moves away from for 2024. Starting around $70,000, the Defender has unbeatable brand cachet but its reliability reputation lags Toyota.

Customer Demographics

Historically, the Land Cruiser customer base included two main groups:

Affluent Suburban Families

Those appreciating its luxury, space, and capability as safe family transport for school runs and vacations. The 200 Series catered heavily to this demographic.

Off-Road Enthusiasts

Hardcore 4×4 fans who took the Land Cruiser to its limits exploring remote areas. Less prominent among 200 Series buyers.

With its repositioning, expect the 2024 Land Cruiser to skew more toward adventurous off-roaders looking for tough, go-anywhere utility over luxury creature comforts. It gives up some suburban family appeal for increased credibility with 4×4 enthusiasts.

The lower pricing also brings younger buyers into the mix by making the Cruiser more accessible. Students of the model’s heritage are drawn to its renowned durability and new retro-inspired look.

Marketing and Advertising Campaign

Toyota will market the 2024 Land Cruiser as a return to form, combining modern refinement with old-school off-road grit.

Print and Online Ads

Magazine ads and digital banners highlight the Land Cruiser conquering rugged terrain in remote areas away from civilization. Toyota emphasizes its off-grid adventure capabilities.

Social Media

Viral videos on YouTube and Instagram showcase the new Cruiser powering through mud, crawling over rocks, and climbing steep grades that leave other SUVs behind. Toyota seeds vehicles with key influencers.

Off-Road Events

Toyota gives potential buyers firsthand experience with the Land Cruiser’s capabilities on extreme terrain by providing demonstration drives at major off-road festivals and competitions.

Toyota’s reliability and durability remain a key message as that reputation is a

prime reason for the model’s icon status. Ads portray the Land Cruiser thriving in punishing environments that break lesser vehicles.

Overall the campaign aims to back up the model’s go-anywhere credentials. This heritage defines the nameplate and sets it apart from crossovers marketed more as family vehicles.

Conclusion

The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser’s return to the US brings back one of the most venerated SUV nameplates in off-roading history. This redesign successfully reinvents the Land Cruiser formula for a new generation.

It blends classic design and enhanced capability with modern comfort and technology features. On-road manners also improve, thanks to an all-new platform and hybrid powertrain.

While no longer priced as an ultra-luxury flagship, the new Land Cruiser extends its adventure-ready credentials with improved articulation and traction aids. Traditional body-on-frame SUV strengths like durability and reliability carry forward.

The 2024 Land Cruiser sets the stage for another 40+ years of off-road dominance by bridging old-school ruggedness with contemporary refinement. Its renewed focus strikes the right balance between heritage and progress.

Toyota loyalists missed having a Land Cruiser option these past few years. Now they finally have something worthy of this iconic badge returning to showrooms. Get ready to conquer those remote trails again!