How do you redefine “ultimate”? For the Toyota Land Cruiser, a vehicle synonymous with supreme capability and luxury, 2016 marked a significant step in enhancing its already esteemed reputation. The 2016 Toyota Land Cruiser underwent a comprehensive transformation, showcasing not only a refreshed exterior and interior but also integrating cutting-edge safety technologies, a revamped drivetrain, and sophisticated multimedia enhancements. This evolution solidified its position as more than just a visually updated model, delving deep into the essence of what makes a truly exceptional SUV.
Since 1957, Toyota Land Cruiser models have been a constant presence in the United States market. Over these decades, the Land Cruiser’s journey has been remarkable, transitioning from a purely functional, go-anywhere vehicle to a paragon of luxury within the full-capability SUV segment. Land Cruiser owners are known for their unwavering loyalty, drawn to its blend of ultimate capability and luxury, all while embodying Toyota’s renowned reliability and understated elegance.
The 2016 Land Cruiser introduces a redesigned body from the A-pillar forward, presenting a fresh and commanding aesthetic. This iconic vehicle’s new face is defined by a restyled bumper, a bold grille, and projector-beam LED headlights for both low and high beams, complemented by headlight cleaners and an integrated Land Cruiser logo. The hood’s powerful bulges hint at the robust 381-horsepower V8 engine beneath. For 2016, this powerhouse is paired with Toyota’s first 8-speed automatic transmission, significantly improving acceleration and responsiveness.
The rear of the Land Cruiser also receives a distinctive update, featuring new taillights with a striking light-tube design and LED brake lights. A full-width chrome molding and a redesigned bumper further refine its rear profile. The Land Cruiser’s robust stance is accentuated by a chrome body side molding embossed with the Land Cruiser logo and newly designed 18-inch alloy wheels. Maintaining its commitment to comprehensive value, the 2016 Toyota Land Cruiser is offered in a single, fully-equipped version with seating for eight, eliminating the need for factory options.
Inside, the 2016 Land Cruiser elevates its luxury quotient with new semi-aniline perforated leather upholstery, available in black or a new Terra (brown) hue. Both black and Terra interiors are elegantly accented with Deep Wood trim. High-quality materials are seamlessly integrated into a redesigned center console, which offers a more unified appearance and enhanced intuitive control layout.
The Land Cruiser’s Entune system is upgraded with Siri® Eyes Free mode, offering enhanced connectivity and performance. When paired with an iPhone, drivers can effortlessly activate Siri by pressing a steering wheel button and using voice commands. Adding to the convenience, new Qi wireless phone charging for compatible devices reduces cable clutter.
The luxurious steering wheel, retaining its heating function, now integrates controls for the multi-information display, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and the new Toyota Safety Sense-P system.
New Driver Assist Technologies
A landmark addition for the 2016 Toyota Land Cruiser is the introduction of advanced safety technology aimed at preventing or mitigating collisions, and even providing pedestrian protection in certain scenarios. The Toyota Safety Sense-P system encompasses Frontal Collision Avoidance (operational below 24 mph with pedestrian detection), Frontal Collision Mitigation (also effective below 24 mph), Lane Departure Alert, Auto High Beams, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
Further enhancing driver awareness, the 2016 Land Cruiser incorporates a Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, assisting drivers in avoiding potential hazards. These driver-assist systems are standard across all models. A standard backup camera also enhances safety and simplifies trailer hitching.
An Engine Engineered for Unrivaled Power
Power is never a question with the Land Cruiser. Its 381-horsepower 5.7-liter DOHC V8 engine, equipped with Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), delivers 401 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,600 rpm. Crucially, 90 percent of this peak torque is available from just 2,200 rpm, ensuring robust performance in diverse driving conditions and making it exceptionally capable for towing. The new 8-speed automatic transmission for 2016, replacing the previous 6-speed unit, provides a wider ratio spread for improved acceleration and enhanced fuel efficiency. For situations demanding greater control, drivers can opt for manual shift mode. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 13 mpg city, 18 mpg highway, and 15 mpg combined.
The Land Cruiser’s towing prowess is significant, with a standard Trailer Towing Package enabling it to tow up to 8,100 pounds. Comprehensive towing hardware, including an engine oil cooler, connector, and sub-wiring harness for a trailer-brake controller, is included. Trailer Sway Control, utilizing the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), minimizes trailer sway for a more stable towing experience.
Built Tough for the Toughest Terrains
The Land Cruiser’s refined ride and luxurious cabin are underpinned by a rugged body-on-frame construction. This solid foundation, contributing to its reassuringly robust feel, is built with extensive use of high-strength steel, particularly in critical areas like the A-, B-, C-, and D-pillars and rocker panels.
Offering sedan-like comfort for daily driving, the Land Cruiser is equally adept at conquering off-road trails, making remote destinations more accessible. Its suspension system is engineered to balance off-road capability with advanced control technology. Long wheel travel is key to the Land Cruiser’s off-pavement aptitude, facilitating superior suspension articulation.
The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) is a standout feature, hydraulically adjusting the stabilizer bars’ lean resistance. Off-road, KDSS reduces resistance to maximize wheel articulation and minimize wheel lift. On paved roads, KDSS functions conventionally to reduce body lean by up to 50 percent, enhancing agility and control. The system operates hydraulically, eliminating the need for complex electronics. Approach and departure angles of 30 and 20 degrees, respectively, ensure confident off-road maneuverability. Underbody panels provide crucial protection for the engine and transmission when navigating rocky terrain.
Full-Time 4WD and Advanced Control Systems
A capable four-wheel-drive system is essential for a full-capability SUV, and the Land Cruiser’s full-time 4WD system is exceptionally advanced. It uses a TORSEN® limited-slip locking center differential to distribute torque 40:60 front-to-rear, adjusting dynamically to send more torque to wheels with better grip when slippage occurs. Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) uses both brake and throttle intervention to manage wheel spin. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), with a cut-off switch, aids in maintaining directional stability during cornering.
A 2-speed transfer case with low range is indispensable for challenging terrain, and the Land Cruiser includes this vital feature. The Multi-terrain Select system further enhances off-road performance by allowing drivers to tailor wheel slip control to different surfaces and conditions.
Multi-terrain Select offers increased wheel slip in loose conditions like mud and sand, maintaining momentum without digging in. The Mogul setting minimizes wheel slip for extremely uneven terrain, acting like a limited-slip differential.
The enhanced Multi-Terrain Monitor provides selectable front, side, or rear views with near 360-degree visibility, including a five-second projected path video playback of the front undercarriage.
CRAWL Control, activated in low range, regulates engine speed and braking force to maintain one of five driver-selectable low-speed settings, allowing focus on steering over challenging terrain. Downhill Assist Control (DAC) and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) further aid in steep inclines and descents.
Off-Road Turn Assist tightens the turning radius in off-road conditions by applying brake pressure to the inside rear wheel, improving maneuverability on narrow trails. Large P285/60 R18 mud-and-snow tires on 18 x 8.0-inch aluminum alloy wheels deliver excellent grip in all conditions. A full-size spare tire and a direct tire pressure monitoring system, including the spare, are standard.
These advanced 4WD and chassis control technologies also enhance everyday driving safety in slippery conditions.
Uncompromising Luxury as Standard
Luxury in the Land Cruiser is not an add-on; it’s the standard. The only decision for customers is color choice, as the Land Cruiser comes fully equipped with premium luxury features. The extensive list of standard amenities includes perforated leather trim, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel with power tilt and telescoping with memory, Smart Key keyless entry with push-button start, an anti-theft security system with engine immobilizer, a power moonroof, auto-dimming mirrors, HomeLink® universal garage door opener, and much more.
The four-zone automatic climate control system ensures comfort for all occupants, with 28 air vents and a micro-dust and pollen filter for clean air. An auxiliary Positive Temperature Coefficient heater provides rapid cabin warming in cold weather. The driver is presented with Optitron instrument gauges and a Multi-Information Display showing vital vehicle data. The redesigned center console includes a cooler box, USB port, and cup holders.
Luxury extends to all three rows, with perforated leather-trimmed middle row seats featuring multi-stage heating and abrasion-resistant seatbacks. The 40/20/20 split middle row seats recline, slide, and feature a one-touch tumble mechanism for third-row access. The 50/50 split fold-down third-row seats accommodate three passengers and offer 81.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third rows folded.
JBL® Synthesis Premium Audio with Entune®
The Land Cruiser features the Entune Premium JBL® Audio system with Integrated Navigation, delivering concert-hall quality sound through 14 speakers, including a subwoofer, controlled via a new nine-inch touch screen.
Split-screen capability allows simultaneous display of navigation and audio screens. Music sources include AM/FM CD, SiriusXM®, HD Radio™, USB with iPod® connectivity, and Bluetooth® streaming. Advanced voice recognition and the Toyota Entune App Suite offer further connectivity and convenience.
Rear passengers enjoy a rear-seat DVD entertainment system with dual 11.6-inch monitors and HDMI input.
Star Safety and ToyotaCare
Toyota’s Safety Connect™ provides peace of mind with Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Location, Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), and enhanced Roadside Assistance, with one year of complimentary service included.
The STAR Safety System™ encompasses a suite of technologies, including multi-terrain ABS, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), and more. Ten airbags, active headrests, and an advanced seatbelt system further enhance safety. A standard parking sonar system assists in maneuvering.
Limited Warranty and ToyotaCare
The 2016 Land Cruiser is backed by Toyota’s 36-month/36,000-mile basic warranty, a 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and a 60-month corrosion warranty with unlimited mileage. ToyotaCare, a complimentary plan, covers scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles.
