2024 Toyota Land Cruiser: Retro Design Meets Modern Off-Road Capability – Is It Worth the Hype?

The current landscape of off-road SUVs is heavily influenced by nostalgia. You only need to glance at the popularity of Jeep and Bronco to see the trend. Toyota is acutely aware of this phenomenon, which is why they have reintroduced the Land Cruiser for 2024, boasting a retro aesthetic, locking differentials, and hybrid powertrain. While the Land Cruiser’s hiatus was always expected to be temporary, capitalizing on the retro 4×4 craze is a shrewd business move, as nostalgia is undeniably a key selling point in today’s market.

Now, while it might sound like a harsh assessment of the new Land Cruiser, it’s important to clarify that it’s not a subpar vehicle. However, in a market where emotional connection and the overall “feel” of a vehicle are significant drivers for purchase decisions, it’s debatable whether this particular model will resonate as the top choice. Considering the test model’s MSRP of $71,809 – even exceeding the Lexus GX I recently reviewed – questions arise about why a buyer would opt for the Toyota.

Front three-quarter view of the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser, highlighting its boxy retro design and modern features.

The likely counter-argument is simply, “Because it’s a Land Cruiser.” However, brand recognition alone shouldn’t suffice. Although the new hybrid J250 carries the iconic Land Cruiser name, deeply rooted in off-roading heritage, it’s undeniable that it shares its foundations with the more modest Prado. These Prado origins become increasingly apparent in the higher-priced trims, making the Lexus GX a consistently more appealing option for the discerning buyer in this price range.

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser: The Basics

Toyota’s extensive U.S. lineup includes a vast array of crossovers and SUVs, positioning the Land Cruiser as just one among many. Among Toyota’s five body-on-frame vehicles (Tundra, Tacoma, Sequoia, 4Runner, and Land Cruiser), all will transition to the TNGA-F architecture by 2025. This is before even considering the Lexus GX and LX. The crucial point is that the 2024 Land Cruiser faces an uphill battle to distinguish itself within Toyota’s own portfolio, let alone the broader SUV market.

Rear three-quarter view of the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser emphasizing its boxy shape and taillight design.

The 2024 Land Cruiser does possess a distinctive look. Prospective buyers can choose between two front-end styles: round headlights for the base 1958 trim and rectangular headlights on higher trims. The two-tone paint option with a white roof further enhances its visual appeal. The boxy design is generally attractive, particularly from the rear, though it would benefit from a higher stance and larger tires to truly maximize its rugged aesthetic. Fortunately, tire upgrades are typically among the first modifications Land Cruiser owners undertake.

Close-up of the rectangular headlights on the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser, illustrating its modern lighting technology.

The interior of the 2024 Land Cruiser presents a mixed experience. A digital gauge cluster is standard across all trims. While the base 1958 model includes an eight-inch infotainment screen, higher trims are upgraded to a 12.3-inch display. However, lower trims come with a basic six-speaker sound system. The Premium Package, costing an additional $4,600, enhances the audio experience with a 14-speaker JBL Premium Audio system, among other upgrades, though not all buyers may find this necessary. Regardless of trim, the Land Cruiser comfortably accommodates four adults, and families with children can fit up to five. Despite cupholders and USB-C ports in the cargo area suggesting otherwise, a third-row option is not available for the 2024 Land Cruiser.

Close-up of the center console and gear shifter in the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser interior.

Close-up of the door panel and interior materials in the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser.

The standard 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder hybrid powertrain sounds advanced and boasts impressive figures: 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. However, its tuning prioritizes smooth power delivery over outright performance feel. The eight-speed automatic transmission seamlessly distributes power to all four wheels, ensuring composed progress without any dramatic flair.

Driving Dynamics of the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser

Settling into the driver’s seat of the 2024 Land Cruiser, it’s immediately apparent that it lacks the robust, tank-like feel of the 200 Series Land Cruiser. The door closure lacks the solid “thunk” of its predecessor, and while the switchgear appears more refined, it feels less substantial. This sentiment extends to many aspects of the SUV: aesthetically pleasing but lacking the premium solidity historically associated with the Land Cruiser nameplate.

Consider the hybrid drivetrain; despite the abundant torque figures, it doesn’t translate to an exhilarating driving experience. The electrified 2.4-liter turbo engine itself isn’t inherently dull – it proves quite engaging in the Tacoma TRD Pro. However, in the Land Cruiser, the overall driving dynamics are deliberately muted, seemingly calibrated to maintain a distinction from the 4Runner within Toyota’s lineup.

Side view of the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser driving on an off-road trail, showcasing its suspension articulation.

This isn’t to say the 2024 Land Cruiser is devoid of appeal for enthusiasts. The test vehicle included a push-button sway bar disconnect, Multi-Terrain Select for optimized traction management, and Crawl Control for challenging terrains. The 360-degree camera system, a crucial feature for modern 4x4s, provides comprehensive visibility around the vehicle. These features contribute to making the Land Cruiser arguably more proficient off-road than on paved roads.

However, Toyota’s design focus wasn’t on creating a high-performance SUV. The 2024 Land Cruiser offers 8.7 inches of ground clearance, slightly less than the already modest clearance of the Lexus GX. Its minimal overhangs are advantageous, providing a 31-degree maximum approach angle compared to the GX’s 26 degrees. This proved beneficial when tackling a steep gravel incline, minimizing scraping.

Front view of the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser climbing a gravel hill, demonstrating its approach angle.

However, the Land Cruiser’s undercarriage did scrape upon cresting the hill. Its breakover angle of 22 degrees is less favorable than the GX’s 24 degrees, although the departure angle is slightly superior at 25 degrees compared to the Lexus’s 22 degrees.

The 2024 Land Cruiser excels in low-speed, technical off-road situations, which is where it’s most enjoyable to drive. Extending the electric-only driving mode duration would enhance the experience, as the engine engages quickly with a somewhat uninspired sound, more noticeable through the firewall than the exhaust.

Front view of the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser driving through a shallow stream, highlighting its water fording capability.

On open roads, the 2024 Land Cruiser struggles to justify its $70,000 price tag. Even the base model, in its stripped-down configuration, feels questionable as a $58,000 vehicle. It lacks any endearing quirks, like heavy steering or turbo lag; instead, it simply feels unengaging.

The prior week’s experience with the Lexus GX amplified the Land Cruiser’s shortcomings. Back-to-back drives highlighted the disparities: the Land Cruiser is less capable off-road, lacking the GX’s advanced E-KDSS; less engaging on-road due to its subdued hybrid powertrain and uninspiring driving dynamics; and less luxurious inside, despite the top trim exceeding the GX Overtrail in price.

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser: Highs and Lows

A consensus among Land Cruiser drivers is its respectable off-road performance in its stock form. It confidently tackles inclines, aided by full-time 4WD and a locking rear differential. While the torque delivery isn’t overtly felt, it’s readily available, particularly at lower speeds. Immediate aftermarket upgrades aren’t essential for trail-ready performance, as should be expected of a Land Cruiser.

Front view of the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser parked on a rocky trail, emphasizing its off-road ready design.

However, it’s difficult to view the 2024 Land Cruiser as a true successor to the 200 Series. It diverges significantly from the attributes that defined that generation. If marketed as a “Land Cruiser Lite” or similar, it would be more palatable. As it stands, it lacks the robust and sturdy character of its predecessors. Furthermore, emerging reports of water leaks and engine issues raise concerns about its long-term durability.

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser: Features, Options, and Competition

Significant differences exist between the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser’s two trims: the 1958 and the “Land Cruiser.” The 1958 trim offers a more basic cabin with cloth seats and a smaller screen, while the higher “Land Cruiser” trim features richer cocoa SofTex upholstery and enhanced technology. However, factory options beyond dealer-installed accessories like rock rails and floor mats are limited.

The Premium Package, available on the top-tier Land Cruiser trim for $4,600, represents the most substantial upgrade. It includes the 14-speaker JBL Premium Audio system, illuminated entry, power moonroof, refrigerated center console, digital rearview mirror, wireless charger, head-up display, and advanced safety features like lane change assist and front cross-traffic alert. Optional 20-inch alloy wheels are also available for $1,240 for those seeking larger wheels on their off-roader.

Front three-quarter view of the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser highlighting its wheel design and premium trim features.

The 2024 Land Cruiser’s competitive landscape is somewhat ambiguous. It doesn’t directly align with hardcore 4x4s like the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco, nor does it reach the luxury level of a Land Rover Defender. It shares the closest ethos with its stablemate, the 4Runner, though Toyota positions them differently. Classifying it as a midsize SUV puts it against vehicles like the Kia Telluride and Mazda CX-90, which feels inaccurate. The 2024 Land Cruiser carves out a unique niche, especially with its starting price near $58,000.

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser: Fuel Economy

The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser achieves significantly better fuel economy than its Lexus GX platform-mate with a twin-turbo V6. The Lexus’s 17 mpg combined rating is notably inefficient. The Land Cruiser also outperforms the standard Ford Bronco, likely due to its hybrid system. However, the Mazda CX-90 with its mild-hybrid, turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six surpasses the Land Cruiser in fuel efficiency.

Value and Verdict: Is the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser Worth Buying?

Despite wanting to embrace the new Land Cruiser and endorse it as a worthy Toyota 4×4, it’s challenging to do so. It’s difficult to recommend it when the Lexus GX offers a superior package for a comparable price.

Moreover, the 2024 Land Cruiser’s attempt to succeed the V8-powered 200 Series feels misjudged. It’s almost disrespectful to suggest this new model is a direct replacement. While the previous Land Cruiser wasn’t flawless, drastically reducing the cylinder count, incorporating a battery and electric motor, and compromising on overall robustness while claiming it’s the same vehicle is a flawed proposition. It’s a different vehicle altogether, and for many, not a desirable one. Unless there’s a missed perspective, it’s hard to see why this 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser would be a preferred choice over its alternatives.