Land Cruiser

Make
Toyota
Segment
SUV

We knew it was coming based on numerous leaks, but now the next-generation 2022 Toyota Land Cruiser has finally arrived in all its rugged glory. This new 300 Series model replaces the outgoing 200 Series that debuted way back in 2007. It adopts a new GA-F platform based on TNGA that keeps its body-on-frame design, making it a proper off-road vehicle while also lowering the center of gravity and reducing weight. This is the most radical new Land Cruiser ever, as it drops the V8 engine in favor of new powertrains.

Under the hood sits either a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 gasoline engine or a 3.3-liter diesel, both mated to a new 10-speed automatic transmission. The former produces around 409 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, while the latter generates 304 hp with 516 lb-ft of torque. Compared to the outgoing Land Cruiser, this new model produces 10% less CO2.

As before, the Land Cruiser is designed with off-roading in mind, with bumpers that provide excellent ground clearance. Other off-road improvements on the 300 Series include improved wheel articulation, a new Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System, Multi-Terrain Monitor, and Multi-Terrain Select. The Land Cruiser can basically go anywhere, except the United States, where the model will not be localized for sale. Our market may receive this new model badged as a Lexus.

Inside, the 300 Series gains a new horizontal instrument panel that displays important off-road information. Easy-to-reach switches allow drivers to change the off-road modes easily without diving into any menus. The Land Cruiser keeps its three-row layout with seating for up to seven people, and we bet those occupants will have more space than the outgoing model.

Safety is much improved over the outgoing 200 Series, with an available Toyota Safety Sense active safety package. A new pre-collision system detects oncoming vehicles at intersections and oncoming pedestrians crossing the street when the vehicle is turning. The Parking Support Brake is another new feature that prevents front and rear collisions in parking lots.

Toyota says the 2022 Land Cruiser will launch in global markets this summer, but the US is not included. No official trim list was provided, but we can clearly see a more rugged GR Sport variant pictured in the official photos.