2025 Toyota Land Cruiser Returns to America with New Off-Road Focus

The legendary Toyota Land Cruiser SUV was discontinued in America after the 2021 model year, leaving a big gap in Toyota’s lineup. But the automaker has now confirmed the Land Cruiser nameplate will return to the US market for 2025, albeit with a different mission than before.

Here’s what we know so far about Toyota’s plans for the reborn Land Cruiser in America:

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• The 2025 Land Cruiser will be smaller and more off-road capable than the last US model.
• It’s expected to share underpinnings with the upcoming 2024 Lexus GX SUV.
• A V6 turbo engine and hybrid powertrain are likely.
• The new Land Cruiser will fill the role of a midsize off-roader, while the Lexus LX retains the full-size luxury niche.
• Toyota is repositioning Land Cruiser into a new segment to avoid overlap with the Sequoia SUV.

Downsizing for Better Off-Road Ability

The last-generation Land Cruiser was a large SUV targeted at luxury buyers looking for utility. But it didn’t have the hardcore off-road talents of rivals like the Jeep Wrangler.

According to reports, Toyota aims to change that with the 2025 Land Cruiser. Rather than directly replacing the old model, Toyota will downsize the new Land Cruiser so it competes more directly against the Wrangler and Ford Bronco.

To achieve this, the 2025 Cruiser is expected to ride on the same platform as the upcoming 2024 Lexus GX. That means it will be smaller and lighter than before, with a tighter turning radius for navigating rocky trails.

Benefits of the smaller size:

• Better approach, departure, and breakover angles for off-roading
• Lower curb weight improves traction and maneuverability
• Shorter wheelbase allows tighter turns on trails
• More capability to fit down narrow tracks

By leaving the full-size luxury niche to the Lexus LX, Toyota can reinvent Land Cruiser as a dedicated off-roader.

Shared Underpinnings with Lexus GX

Toyota’s plan is believed to involve badge engineering — taking the next-gen Lexus GX and selling it as a Land Cruiser.

This strategy makes sense since the Lexus GX already has strong off-road credentials thanks to its body-on-frame construction.

Elements expected to be carried over from the GX:

• Body-on-frame platform (TNGA-F)
• Available torque-vectoring rear differential
• Upgraded suspension with height-adjustable air springs
• Skid plates and underbody armor

By equipping the new Land Cruiser with the GX’s hardware, Toyota can imbue it with serious 4x4 capabilities.

Powertrain Options: V6, Turbo, and Hybrid

To power the downsized Cruiser, Toyota has two compelling engine options:

Turbo V6 (expected):

• 3.4L twin-turbo gas V6
• 349 hp / 479 lb-ft torque
• Same engine as upcoming Lexus GX

Hybrid V6 (optional):

• 3.5L V6 with rear electric motor
• Increased torque for off-roading
• Improved fuel efficiency

The V6 turbo will deliver robust acceleration for conquering steep terrain, while the hybrid will balance power with efficiency.

Toyota may also offer a 4-cylinder turbo in lower trims, like that in the Tacoma pickup. But serious off-roaders will gravitate to the V6.

Positioning Change Frees Up Design Opportunity

With the Lexus LX filling the role of a luxury full-size SUV, Toyota has a chance to take Land Cruiser in a new stylistic direction.

Expect rugged, aggressive styling cues inspired by concepts like the Compact Cruiser EV. Design elements could include:

• Prominent skid plates and armor
• Short front and rear overhangs
• Flared wheel arches covering big all-terrain tires
• Safari-style roof racks and lights

The interior will also take on a more purposeful look, with rubberized floors, waterproof surfaces, and aux switches for off-road accessories.

New Role for 4Runner in Toyota’s Lineup

The return of the Land Cruiser will shake up Toyota’s SUV lineup. One result could be the 4Runner moving to fill the role of a Bronco/Wrangler fighter.

With the Land Cruiser taking over midsize family-hauler duties, Toyota could reinvent 4Runner into a compact hardcore off-roader. This might involve:

• Moving to a ladder-frame chassis
• Increased ground clearance and approach angles
• Focus on rock crawling over cargo space

The revived Land Cruiser allows Toyota to better differentiate between its SUV offerings. Each model can be targeted at a more precise audience than before.

FAQs

When will the new Land Cruiser be revealed?

We expect Toyota to unveil the 2025 Land Cruiser sometime in 2024 as a 2025 model year vehicle.

Will it be called the Land Cruiser Prado in the US?

Toyota may drop the Prado name and just call it Land Cruiser. Prado denoted a smaller midsize model not originally sold here.

What will the new Land Cruiser cost?

Pricing is unconfirmed, but expect it to start around $55,000 — $65,000 for the base trim. The top TRD Pro trim could exceed $70,000.

How capable will it be off-road?

With a ruggedized version of the Lexus GX platform, the new Cruiser should be highly capable on trails. Its smaller size will also improve breakover and departure angles.

When will Toyota reveal details?

2024 is likely the soonest we’ll learn full details, as the Land Cruiser isn’t expected until the 2025 model year. Stay tuned for updates.

The Takeaway

The revived Land Cruiser won’t be a continuation of the last-gen model. Instead, Toyota is reimagining it as a more focused midsize SUV tailored for off-roading rather than luxury.

By sharing a platform with the rugged Lexus GX, adopting potent powertrains, and taking on a new design direction, the 2025 Land Cruiser could be a serious contender in the 4x4 segment. Toyota is playing to the nameplate’s heritage and should entice serious off-roaders.

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