Overview & Reviews
For more than six decades, the Toyota Land Cruiser has been synonymous with all-conquering, all-terrain prowess and rugged dependability. Early models from the 1950s, known as the BJ-type Land Cruisers, were similar in appearance to U.S. Army Jeeps. They were powered by a small four-cylinder engine and were strictly utilitarian. Slightly less spartan were the six-cylinder-powered FJ20s. But it was the 1960 introduction of the now-iconic FJ40 that secured the Land Cruiser name in history.
Since then, the Toyota Land Cruiser has grown in size, adopted a four-door body style and become much more focused on broad consumer appeal with an increasing number of luxury-oriented features. As such, it is a fairly expensive SUV at this point, new or used. But whatever recent model you look at, you'll find the Land Cruiser thankfully maintains its core off-road principles and unassailable reputation for dependability.
Current Toyota Land Cruiser
As ever, the Toyota Land Cruiser is a large SUV on a traditional body-on-frame design, though it's admirably difficult to discern this from the luxurious cabin. Motivation is provided by a 5.7-liter V8 that churns out 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic sends power to all four wheels via the Land Cruiser's full-time 4WD system with selectable low-range gearing.
Off-road capabilities are bolstered by a long list of specific equipment. "Crawl Control" enhances the drivetrain's capability by maintaining a fixed ultra-slow velocity for hard-core trail-busting. A Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) enables the front and rear antiroll bars to stiffen or relax automatically as conditions change; the theoretical payoff is both flatter cornering and superior wheel articulation for off-road applications. The only sour note here is that ground clearance and approach, departure and break-over angles have been reduced slightly from the last Land Cruiser.
You'd never guess the Land Cruiser had such superb off-road capabilities from within the stately cabin. Feature highlights for the all-inclusive no-options Land Cruiser include leather upholstery, wood trim, a four-zone climate control system, a navigation system, a 14-speaker audio system, three rows of seating for up to eight people and parking sensors all around. Even a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, center-console cooler box and Toyota's Entune smartphone integration system are included.
In our reviews, we've expressed admiration for the Land Cruiser's on-road performance and composure, as well as its sumptuous accommodations. Buyers should take note that the third-row seats are really only suitable for kids, though. The rare individuals who will explore the Land Cruiser's full off-road potential may also find themselves running out of ground clearance on more demanding expeditions. Even with these drawbacks in mind, however, the Toyota Land Cruiser is in a very special class of its own.
Used Toyota Land Cruiser Models
The current Toyota Land Cruiser represents the fifth generation, which was introduced for 2008. Compared to its predecessors, the wheelbase dimensions didn't change, but the big Toyota added 2.4 inches of length and an extra inch of width and height. More power, more luxury features and more space were all welcome for the new model. Changes along the way included the addition of Toyota's Safety Connect advanced telematics system and expanded audio connectivity in 2010. Note that Toyota did not sell a 2012 Land Cruiser, going straight to the 2013 model year, which brought about the current model's slightly updated styling and all-inclusive features list.
The fourth-generation Toyota Land Cruiser was produced from 1998-2007. Though underpowered compared with the current model, the previous Cruiser is still a desirable used vehicle for a shopper interested in a luxurious and dependable midsize or full-size SUV. With a traditional ladder frame structure and seating for eight passengers, this Land Cruiser was an excellent choice for off-road enthusiasts with growing families. It came in just one well-equipped trim level, though upscale options such as rear-seat DVD entertainment and a navigation system were available.
The fourth-generation Cruiser relied on a 4.7-liter V8 that was capable of up to 275 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque (235 hp and 320 lb-ft for pre-2006 versions). A five-speed automatic transmission was standard, as was 4WD with low-range gearing for enhanced off-road performance. As an option, Toyota offered an adjustable suspension system. This system was capable of adjusting the shock valving for better ride comfort and handling, and altering the vehicle's ride height for increased ground clearance when driving on rough terrain.
We liked this version of the Land Cruiser -- a lot. It earned high marks in reviews and was a repeated Edmunds.com Editors' Most Wanted<sup>SM</sup> award winner. Noted positive attributes included its go-anywhere capability, comfortable ride quality, smooth if not scintillating V8 and luxurious interior. Those shopping for a used Toyota Land Cruiser of this generation should feel relatively free to look at all of its years, as Toyota hasn't made any major changes. Generally, the newer the Land Cruiser is, the more features it will have. Stability control came out in 2000, for instance, and a navigation system came in 2001. As noted, one downside to models previous to 2006 is that their V8s produced 40 fewer hp.
Used Land Cruisers from the '90s also provide an impressive mix of capabilities at more affordable prices. Most buyers shopping for a used four-door Land Cruiser are going to be interested in the third-generation model that was available for the 1990-'97 model years. Though this SUV wasn't as large, luxurious or powerful as the current model, it still represents a top pick for a shopper interested in a used SUV that's comfortable and off-road worthy. At its debut, the vehicle could seat five passengers in its two rows of seating. Under its hood was a 155-hp, 4.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine. It had 4WD but the driver had to manually lock the front hubs to activate it. The following year, Toyota replaced that setup with a full-time 4WD system. Other major upgrades for this model included a larger 212-hp engine in 1993 and enhanced safety equipment in 1995.
In Edmunds.com reviews of the third-generation Toyota Land Cruiser, praise was given for its impressive off-road ability, strong engine and durable nature. The main noted downsides were the SUV's uninspiring acceleration and its lofty price. Depreciation, of course, has mitigated this latter issue, although resale values remain impressively high.
User Reviews:
Showing 91 through 100 of 273.00-
Happy - 2002 Toyota Land Cruiser
By Mike - October 3 - 6:40 amGreat SUV... second Cruiser I currently own. Other is a 1994. Came off of an Audi Allroad (01) nothing but problems with the Audi it was about $1000 a month in repairs the 1994 Cruiser averaged 0. Live back a long gravel road it was tearing the Audi to pieces. Cruiser has gas mileage but a small price to pay (although its getting larger). Would recommend this car to anyone. I will never own anything else. Except maybe the new FJ Cruiser.
-
What A Truck! - 2002 Toyota Land Cruiser
By Mike Lecky - September 22 - 8:16 amSo, I researched all the large SUVs and decided to make a good sound decision and go with the 2002 Land Cruiser. So far this machine exceeds all of my expectations. The comfort is unbelievable and the body is a timeless. If you have the pleasure of owning this car, you know the name and its history stands alone in its own class. Why buy anything else when you can own a Land Cruiser.
-
Fun Run - 2005 Toyota Land Cruiser
By bob - September 12 - 11:33 amLong trip, short trip; the Land Cruiser makes just a trip to the store a "Fun Run". We had a Town and Country and look all over for a vehicle that had that ride and comfort with the SUV safety. Most were just built up trucks. Cadilac had a great exterior, but was a chevy truck inside with just more padding. The LC is functional, fun, and the inside is built for the vehicle and the drivers and passengers favor. The problem is the wife took it and I have to drive the T&C to work...
-
The Best Suv - 2001 Toyota Land Cruiser
By Awesome!! by Dimi - August 31 - 12:56 pmThis is my 2nd LC. Ive got 98,000 miles on my 2001 and with no repairs! I even pull a horse trailer and a 1700 lb. clydesdale. This SUV is aweseome!! I plan on purchasing another one when I get to 150,000 miles. My car looks and drives like a new vehicle. In fact, many people mistake it for new. I just replaced the timing belt and brakes -- just maintenance. One of a kind!!!
-
2000 Land Cruiser - 2000 Toyota Land Cruiser
By BBrown - August 31 - 10:00 amI bought this off of a lease. The deal was no hassle with the price set at a reasonable 41,000. (Try to buy a LX 470!) With the certified program and Toyota quality I had no fears of "used car" problems. This has been a dream vehicle whith lots of power. Pros: Quality, Feeling of security, ergonomics, comfort, Quiet ride, fun factor. Cons: Mileage, transfer case seal leak (warranty), Mileage, relative cost compared to new High End SUVs, Mileage.
-
Its the best! - 2002 Toyota Land Cruiser
By Cappy - August 24 - 5:30 pmThis is a great car! It is incredibly reliable, and safe. While driving in the snow, I feel like I am on dry pavement. I know that I can go anywhere. The fuel mileage is not great, but standard for an SUV of this size. But a typical Toyota - you cant go wrong. They say once you have a Land Cruiser, you will always have one.
-
Best, not an SUV - 2004 Toyota Land Cruiser
By evilclown1962 - July 20 - 4:32 pmIf you purchase the Land Cruiser for its intended use it cannot be beat. For low maintenance and off road, on road ability it cannot be beat in the long run. It is not intended to be a grocery getter. All are built in Japan and intended to last 300k miles. They are shipped all over the world for tough off road conditions. Enjoy your Cruisers. I have owned 5 throughout the years. Do your research and you will not be disappointed. Look at the vehicles diplomats are escorted in dangerous situations around the world and you will notice a large majority are the Cruisers.
-
landcruiser - 2004 Toyota Land Cruiser
By Vince Fabricatore - July 15 - 2:00 amAfter having 7 other suvs over the past 17 years I have found the ultimate vehicle. Great ride, quiet interior, plenty of power, handles the road and bumps with ease and the fuel economy is better than my last V6 suv, and 5 star build quality. A+++
-
Oh What a Feeling! - 2009 Toyota Land Cruiser
By Vstrom-Will - July 10 - 12:43 amSimply a magnificent machine! It operates as advertised, and the on road manners are very refined. Off road it lives up to its reputation. The cabin comfort level is unsurpassed IMHO. I truly like the understated exterior styling as it does not draw attention. The Country Club PKG is worth the extra $$. Mileage is exactly as advertised. Can hardly keep the little woman up front as she loves the entertainment system in the back.
-
Love my Land Cruiser - 2004 Toyota Land Cruiser
By CHANCE - June 2 - 2:00 amI have owned several SUVs in the past and this one surpasses them all in all areas.
