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^SM 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 231 through 240 of 273.00

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  Very reliable vehicle - 1998 Toyota Land Cruiser
  By curtis in richmond - June 29 - 2:00 am

  I bought a used 1998 cruiser in 2001 and have not had one problem with the vehicle driving 14k per year. I am 6 2" and I love the comfort. Its like driving while sitting in a lazy boy. Previously drove a camry (also an excellent vehicle), this drives just as well.

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  legendary suv - 2003 Toyota Land Cruiser
  By sampan - June 29 - 2:00 am

  I drove this vehicle everyday to work and at least once a month from New York City to Palm Coast Florida with 85000 miles on it right now, still on 100% top condition.

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  Land Cruiser - 2003 Toyota Land Cruiser
  By DC - June 28 - 6:46 pm

  This is the best SUV, period. I had a Ford Supercrew, nice, but no comparison. The towing power is great. I tow in mountains and the low gear is incrediable. Great family transportation. Will get another one for sure.

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  My wife was right - 2002 Toyota Land Cruiser
  By Valex - June 23 - 10:00 am

  My wife has wanted this beast for years. Now she got it and all I want is to drive it. Power and agility. Incredible control and even a great turning diameter. The nav syst is a blast, and the thing looks cool as well. Plenty big, the seqioa is a bus and drives like one- no comparison.

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  Riding in style - 1998 Toyota Land Cruiser
  By Travis West - June 4 - 10:00 am

  The experience of my 1998 toyota landcruiser has not been disappointing. In this case you get what you pay for, you will pay more but it all worth it. The comfort and ergonomics of this vehicle is superb. Engine is a silky smooth V8 that has the extra power if needed when passing or climbing a hill on the weekends.

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  Love my new 2008 LC - 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser
  By bulabarry - June 3 - 3:03 am

  Traded in my 2000 LC for 2008 LC. I also own a 2004 LC. I like everything about the 08 LC (including the new design). I tow a large boat that was a problem for my 2000 LC - not a problem with the 08! The 08 has better power, handling, off-road capabilities, more rugged, really sharp looking interior (and exterior). To me the 08 is worth every penny.

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  My wife and I fight over the Keys - 2001 Toyota Land Cruiser
  By Ruckus1 - May 29 - 3:40 am

  I bought this vehicle as a work truck/toy to hall various things for the house. My wife saw pictures of it and said it was to big&bulky and that I would not have to worry about her getting behind the wheel. After the first hour she suggested getting an extra key fob wich was priced at $240. She frowned when I folded the seats down and shoved a sink,counter and a power saw in the back. We absolutely adore this vehicle. its a joy to drive. We invite this winter season to do its worst.

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  PERFECTION - 2003 Toyota Land Cruiser
  By Alex Us - May 22 - 2:00 am

  For a reliable, plush ride dont look any further...Nothing compares!! The 2003 interior is truly Lexus-like. Low depreciation makes this SUV even more appealing.

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  3 Years later and strong as ever - 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser
  By pjcrage - May 8 - 7:50 pm

  Following up on my post from May of 2011, I can report that this SUV has performed flawlessly and other than a few nits, reliability has been outstanding. The only problem with this situation is that although my heart would love to look at a newer LC my head says no way. This is a durable and solid performer that begs you to keep it till it can take no more and that is likey many many years from now. Nothing more to say, it is the finest vehicle I have ever owned and since this is my 25th vehicle over the past 33 years that is saying a lot.... Its not cheap but ultimately in this case you get what you are willing to pay for.

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  Iconic Vehicle - 2000 Toyota Land Cruiser
  By nilopol - April 30 - 11:36 pm

  I purchased my 2000 LC in 2003. Since then with regular maintenance I have had absolutely no problems. I put in a new muffler and exhaust manifold, but otherwise still going strong. I put in a navigation and backup camera, and it acts like a 2006-2007 ride.