Anthony FongaroToyota’s Land Cruiser is back, but not quite like you remember it. Gone is the hulking V8-powered overlander, replaced by a downsized, hybrid-powered machine with a distinctly retro vibe. Purists might scoff at the idea of a Toyota Land Cruiser without a V8, but Toyota had its reasons—mainly cost and efficiency.
The last generation of the Land Cruiser was a luxury-laden behemoth that started at over $80,000, effectively pricing out most of the adventure-seekers who once swore by its go-anywhere capability. The 2025 model, however, reimagines the Land Cruiser as something more accessible, more efficient, and (arguably) more stylish. With a starting price of $56,700, it’s still no bargain, but it’s a far cry from the six-figure rigs of yesteryear.
But here’s the real question: Does the new Toyota Land Cruiser still have that legendary off-road DNA, or is it just a dressed-up crossover masquerading as an icon? I spent a week with the top-trim 2025 Land Cruiser—fully loaded with the $4,600 Premium Package—to find out.
Toyota Land Cruiser Offers Throwback Looks, Modern Execution
If there’s one thing Toyota nailed, it’s the styling. The 2025 Land Cruiser embraces its heritage in all the right ways—boxy proportions, squared-off LED headlights, and a Toyota Heritage grille that screams ‘old-school cool.’ The Heritage Blue with a Grayscape roof on my tester was particularly sharp, evoking the color schemes of classic Toyota off-roaders.
Riding on 20-inch gray alloy wheels, the Land Cruiser keeps things rugged with black cladding, black-painted door handles and mirrors, and a split-tailgate window for easy access to cargo. The i-Force Max badge on the tailgate is the only real clue that this isn’t a gas-guzzling V8.
The look is pure overland chic, a blend of classic FJ nostalgia with modern Toyota reliability. It’s one of the few SUVs on the market that still embraces the old-school off-road aesthetic—and for that alone, Toyota deserves a nod.
A Cabin Built for Adventure—Mostly
Inside, the Land Cruiser walks a fine line between rugged utility and premium comfort. The Java leather seats in my test model felt plush and supportive, and the contrast between the deep brown leather and the blue exterior was a chef’s kiss moment.
Technology-wise, Toyota didn’t hold back:
- 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Fully digital gauge cluster with customizable displays
- 360-degree camera system for navigating tight trails or tight parking garages
- Head-up display (included with the Premium Package)
- Physical buttons for climate control (because nobody wants to dig through a touchscreen just to turn up the A/C)
The Premium Package adds even more goodies, like a 14-speaker JBL sound system, a large sunroof, and a wireless charging pad. It’s a worthwhile upgrade, considering it elevates the Land Cruiser’s interior to near-luxury status.
But, let’s be real—there are some compromises. While the cabin feels robust and well-assembled, some hard plastics cheapen the experience. At $69,100 as tested, that’s a tough pill to swallow. The second row is decent but not exactly spacious, and since this Land Cruiser is a hybrid, there’s no third-row option.
Hybrid Power: The Good, The Bad, and The Unexpected
Now, let’s talk about the biggest departure from Land Cruisers of the past: the engine.
Toyota swapped out the old 5.7L V8 for a 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid inline-four, producing:
- 326 horsepower
- 465 lb-ft of torque
- 8-speed automatic transmission
That’s a healthy amount of torque, but let’s be honest—it’s no V8. The Land Cruiser’s 0-60 mph time of 8 seconds feels sluggish for an SUV in this price range. That said, the instant torque from the hybrid system helps in city driving, making it feel quicker than the numbers suggest.
Toyota gives you plenty of drive modes, including Normal, Sport, and Eco for everyday use, as well as Multi-Terrain Select modes for off-roading:
- Mud & Sand
- Rock
- Gravel
- Tow Mode
On the road, the Land Cruiser is comfortable and composed, but don’t expect it to carve corners. Handling is predictably truck-like, though that’s par for the course in a body-on-frame off-roader.
Fuel economy? Better than the old V8, but not by much. Toyota claims around 22 MPG combined, but I averaged closer to 20 MPG. That’s not exactly groundbreaking for a modern hybrid powertrain.
Safety & Pricing: Is It a Good Deal?
Toyota’s Safety Sense 3.0 comes standard, offering:
✔ Adaptive cruise control
✔ Lane keep assist
✔ Cross-traffic alert
✔ Road sign recognition
✔ Adaptive high beams
Pricing Breakdown
- Land Cruiser 1958 (base model): $56,700
- Standard Land Cruiser trim: $61,470
- Two-tone paint: +$350
- 20-inch alloy wheels: +$1,250
- Premium Package: +$4,600
- Total as Tested: $69,100
That’s a hefty price tag, especially when the Lexus GX 550 Premium+ starts at just a few thousand dollars more. For that slight bump, you get:
✔ A more powerful twin-turbo V6 (349 hp)
✔ A more premium interior
✔ Similar off-road capability
If power and luxury are your priorities, the GX 550 is the better buy. But if you love the Land Cruiser’s styling, hybrid efficiency, and legendary nameplate, it’s still a solid choice.
Should You Buy the 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser?
The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser is a throwback SUV done right—it’s cool, capable, and undeniably nostalgic. Toyota made some bold decisions, from downsizing the engine to redesigning it as a more affordable alternative to its predecessor.
Who It’s For:
- Off-roaders who want a capable and stylish adventure vehicle
- Toyota enthusiasts who love retro designs
- Drivers looking for a rugged hybrid SUV with Toyota reliability
Who Should Pass:
- Anyone who wants more power for the price—get the Lexus GX 550
- Those expecting a truly luxurious interior at this price point
- Buyers looking for great fuel economy from a hybrid
At the end of the day, the new Toyota Land Cruiser is a statement piece. It’s not the fastest, the most powerful, or even the best value—but it has character, heritage, and undeniable appeal. If that’s what you’re looking for, this might just be the off-roader for you. 🚙💨
Photos Courtesy of Toyota
