Toyota has launched the updated Land Cruiser 300 Series in Japan, and the biggest change is under the hood.
The non-electrified twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine has been phased out, replaced by a self-charging hybrid powertrain.
The hybrid combines a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6, a single electric motor integrated into the ten-speed automatic, and a 6.5 Ah nickel-metal hydride battery under the cargo area.
Combined output is 457 hp and 790 Nm of torque, making it the most potent Land Cruiser to date.
The hybrid also gains a new electric power steering system.
Toyota says the electrified Land Cruiser is even more capable off the beaten track thanks to the instant torque from the electric motor.
It retains the 700 mm water wading depth and can keep moving with V6 power even if the hybrid system suffers a critical failure.
The trade-offs are an extra 170 kg compared to the non-electrified V6 and a smaller fuel tank, down from 80 liters to 68 liters.
With the gasoline V6 gone, the sole ICE option in the lineup is now the 3.3-liter biturbo diesel producing 303 hp and 700 Nm of torque.
Trim-Specific Styling and Modellista Bodykit
The Japanese Land Cruiser is offered in three trims: the entry-level GX, the luxury ZX, and the rugged GR Sport.
Unlike traditional facelifts, the SUV retains the same styling except for one trim, meaning the Land Cruiser 300 Series is now available with four different bumper configurations.
The high-spec ZX trim looks different depending on the powertrain, although both versions ride on the same 20-inch alloy wheels with a Super Chrome Metallic finish.
The ZX diesel retains the bodykit and chrome accents of its predecessor, while the ZX HEV introduces a redesigned front bumper extension with side intakes extending toward the skid plate and a sportier garnish for the fog lights.
The diesel-only GX features smaller intakes connected to the black grille, alongside aluminum side steps and silver 18-inch alloy wheels.
The GR Sport, available in both diesel and hybrid forms, retains the rugged bodykit with Toyota lettering on the grille, plastic cladding, stronger skid plates, and matte black 18-inch alloy wheels.
For those who want something even more intriguing, Modellista has introduced a new bodykit for the Land Cruiser Series 300.
The package includes sporty extensions for the front and rear bumpers, flared fenders, side steps, a new tailgate garnish, a discreet roof spoiler, and 20-inch alloy wheels with a custom six double-spoke design.
Equipment, Pricing, and Availability
Inside, the diesel-powered trims have five seats, while the hybrids adopt a seven-seater layout.
Toyota has improved the standard kit across the lineup, adding wireless smartphone charging, road-to-vehicle communication, and a Cold Weather Package.
The flagship ZX and GR Sport trims come standard with dual 12.3-inch screens, a color head-up display, a 14-speaker JBL premium audio, a cool box, a rear-seat entertainment system, front and rear dashcams, and two accessory outlets.
Under the skin, the ZX features Adaptive Variable Suspension while the GR Sport gets the more capable E-KDSS suspension.
The updated Toyota Land Cruiser 300 will reach Japanese dealers on October 1.
Pricing starts at ¥6,300,800 for the entry-level GX trim.
The high-spec ZX with the diesel engine starts from ¥8,750,500 and the GR Sport at ¥9,150,900.
The more powerful hybrid requires ¥9,801,000 for the ZX HEV or ¥10,200,300 for the GR Sport HEV, which is the most expensive member of the Land Cruiser lineup in Japan.
Going for the hybrid also adds a premium of around $6,800 over the diesel.
As for the Modellista upgrades, the bodykit is priced at ¥546,700, with the 20-inch forged aluminum wheels adding another ¥933,900.
