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.
