It's 15 years since the launch of an all-new Land Cruiser, so the arrival of the latest iteration of Toyota’s workhorse has been keenly anticipated by those who regard it as the most dependably practical four-wheel vehicle on the market.
That reputation has been cemented over 65 years, with over 10 million units sold worldwide, thus allowing Toyota to dominate a market where reliability and durability are valued far more than looks. The new version actually harks back in its design to previous generations, and the same utilitarian profile of previous Land Cruisers is very evident.
Due to arrive next month, the new Land Cruiser will be sold predominantly as a commercial option, the passenger version being a rare and very expensive one, well over €100,000.
For farmers, those involved in equestrianism and other self-employed professionals the price will be €57,192. The VAT rate would be 23% higher but the rebate for those using the vehicle for work brings it back to that launch price.
It is, of course, a diesel. An electric version is being worked on, but at the moment, electricity is simply not an option for a vehicle whose purpose is really as much off-road as on-road. The engine is a 2.8 unit with a power output of 204 horsepower and maximum pulling power of 500 Nm at between 1,600 and 2,800 RPM.
It has a towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes - the same as the Toyota Hilux. These are key factors for people using the Land Cruiser for work, especially those bringing animals to a mart or horses to an equestrian event.
The hydraulic steering system has been replaced with an electric power system, which greatly helps in reducing steering effort when compared to the previous model. The automatic gearbox also makes life considerably easier.
Fuel consumption, according to Toyota, is an average of 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres, although that figure will depend on factors such as towing weight.
Standard equipment on the new model includes Toyota’s comprehensive Safety Sense system, Apple and Android compatibility, a 9" or 12.3 " infotainment screen (depending on the version), adaptive cruise control, a 7" or 12.3" driver’s information display, dual zone air conditioning, heated and ventilated seats, smart entry and digital key access and a powered back door and opening rear tailgate window.
There is also a rear-view camera with a washer function and front and rear parking sensors.
The warranty is a three-year/100,000 kilometre one.
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