Toyota has unveiled two Land Cruiser SUVs – the new Land Cruiser 250, smaller and aimed at the North American market, and an extensively updated Land Cruiser 70 with a retro design. The Land Cruiser 250 will be marketed as the “Land Cruiser Prado” in other global markets, featuring slight differences in trims and powertrain offerings.
This marks Toyota’s return of the Land Cruiser brand to the North American market, filling the gap left by the discontinuation of the larger Land Cruiser 200, while the Land Cruiser 300, available in India and other regions, was not introduced in North America.
The Land Cruiser Prado (codenamed J250) has undergone a significant redesign after nearly 14 years. Built on the TNGA-F platform, it’s aimed at competitors like the Ford Bronco, Land Rover Defender, and Jeep Wrangler. The design incorporates influences from various generations of Land Cruisers, emphasizing durability and practicality with a rugged two-box silhouette.
Toyota has focused on enhancing on-road refinement and off-road capabilities. The new chassis is 50% more rigid, while the body-on-frame assembly is 30% stiffer. It boasts improved all-terrain performance, a Multi-Terrain Monitor, and upgraded off-road driving modes. A disconnecting front anti-roll bar allows for greater wheel articulation during challenging off-road situations.
Inside, the Land Cruiser Prado offers a redesigned cabin with chunky physical controls, a digital display, multi-zone climate control, plush leather upholstery, and an advanced infotainment system. It will be equipped with the same 2.8-liter diesel engine found in the Fortuner SUV, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. A 48V MHEV mild-hybrid powertrain option is anticipated by 2025. The Land Cruiser 250, also known as the Land Cruiser Prado, will feature a 2.4-liter petrol engine with a hybrid powertrain, akin to the engine found in the Lexus GX 470. The Land Cruiser 70 receives updates, including a new front styling, and adds a 2.8-liter four-cylinder diesel engine to its lineup.
While the Land Cruiser 70 might not be expected in India, the new Land Cruiser Prado is anticipated to arrive soon, positioned between the Fortuner and the Land Cruiser 300 SUVs.
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