For over six decades, the Toyota Land Cruiser has cemented its legacy as a paragon of off-road prowess blended with on-road comfort. Globetrotters and weekend adventurers alike have long relied on the Land Cruiser to venture into the untamed wilderness, confident in its ability to transport both people and gear across virtually any terrain. The all-new generation, launched just last year, injects a fresh dose of affordability and enhanced efficiency into the revered Land Cruiser lineage, making it a top contender for the Best Off Road Suv 2024.
The previous generation Land Cruiser, discontinued in 2021, was celebrated for its robust V8 engine, albeit one known for its considerable thirst. The 2024 model, however, marks a significant shift under the hood, now boasting a potent 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain. This modern marvel delivers an impressive 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, seamlessly managed by an eight-speed automatic transmission. Staying true to its heritage, every Land Cruiser gracing US soil comes equipped with a highly capable four-wheel-drive (4WD) system, ensuring drivers can confidently tackle challenging off-road environments.
The Land Cruiser’s foundation rests upon a robust body-on-frame construction, a hallmark of traditional SUVs, providing exceptional durability and off-road capability. It features an independent front suspension for refined on-road handling and a solid axle rear suspension, prioritizing ruggedness and articulation when the pavement ends. Smooth-riding coil springs at each corner ensure a comfortable experience across diverse terrains, from city streets to demanding trails. For serious off-road enthusiasts, engaging the rear differential lock, shifting into Low Range, and disconnecting the front sway bar transforms the Land Cruiser into an exceptionally adept off-road machine, solidifying its position as a top choice for the best off road SUV 2024.
This new Land Cruiser generation distinguishes itself by offering a more accessible price point, broadening its appeal to a wider audience seeking exceptional off-road capability. For those desiring to elevate the Land Cruiser’s inherent off-road prowess with added luxury, enhanced power, and increased towing capacity, the Lexus GX 550 presents a comparable package at a premium price. Both vehicles share similar underpinnings, but cater to slightly different preferences within the best off road SUV 2024 category.
While the 2024 Land Cruiser is more compact and lighter than its V8 predecessors, interior space remains generous, comfortably accommodating five occupants. The slightly reduced length and the incorporation of the hybrid system’s battery pack mean the third-row seating option is no longer available. This design choice prioritizes off-road capability and cargo utility for its target audience seeking the best off road SUV 2024.
Stepping inside, the Land Cruiser welcomes occupants with soft-touch materials and contemporary technology. Thoughtfully designed, the drivetrain controls are conveniently positioned around the gear shifter, ensuring essential functions are readily accessible. The base 1958 model, starting at $57,900, is far from basic when it comes to off-road features. It comes standard with an electronic locking rear differential, Crawl Control (an off-road cruise control system), and an 8-inch touchscreen with a rearview camera. Upgrading to the Land Cruiser grade, priced from $63,900, further enhances both luxury and off-road competence. This trim adds an electronic sway bar disconnect system for improved articulation on challenging trails, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, and distinctive rectangular LED headlights, making it a strong contender for the best off road SUV 2024 title.
The 2025 Land Cruiser masterfully blends modern engineering with nostalgic design cues, drawing inspiration from the iconic Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s. This appealing combination of retro aesthetics and cutting-edge capability positions it as a compelling option for buyers considering authentically capable SUVs like the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, or Land Rover Defender. For those in the market for the best off road SUV 2024, the Toyota Land Cruiser offers a compelling blend of heritage, capability, and modern efficiency, making it a top choice for adventurous drivers.
