Introduction

Toyota now sells five different sport-utility vehicles, but Land Cruiser remains at the top of the heap when it comes to luxury and off-road capability, and not necessarily in that order. This is one of only a few truly elite off-road vehicles. Few vehicles offer the off-road capability of the Land Cruiser, and fewer still combine this with its level of luxury. If this doesn't do it for you, then you'll have to step up to the Lexus LX 470 or the new Range Rover. The Toyota Land Cruiser can transport up to eight passengers over the toughest terrain, but it's also a comfortable long-distance cruiser. Inside, you'll find all of the features normally associated with top-level luxury sedans, including heated leather seats, power sunroof, automatic climate control, and every power accessory under the sun. It comes with Toyota's impressive level of quality control, ensuring excellent durability and reliability. While the price is high, the Land Cruiser maintains its value over the long haul with minimal depreciation.

Walkaround

The Land Cruiser is readily identified with its square-shaped two-box design. It's an attractive SUV, but it is starting to look a bit dated.

Interior Features

The Land Cruiser is big inside. The leather seats, which come standard, are firm, supportive, and nicely adjustable. The front seats offer a commanding view of the road ahead. The fenders are easily visible, which is a benefit when picking your way along a narrow mountain trail. Getting up to that commanding view entails more of a climb than it does in a Ford Expedition or Chevrolet Tahoe. That's the price of a ground clearance of nearly 10 inches, but it's well worth it when driving off road. Large door openings assist getting in and out. There's plenty of legroom in the second row. It doesn't match the interior room of full-size domestic sport-utilities or the Toyota Sequoia. Full-size SUVs offer more leg and knee room in the second row, but most buyers should find the Land Cruiser's second-row seats habitable by adults. The third-row seat is quite cramped; it's mainly useful for children. You're better off without it if your family is five or fewer, or you aren't regularly in charge of carpool duties. The interior looks contemporary with a dashboard design that closely resembles the one used in Toyota's smaller 4Runner. All controls are logically placed, well marked and easy to use. Storage space abounds for odds and ends. Compartments include a big glove box, a cubby in the front console, and front and rear door pockets. An overhead console provides three storage boxes plus a compartment for sunglasses or a garage door opener. Separate compartments in back hold tools, a jack and a first aid kit.