2025 Toyota Land Cruiser Review
By Damon Minks
| Updated 3 Days Ago
The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser returns with a fresh design, modern technology, and a focus on everyday practicality while keeping its off-road strength intact. Toyota now offers it in a smaller, more manageable size, making it easier to handle in city streets without losing the rugged capability that defines the Land Cruiser.
Starting at $57,900, the hybrid powertrain balances efficiency with performance, appealing to both long-time fans and those new to the Land Cruiser name. This update blends tradition with modern needs, giving families, adventurers, and daily drivers a versatile SUV ready for almost any situation.
Motopickers Rating
The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser earns strong marks for blending rugged off-road ability with a more approachable size and price. Test drivers experienced a balanced ride on pavement while the Land Cruiser maintained its off-road strength.
With the hybrid setup, drivers will notice smooth acceleration and steady handling in both city and trail conditions, all while achieving better mileage compared to previous Land Cruisers.
Inside, the cabin offers practical space with seating for five and enough cargo room for weekend trips or daily errands. Families will appreciate the wide rear doors, while pet owners will find the flat load floor convenient. The materials feel durable rather than overly luxurious, which suits its purpose as a tough SUV.
Category | Score (out of 10) |
Performance | 8.5 |
Comfort | 8 |
Off-Road Ability | 9 |
Value | 8.5 |
Technology | 7.5 |
What’s New / Updates Over Previous Version
The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser returns to the U.S. with a smaller, more practical design compared to its predecessor. Toyota builds it on the TNGA-F platform, which also supports models like the Lexus GX and Toyota 4Runner. This change makes the SUV lighter and easier to handle while retaining off-road capability.
One of the biggest updates is the 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid powertrain. Toyota combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor to deliver strong performance while improving fuel efficiency. This shift replaces the old V8 engine, offering a balance of power and better mileage for daily driving or long family trips.
The new Land Cruiser starts at $57,900, which is only slightly higher than the previous model. This makes it more accessible for buyers who want an updated, capable SUV without much price tag increase.
Inside, the cabin feels more modern with updated technology and comfort features. Drivers will find a large touchscreen, improved safety systems, and practical storage space. Families can use the roomy interior to carry kids, pets, or camping gear with ease.
Competitors
The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser enters a crowded field of midsize SUVs that balance off-road ability with everyday comfort. Its closest competitor is the 2025 Toyota 4Runner, which shares the same platform and wheelbase but offers different trims aimed at adventure seekers. Families may find the 4Runner’s towing capacity of 6,000 pounds (2,722 kg) appealing for hauling trailers or boats.
Another key rival is the Honda Passport, refreshed for 2026. While the Passport emphasizes on-road comfort more than rugged trails, it competes for buyers who want space, reliability, and a practical choice for family trips. Its smoother ride may appeal to those who want less of a truck-like feel.
For shoppers comparing price and power, the Land Cruiser’s hybrid engine stands out against models like the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The Jeep offers a wide range of trims and strong off-road credibility, but Toyota’s hybrid system brings improved fuel efficiency without giving up trail performance.
Exterior Spotlight
The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser presents a modern yet practical design that blends rugged off-road ability with everyday usability. Its exterior details highlight both function and style, giving buyers choices that fit personal taste and lifestyles.
Color Options
Toyota offers a range of paint finishes that balance classic appeal with fresh choices. Neutral shades like Ice Cap White, Underground Gray, and Black provide a clean, timeless look. For those who prefer something bolder, Meteor Shower Gray, Heritage Blue, and Trail Dust Tan add personality without being overbearing.
Families or outdoor enthusiasts may find lighter colors easier to maintain, especially when dealing with dirt or dust from weekend trips. Darker tones, on the other hand, give the SUV a more refined appearance that works well in urban settings.
Wheel Options
The 2025 Land Cruiser comes with two main wheel sizes: 18-inch and 20-inch. Toyota pairs the 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, making them ideal for drivers who plan to spend time off-road. They provide better sidewall cushioning, which helps when tackling rocky paths or uneven ground.
The 20-inch wheels bring a more upscale look and suit buyers who prioritize city and highway driving. They fill the wheel wells more completely, giving the SUV a stronger stance. Toyota uses durable alloy construction for both options, ensuring strength without adding unnecessary weight.
Interior Analysis
The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser balances rugged durability with everyday practicality. It offers modern technology, supportive seating, and a layout that prioritizes usability without losing its off-road focus.
Features
The Land Cruiser comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen on higher trims, while base models use an 8-inch display. Both support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making smartphone connectivity simple.
Buyers will also find wireless charging, multiple USB-C ports, and an available premium JBL audio system. Toyota includes physical knobs for climate and volume, which makes adjustments easier while driving on rough terrain.
Comfort
The 2025 Land Cruiser seats five passengers with two rows. Toyota chose not to add a third row, which gives more space to the second-row passengers.
Front seats offer power adjustment and available ventilation and heating, while the rear seats provide good legroom for adults. The upright seating position helps with visibility, which is useful both in the city and on trails.
Materials vary by trim. The entry model uses durable cloth, while higher trims feature synthetic or genuine leather. Soft-touch surfaces on the dashboard and doors give the cabin a more refined feel without losing its rugged character.
Cargo
Behind the second row, the Land Cruiser provides about 37 cubic feet (1,047 liters) of cargo space. Folding the rear seats expands capacity to over 70 cubic feet (1,982 liters), which is plenty for camping gear, luggage, or a weekend haul.
The squared-off design of the rear makes loading bulkier items easier. A wide tailgate opening also helps when sliding in larger objects like strollers or coolers.
Families and pet owners will appreciate the flat load floor and durable interior materials, which handle wear and tear well. Those who often haul friends or gear will find the layout practical for both daily errands and outdoor trips.
Power and Performance
The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser blends hybrid power with proven off-road systems, offering stronger efficiency, solid output, and the durability expected from this SUV. It balances everyday drivability with trail-ready capability, making it practical for families, commuters, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Engine Specs
Toyota equips the 2025 Land Cruiser with a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. This hybrid unit replaces the older V8, delivering more torque at lower speeds while improving fuel efficiency.
The engine connects to an 8-speed automatic transmission and comes standard with full-time 4-wheel-drive and a 2-speed transfer case. This setup provides strong traction in mud, snow, and rocky terrain.
Toyota designed this hybrid system for both city driving and off-road use. It offers smooth power delivery on highways while keeping enough low-end torque for climbing or towing. For buyers who need versatility, this powertrain provides a good balance of strength and efficiency.
Performance Data (0-60)
Acceleration is not the main focus of an off-road SUV, but the Land Cruiser still delivers respectable numbers. The hybrid setup helps it reach 0–60 mph in about 6.7 seconds, which is quicker than the old V8 model. While not a sports SUV, the Land Cruiser provides enough speed for daily driving without feeling sluggish.
The electric motor’s instant torque gives the Land Cruiser a faster response, making merging onto highways and passing slower traffic easier and more confident. Families or drivers carrying passengers will notice smoother acceleration, even with a full load of gear.
Fuel Economy
Fuel efficiency improves notably compared to the older V8. The EPA rates the 2025 Land Cruiser at 23 mpg combined (10.2 L/100 km), compared to 14 mpg (16.8 L/100 km) from the previous generation.
This allows drivers to travel farther between fill-ups, making long road trips or weekend camping outings more affordable. For families, fewer stops at the gas station add convenience, especially on busy schedules.
Even with its off-road hardware, the hybrid system keeps fuel use reasonable. Drivers who want a rugged SUV without the heavy fuel costs of past models will find this setup more practical for daily life.
Suspension, Braking, and Handling
The disc brakes deliver consistent stopping power, even with the extra weight of passengers or cargo. This improves safety for family trips or when towing. Steering feels stable, with enough precision for highway driving and enough flexibility for tight off-road turns. Handling is not sporty, but it feels steady and predictable.
Toyota equips the Land Cruiser with a coil-spring suspension that balances comfort with off-road strength. It absorbs bumps well on city streets while still handling rocky trails and uneven paths. The Land Cruiser’s suspension design prioritizes control and comfort, giving drivers confidence whether they are hauling gear, carrying pets, or navigating rough terrain.
Tech Overview
The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser blends modern convenience with practical technology that supports both daily driving and off-road use. Its systems focus on ease of use, clear displays, and seamless connectivity for drivers and passengers.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Land Cruiser features a 12.3-inch touchscreen that serves as the center of its infotainment system. The layout is simple, with large icons that make it easy to use while driving. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, offering wireless connections for quick pairing with smartphones.
Passengers will find multiple USB-C charging ports throughout the cabin, making it easier to keep devices powered on road trips. A wireless charging pad is also available, which helps reduce cable clutter.
Toyota offers a premium sound system option for those who want higher-quality audio. Families and travelers will appreciate the built-in navigation, which provides clear directions and real-time traffic updates.
Features / Drive Modes
The Land Cruiser includes multiple drive modes that adjust performance for different conditions. Modes like Eco, Normal, and Sport manage throttle response and efficiency for everyday use.
For off-road driving, systems like Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select help the SUV handle sand, mud, and rocky paths. The 2-speed transfer case allows drivers to switch between high and low range for maximum traction.
These features make the vehicle more adaptable to different lifestyles. Families can use it for school runs during the week, then switch to off-road settings for weekend adventures. Pet owners or outdoor enthusiasts will also appreciate the added stability and control on rough ground.
Safety Capabilities
The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser places a strong focus on passenger protection, combining modern crash safety standards with advanced driver-assist technology. It balances off-road toughness with everyday practicality, making it suitable for families, commuters, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Safety Ratings
The Land Cruiser has not yet received official crash test results from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). However, Toyota’s recent SUVs, such as the Sequoia and Highlander, have earned high marks in frontal and side-impact tests.
Toyota’s use of a reinforced frame and advanced crumple zones should help the Land Cruiser perform well once ratings are released. The hybrid battery also includes a sealed casing, reducing risks in collisions.
Shoppers can expect the Land Cruiser to meet or exceed federal safety standards. While waiting for formal ratings, buyers can look at Toyota’s track record of strong safety scores across its SUV lineup as a reliable indicator.
Safety Features
Toyota equips the Land Cruiser with a wide range of standard safety equipment. These include eight airbags, a rearview camera, stability control, and anti-lock brakes. Side curtain airbags cover all three rows, offering protection for passengers in the back.
Child seat anchors (LATCH system) make it easier for families to secure car seats safely. The vehicle’s sturdy build also provides extra reassurance on long trips or when carrying kids and pets.
In addition, Toyota includes a tire pressure monitoring system and LED headlights with automatic high beams, improving visibility in poor weather or at night. These features help reduce fatigue and improve driver confidence.
Driver Assists
The 2025 Land Cruiser comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, the brand’s latest driver-assist suite. This package includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, and road sign recognition.
Pre-collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection uses radar and cameras to help prevent accidents in busy areas. This is particularly useful for city driving or school drop-offs.
Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert also comes standard. These systems help drivers safely change lanes or back out of parking spaces, making the SUV more practical for suburban travel.
Additional Safety Features
Beyond the standard systems, Toyota offers extra safety options for those who want more reassurance. Buyers can add a 360-degree camera system, which provides a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle for easier parking and trail navigation.
A head-up display projects key information onto the windshield, so drivers can keep their eyes on the road. This is especially useful during long drives or off-road trips.
The Land Cruiser also features trailer sway control, which helps stabilize loads when towing. For families who haul boats, campers, or gear, this adds peace of mind.
Trim Guide
The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser returns with a simpler lineup that balances rugged ability with modern comfort. Buyers can choose between trims that keep costs reasonable while still offering strong off-road hardware and hybrid efficiency.
Trim and Price
Toyota offers three trims for the 2025 Land Cruiser: 1958, Land Cruiser, and First Edition. Each trim comes standard with full-time four-wheel drive and a hybrid 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, making it capable both on and off the road.
- 1958 – Starting at $57,900, this base model includes cloth seats, LED headlights, and essential off-road features. It’s a practical choice for families who want durability without paying for extras.
- Land Cruiser – Starting at $63,900, this trim adds heated and ventilated seats, larger wheels, and upgraded interior materials. It suits drivers who want more comfort for daily use.
- First Edition – Limited in number, this top trim includes unique styling touches, premium leather, and extra off-road gear. It appeals to enthusiasts who value exclusivity.
Each trim provides seating for five and decent cargo space, making it useful for road trips, hauling pets, or carrying outdoor gear. The different price points allow buyers to match features with their budget and lifestyle needs.
Warranty And Maintenance Information
Toyota provides a 3-year/36,000-mile (57,936 km) basic warranty for the 2025 Land Cruiser. This warranty covers most components against defects and gives buyers peace of mind during the early years of ownership. Families and first-time SUV owners will find this coverage helpful for everyday use without unexpected repair costs.
In addition, Toyota offers a powertrain warranty lasting 5 years/60,000 miles (96,561 km). This coverage protects the engine, transmission, and related parts. Drivers who plan to take the Land Cruiser off-road or on long trips benefit from this extended protection and added confidence in durability.
Toyota includes complimentary scheduled maintenance for 2 years or 25,000 miles (40,234 km). This plan covers routine services such as oil changes and tire rotations. New owners appreciate the convenience of predictable upkeep, especially when juggling busy schedules or family activities.