For nearly six decades, the Land Cruiser was a favorite among consumers, but in 2021, it had reached the end of the line. It returned refreshed in 2024, with a smaller body, smaller hybrid engine, and a streamlined lineup. Let’s take a look at the top trim in the Land Cruiser lineup, also dubbed the Land Cruiser (or unofficially, the standard Land Cruiser).
The Land Cruiser loses a trim level for the 2025 model year
The Land Cruiser’s most significant design changes were made in 2024, so 2025 will see no changes except one. This year, only two trims are in the lineup—the base trim, the 1958, and the current top trim, the $63,900 Land Cruiser. The premium trim in the 2024 lineup, the First Edition, has been discontinued.
Featured Gallery
2025 Toyota Land Cruiser
2025 Toyota Land Cruiser
2025 Toyota Land Cruiser
Toyota
2025 Toyota Land Cruiser
2025 Toyota Land Cruiser
2025 Toyota Land Cruiser
The top Land Cruiser trim gains more modern and deluxe equipment
Unlike the lineup’s retro base trim, the Land Cruiser 1958, the standard Land Cruiser’s design is not an homage to the past—it has a decidedly more modern exterior and an interior with more luxury upgrades.
Outside, rectangular headlights replace the round headlights of the 1958 model, with Rigid Industries LED fog lamps that switch from white to amber. Additional to the standard Land Cruiser is an illuminated entry light, a running board, roof rails, and a power-controlled rear door/liftgate. The Land Cruiser’s 18-inch matte-gray alloy wheels feature larger 265/70 all-season tires with an available upgrade to 20-inch wheels and 265/60 tires.
The Land Cruiser has a more deluxe interior than the 1958 but is smaller than previous models, with just two rows and five seats. Its driver’s seat is 8-way power-adjustable with lumbar support, while the front passenger’s is 6-way manual-adjustable. Both seats are heated and ventilated and leather upholstery is also available in this trim.
With a larger 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, the standard Land Cruiser features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility with dual USB-C charging ports for the front and back row and the option for an additional two USB-Cs.
For a little extra, the Land Cruiser’s Premium Package makes life easier on and off the trail
The Premium Package is the main package offered for the Land Cruiser. For an additional $4,600, it includes a sunroof, power-adjustable seats at the front, a center cool box, and a digital rearview mirror.
This package also features a Smart Key System, allowing you to start your engine with the push of a button. Active Remote Connect features a 4G network-dependent Digital Key that allows vehicle start, entry, and tailgate access, and an available key card.
The Land Cruiser boasts a smaller but strong, capable engine and exceptional performance
The 2025 Land Cruiser’s engine was changed in 2024 from a naturally aspirated V8 to the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain—a smaller turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder assisted by two electric motors that crank out 326 horses and 465 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, this hybrid powertrain makes for a safe, reliable, and cost-effective solution for work and play.
It should be no surprise that the current smaller hybrid powertrain has better mileage than the aforementioned V8, which achieved 14 mpg combined. It gets 22 mpg/city, 25 mpg/highway, and 23 mpg overall. At about eight seconds, the Land Cruiser’s acceleration could be better, but it nonetheless provides a refined, agile performance.
The Land Cruiser excels with traction and stability while on the trail
The SUV’s four-wheel-drive system with low range makes it a boon for the trail, as does its locking center and rear differentials. Both maximize traction, and it’s available automatically disconnecting front stabilizer bar increases front wheel movement with a button tap. Low-speed cruise control, multiple off-road traction control settings, and available camera views make the Land Cruiser a reliable companion on rough terrain.
How the 2025 Land Cruiser stacks up against the competition
The standard Land Cruiser distinguishes itself from the competition with a perfect balance of off-road capabilities, luxury, and versatility.
When compared to the Land Rover Defender, the Land Cruiser shines in reliability and ease of maintenance. While the Defender offers solid off-road performance, the Land Cruiser’s reputation for durability and its refined, spacious interior with advanced technology set it apart as a more user-friendly and luxurious option.
The Jeep Wagoneer is another worthy competitor, known for its luxury and towing capacity—10,000 pounds to the Land Cruiser’s 6,000 pounds. But the Land Cruiser offers better fuel efficiency with its hybrid powertrain when compared to the Wagoneer’s larger V8 engine, making it a more eco-conscious choice without sacrificing performance.
Although the Ford Bronco excels in off-road capability, it doesn’t quite match the Land Cruiser in terms of luxury and refinement. The Toyota Land Cruiser provides a higher level of comfort and more advanced features, making it a more versatile choice for daily drivers and trail aficionados alike.
Final thoughts
Whether you’re tackling tough trails or simply enjoying a family adventure, the high-end features and versatile performance of the standard Land Cruiser make it a solid contender against its rivals with superior comfort, off-road capabilities, and a more eco-friendly engine.
For those in search of a capable, refined, and efficient SUV, the 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser is a compelling option.
About the author
Michelle Nati
Contributing Writer, Autoblog