The Toyota Land Cruiser has received a major update, bringing it into the modern era with a fresh feel and updated technology. Stepping into the cabin, you’ll notice the pair of 12.3-inch screens (8.0-inch versions in lower trims) that give the interior a more modern look. While it may not be luxurious, it certainly doesn’t feel cheap either – just appropriately utilitarian.
One of the key features that Toyota has focused on is maintaining physical buttons for essential functions so that they can be easily operated even while wearing gloves or navigating rough terrain. The traditional gear lever is also a welcome sight, adding to the overall rugged feel of the Land Cruiser.
However, there are some blank switches that seem to serve no purpose, leaving us wishing they had been utilized for turning off some of the nagging safety systems. Despite this, Toyota’s lane-keeping assistance is top-notch, and the visual indicator for speed limits is reliable on well-signed roads. Disabling these systems can be a bit of a hassle, as it requires navigating through menus in the digital instrumentation display each time you start the car.
The multimedia system in the Land Cruiser is typical of Toyota, offering decent functionality but with a slightly clunky interface for switching between smartphone mirroring and the native interface. The digital gauge cluster is clear and customizable, although adjusting it can be a bit finicky.
With a slight increase in length, the Land Cruiser now offers even more rear seat space and the option for a third row. While the third row is best suited for children or short trips, it provides added versatility when needed. However, boot space is limited with the third-row seats in use, but they can be easily raised electronically across the range.
Overall, the Toyota Land Cruiser has received a much-needed update, bringing it up to speed with modern SUVs while retaining its rugged charm. With improved technology and added space, it remains a solid choice for those in need of a capable and reliable off-road vehicle.
