The 2022 Toyota Land Cruiser 300 will be a true off-road beast with a special suspension, stiffer and lighter body, and all-new gas and diesel engines.
First launched in August 1951, the Land Cruiser is as iconic as the Japanese automaker itself. Toyota’s most capable SUV is undoubtedly one of its most popular vehicles. According to the automaker, it has sold over 10.6 million units of the iconic SUV globally since its debut.
Toyota aims to continue this legacy with the 2022 Land Cruiser 300, a tech-loaded modern-day sibling of the legendary 4X4. The new model results from years of extensive research and development, making it the ultimate king of its segment.
More Powerful and Efficient Gas and Diesel Engines
The 2022 Land Cruiser 300 ditches the old 5.7-liter V8 for a brand-new gasoline-powered twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine. It produces 409 hp and 479 pound-feet of torque, roughly 30 hp more than its predecessor. There is also a 3.3-liter V6 twin-turbo diesel that cranks up 304 hp and train-like 516 pound-feet of torque. Both engines connect to a 10-speed automatic transmission that delivers power effortlessly to the standard all-wheel-drive system.
The All-New GA-F Platform is Lighter and Stiffer
The 2022 Land Cruiser sits on the new GA-F platform, an extension of the successful TNGA philosophy. The new platform brings several improvements to the table, like a lower center of gravity, higher tensile strength, and lower weight. Notably, the state-of-the-art welding and lightweight frames have helped the SUV cut off a lot of weight without compromising the structural integrity.
As a result, Land Cruiser 300 is now 200 kg lighter, giving it a better power to weight ratio and a lower center of gravity. Apart from that, the 300 sits on a highly sophisticated Linear Solenoid Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system and comes with hydraulic power steering with an electronic steering actuator. The latter is highly unusual in the present day, with most manufacturers opting for electrically operated steering. The reason is reliability, especially since the Land Cruiser 300 will be heavily used in harsh environments.
Redesigned Exterior and a New GR Sport trim
The Land Cruiser 300 borrows the overall design from the predecessor, although with more modern details. Namely, it comes with bright LED headlights, a massive chrome grille with the Toyota logo, and 18-inch wheels.
However, the biggest highlight of the 2022 Land Cruiser 300 is the stunning GR Sport trim. The Land Cruiser GR Sport sets itself apart with its redesigned front bumper with TOYOTA lettering and GR Sport branding all over the exterior. The grille now has a sportier appeal and less chrome alongside vertical side intakes. It also gets a new rear bumper, aluminum skid plate, rear mudguards, and Mud Grey 18-inch six-spoke aluminum wheels. Finally, the black-painted wheel-arches, door handles, mirrors, rocker moldings perfectly complement the SUV’s all-white exterior paint.
Improved Interior with More Hi-Tech Features
The interior also gets its fair share of upgrades and features. Toyota offers a massive 12.3-inch infotainment system compatible with the latest features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Furthermore, customers can use a single dial to select Drive Mode, Multi-Terrain, Down Hill Assist Control, and Crawl Control. The infotainment system is paired with a dynamic 14-speaker JBL sound system that perfectly sets the mood for weekend trips.
Toyota Won’t Sell the Land Cruiser 300 in North America
The 2022 Land Cruiser 300 starts from ¥7,700,000 ($70,468) in Japan, where sales will begin shortly. Unfortunately, Toyota won’t launch the Land Cruiser in North America. However, the next Lexus LX will be the same vehicle, albeit with a higher price tag and a more luxurious interior.
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