What you need to know about the Land Cruiser 300 GR-Sport
The Land Cruiser nameplate has found its way onto a number of Toyota products, one of the most desired is the larger, more luxury focused 300 Series. Previously known as the 200 Series which featured a thumping turbo charged V8, this newer model not only features more powerful 6 cylinder motors but the 300 has also been given the Gazoo Racing treatment.
What is Gazoo racing?
Did you know that Toyota’s racing history dates back more than 60 years? Having raced in all manner of motorsports throughout the world, Toyota’s major successes gained under the most extreme conditions serve as the flesh and blood for building tomorrow’s cars. Gazoo Racing editing road going vehicles are in a way what BMW M or Mercedes AMG cars are. They are sportier, more performance oriented models.
The new Land Cruiser 300
Not only is the 300 Series the first all-new Land Cruiser in 14 years, it also brings with it a host of technological features and innovations that not only improve usability but safety as well. On the design front, the '300' features a dramatically different profile to Its '200' predecessor. While the design is unmistakably angular in execution, it creates a cohesive form that offers far greater dynamic presence with a sense of agility. In profile the newcomer bears a passing resemblance to the much-loved 80-series of the '90's - keeping the classic two-box look.
The front design features a large and prominent radiator grille with sculpted rectangular headlamps on each side that blend seamlessly into the grille. U-shaped radiator openings underpin a strong design while the bonnet features the signature Land Cruiser 'channel' down the centre. The rear features large trapezoidal tail lamps with stylised light guides which are complemented by large Land Cruiser lettering and the Toyota Insignia.
It’s a new platform
The Land Cruiser 300 serves as the flagship to the Toyota SUV-range, and carries an enviable reputation as the 'Master of Africa'. The '300' model is a 'ground-up' design, featuring an all-new Toyota New Global Architecture platform designated as TNGA-F. The F indicates the first ladder-frame execution of TNGA - a fact that should find favour with off-road enthusiasts.
New power
An all-new engine line-up propels the newcomer; buyers have the choice of a 3.5-litre V6 Twin Turbo petrol engine or 3.3-litre V6 Turbodiesel. Both powerplants focus on delivering increased efficiency, improved torque output and elevated levels of refinement versus the outgoing V8-variants.
In order to accomplish this the diesel engine uses a host of technologies including a new dual-stage turbocharging system - which offers both low-speed response and high-rpm power.This helps the 3.3 V6 Diesel punch out 225kW and 700Nm available between.
The petrol V6 on the other hand offers 305kW with 650Nm which is available from 2000 rpm. This engine utilises Toyota's acclaimed D-4ST injection system which incorporates a combination of port and direct injection, quick-response Dual VVT-i system and low-inertia turbochargers to achieve an ultra-smooth power delivery.
What makes the GR-Sport so special?
For the first time on a Land Cruiser, a GR Sport or GR-S grade is offered which serves as the off-road performance model. As such the GR-S features bespoke exterior styling and trim, rugged 18" alloy wheels, while adopting an off-road biassed specification list - without skimping on any comfort or convenience. This model joins the other Gazoo Racing or GR products, and expands the GR brand into Land Cruiser territory for the first time.
Conquer any terrain
The Land Cruiser 300 GR-S features an updated version of Toyota’s MTS-system. This system allows the driver to select different terrain modes including Deep Snow, Mud, Dirt and Sand - to optimise vehicle performance and maximise traction. In Low-range mode, Rock, Mud and Sand are available alongside the new Auto mode which allows the LC300's terrain logic and camera system to help predict the preferred driving mode based on inputs from various sensors.
