Seventy years since the Land Cruiser nameplate was created, Toyota has released the latest in a long line of Kalahari crawlers. Dubbed the 300, it replaces the 200 derivative that's been soldiering on since 2007. Along with a completely new GA-F platform and redesigned body, the 300 boasts a fresh pair of engines and the latest 10-speed automatic transmission.
Quite impressively, Toyota has managed to shave 200 kg off the weight of the new Land Cruiser. This is courtesy of the new underpinnings that not only lower the big Toyota's centre of gravity, but provides superior performance - on tarmac and off the beaten track.
The lusty turbodiesel V8 that enjoyed great popularity in the Land Cruiser has been sent off into retirement. Despite being smaller, the replacement V6 diesel is more powerful, offering 227 kW and 700 Nm of torque, thanks to a twin-turbo setup. Toyota has also announced a V6 petrol (also fitted with two turbochargers) that develops slightly more power (305 kW) but less torque (650 Nm). A ten-speed automatic gearbox with low-range functionality is standard.
In South Africa, the local range will kick off with the GX-R model. Available with the turbodiesel powertrain, the GX-R will serve as the 'base-model', for those who prefer a focus on utility. All models are fitted with LED headlamps and integrated daytime running lamps, keyless entry, satellite navigation, climate control, electric adjustment for the drivers' seat and more.
Replacing the luxury VX-R is the ZX which, says Toyota, has a more 'image-focused persona', with 20-inch alloys, chrome trim and a luxurious cabin. A first for SA is the new GR Sport (GR-S) trim level, which offers more rugged styling and an 'off-road biased' specification list.
The VX-R and GR-S are both available with either the diesel or petrol engine, and offer plenty of additional equipment above what the GX-R model receives. Indeed, plusher LC 300's receive a wood-trimmed, heated steering wheel, power operated 3rd row seating, a JBL 14-speaker audio system and seat heating & ventilation for first- and second-row passengers - to name just a few of the standard features. All derivatives offer Apple CarPlay/Android Auto functionality.
Safety has clearly been a top priority for Toyota, with a host of driver assistance systems. All models are sold with an impressive 9-services / 90 000 km service plan and 3-year/100 000 km warranty.
Price List:
Land Cruiser 300 GX-R 3.3D - R 1 283 200
Land Cruiser 300 ZX 3.3D - R 1 765 500
Land Cruiser 300 ZX 3.5T - R 1 797 100
Land Cruiser 300 GR-S 3.3D - R 1 811 900
Land Cruiser 300 GR-S 3.5T - R 1 842 900
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FAQ
Q: What does the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 cost in South Africa?
The Toyota Land Cruiser 300 starts from around R1,200,000 for the base GX-R diesel model, while the flagship ZX and GR Sport variants can push well over R1,500,000 depending on specification and options.
Q: Is the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 worth buying?
The Land Cruiser 300 is absolutely worth buying if you need serious off-road capability and can afford the premium price tag, offering legendary reliability, a 200kg weight reduction, and more powerful engines than its predecessor.
Q: What engine options are available in the Land Cruiser 300?
The Land Cruiser 300 offers two twin-turbo V6 engines: a diesel unit producing 227kW and 700Nm, and a petrol variant with 305kW and 650Nm, both paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Q: Which Toyota Land Cruiser 300 model should I choose?
Choose the GX-R if you prioritise utility and value, the ZX for luxury and chrome bling, or the GR Sport if you want the most rugged off-road focused styling and capability.
Q: How much lighter is the Land Cruiser 300 compared to the 200?
The Land Cruiser 300 is 200kg lighter than the outgoing 200 series, thanks to its new GA-F platform that also lowers the centre of gravity for better on and off-road performance.
Should You Buy It?
Yes, you should absolutely buy the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 if you have deep pockets and need the ultimate go-anywhere family hauler. The best value in the range is the GX-R diesel at around R1,200,000, which gets you legendary Land Cruiser capability with modern tech and that brilliant 227kW twin-turbo diesel. Sure, it's not cheap, but this is the SUV that'll still be crawling through the Kalahari long after lesser vehicles have given up the ghost. The 200kg weight saving and new platform make it better than ever, and let's be honest, nothing else combines this level of off-road prowess with seven-seat luxury quite like a Land Cruiser.
