The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser returns as a three-row SUV with a twin-turbocharged V6 engine and standard all-wheel drive

Toyota brought back the Land Cruiser nameplate for the 2024 model year after a five-year gap, positioning it as a premium three-row SUV that sits above the 4Runner in Toyota's lineup. The new Land Cruiser uses a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, producing 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque. All models come standard with all-wheel drive and a full-time four-wheel-drive system with multiple terrain modes.

The vehicle is built on the same platform as the Lexus LX, which means it shares the same engine, transmission, and core chassis architecture. Toyota designed the Land Cruiser to appeal to buyers who want a capable off-road vehicle with luxury-level interior appointments and modern technology features. The SUV seats up to eight passengers across three rows, though the third row is best suited for children or shorter trips.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2024 Land Cruiser is powered by a 437-horsepower twin-turbocharged V6 engine with standard all-wheel drive and available full-time four-wheel drive.
  • Toyota offers the Land Cruiser in multiple trim levels, with pricing starting around $57,000 for the base model and reaching over $80,000 for fully equipped versions.
  • Standard features include a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ driver information technology.
  • The Land Cruiser can tow up to 8,600 pounds when properly equipped, making it suitable for boat and trailer hauling.
  • Fuel economy ranges from approximately 20 to 23 miles per gallon combined, depending on driving conditions and whether you select two-wheel or four-wheel drive.

Engine performance and drivetrain options

The twin-turbocharged V6 delivers power across the entire RPM range, with turbochargers engaging at lower speeds to reduce turbo lag. Toyota pairs this engine with a 10-speed automatic transmission that handles both highway cruising and off-road climbing. The transmission includes a crawl control feature that automatically modulates throttle and braking when navigating rocky terrain.

All Land Cruisers come with standard all-wheel drive, but Toyota offers an available full-time four-wheel-drive system with a locking center differential and electronic locking rear differential. This setup allows drivers to switch between two-wheel drive for highway efficiency and four-wheel drive for off-road conditions. The vehicle includes multiple terrain modes—including Rock, Dirt, Sand, and Mud—that adjust engine, transmission, and suspension settings for different surfaces.

Interior layout and seating configuration

The Land Cruiser seats up to eight passengers in a three-row configuration, with the first two rows offering comfortable seating for adults and the third row designed primarily for children or occasional adult passengers. The second row features a 60/40 split-folding bench seat that can slide forward and backward to balance legroom between the second and third rows. Toyota offers a second-row captain's chair option on some trim levels, which reduces seating to seven but provides more personal space.

The interior uses a mix of leather, wood trim, and soft-touch plastics depending on the trim level. Higher trims feature heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and power-adjustable lumbar support. Storage compartments are distributed throughout the cabin, including a large center console and door pockets, though the third row's presence limits cargo space compared to two-row SUVs.

Technology and driver information systems

Every Land Cruiser includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing wireless or wired smartphone integration. The system supports voice commands and includes a navigation function, though some drivers prefer pairing their phone's navigation app for real-time traffic updates. Higher trim levels add a panoramic sunroof and a premium audio system with multiple speakers.

Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ comes standard on all Land Cruisers and includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping information, automatic emergency braking, and a pre-collision system. The system uses cameras and radar to monitor the road ahead and can explore brakes if it detects an imminent collision. A 360-degree camera system is available on higher trims, providing a bird's-eye view of the vehicle when parking or navigating tight spaces.

Towing capacity and payload ratings

The Land Cruiser can tow up to 8,600 pounds when equipped with the available towing package, which includes a heavy-duty transmission cooler and integrated trailer brake controller. This capacity is sufficient for most boat trailers, utility trailers, and small travel trailers. Toyota includes a backup camera with dynamic guidelines that display the trailer's projected path when reversing.

Maximum payload capacity—the weight the truck bed or cargo area can carry—varies by trim level and drivetrain configuration but generally ranges from 1,200 to 1,500 pounds. This figure includes passengers, cargo, and any aftermarket additions. Buyers planning to regularly carry heavy loads should verify the specific payload rating for their chosen configuration before purchasing.

Fuel economy and real-world efficiency

EPA estimates for the 2024 Land Cruiser range from approximately 20 to 23 miles per gallon combined, depending on whether you select two-wheel or four-wheel drive and your typical driving patterns. Two-wheel-drive models generally achieve slightly better highway fuel economy, while four-wheel-drive models prioritize capability over efficiency. Real-world fuel economy often falls slightly below EPA estimates when driving in stop-and-go city traffic or using the vehicle's off-road features regularly.

The Land Cruiser requires premium unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher) to achieve its rated horsepower and fuel economy figures. Using regular unleaded fuel may result in reduced performance and lower fuel economy. The fuel tank holds 24.6 gallons, which provides a driving range of approximately 400 to 500 miles on a full tank depending on driving conditions.

Trim levels and pricing structure

Toyota offers the Land Cruiser in multiple trim levels, each adding features and capability. The base model starts around $57,000 and includes standard all-wheel drive, the 12.3-inch touchscreen, and Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+. Mid-range trims add features like heated seats, power-adjustable steering column, and upgraded interior materials. Top-tier trims include leather upholstery, panoramic sunroof, premium audio systems, and advanced off-road features like the electronic locking rear differential.

Pricing varies by region and dealer, and Toyota periodically updates trim availability and standard features. Optional packages allow buyers to add specific features without upgrading to a higher trim level—for example, a technology package might bundle navigation, a premium audio system, and advanced camera features. Destination charges and dealer fees are added to the manufacturer's suggested retail price, so the final cost typically exceeds the base price by several thousand dollars.

Comparison to competing three-row SUVs

The Land Cruiser competes directly with the Lexus LX, which shares the same platform and engine but offers a more luxury-focused interior and higher pricing. The LX typically starts around $85,000 and includes more premium materials and technology features. Other competitors include the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon, which offer similar seating capacity and towing ability but use different engine platforms and pricing strategies.

The Land Cruiser positions itself between mainstream three-row SUVs like the Honda Pilot and premium options like the Lexus LX. It offers more off-road capability and a more rugged design than the Honda, while costing significantly less than the Lexus. Buyers should test-drive multiple options to determine which balance of price, capability, and interior quality best matches their needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the new Land Cruiser have a hybrid option?

No, the 2024 Land Cruiser is only available with the twin-turbocharged V6 engine. Toyota has not announced plans for a hybrid version of the Land Cruiser, though the company continues to expand hybrid options across its SUV lineup.

How does the Land Cruiser's off-road capability compare to the 4Runner?

The Land Cruiser offers more advanced off-road technology, including electronic locking differentials and more sophisticated terrain modes. The 4Runner uses a traditional body-on-frame design, while the Land Cruiser uses a more modern unibody platform. Both vehicles are capable off-road, but the Land Cruiser emphasizes on-road comfort and technology alongside off-road features.

What is the warranty coverage for the new Land Cruiser?

Toyota includes a three-year or 36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty on all new Land Cruisers. Extended warranty options are available through Toyota dealers. Warranty coverage varies by state, so check with your local dealer for specific details.

Can you get the Land Cruiser with rear-wheel drive?

No, all 2024 Land Cruisers come standard with all-wheel drive. There is no rear-wheel-drive option available. The all-wheel-drive system can be switched to two-wheel drive for improved fuel economy on highways.

What is the third-row legroom like for adults?

The third row is tight for adults on longer trips, with approximately 27 inches of legroom. It is best suited for children or for adults on short drives. If you regularly need comfortable seating for six or more adults, consider a larger SUV or the captain's chair configuration that reduces total capacity to seven passengers.