Why the new Toyota Land Cruiser might be a better buy than the Tacoma

Land Cruiser packs hybrid torque that outpaces the Tacoma

The new Toyota Land Cruiser features the i-Force Max hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor to produce 326 horsepower and an impressive 465 lb-ft of torque. 

This setup delivers more torque than the Tacoma’s hybrid system, giving the Land Cruiser stronger low-end power for better acceleration, towing, and off-road performance. The hybrid tech also smooths out power delivery and adds efficiency.

Land Cruiser matches or beats Tacoma on fuel efficiency

Despite its larger size and SUV body style, the Land Cruiser achieves excellent fuel economy for its class. Official EPA ratings hover around 23 mpg combined, and real-world tests often show figures in the mid-20s. 

This efficiency is comparable to or slightly better than the Tacoma hybrid trims, proving that the Cruiser’s hybrid system efficiently balances power and fuel savings even in a heavier vehicle.

Land Cruiser comes standard with full-time 4WD and locking diffs

Every 2025 Land Cruiser rolls out of the factory with a full-time four-wheel-drive system, complete with electronically locking center and rear differentials. 

This standard equipment is a significant advantage over the Tacoma, which requires buyers to upgrade to premium TRD trims and add packages to get similar off-road hardware. The Land Cruiser’s comprehensive standard off-road gear means it’s trail-ready without costly add-ons.

Articulating suspension adds trail-ready capability

The Land Cruiser boasts an advanced suspension setup with an electronic stabilizer bar disconnect feature. This system improves wheel articulation by allowing the wheels to move independently over rough terrain, improving traction and ride comfort off-road. 

Combined with crawl control and multi-terrain select, these features help the Land Cruiser tackle challenging trails with superior capability, while Tacoma models generally lack such comprehensive articulation tech.

Land Cruiser interior blends rugged durability with upscale touches

In the Land Cruiser, Toyota balances rugged durability and upscale comfort. The cabin features soft-touch materials, comfortable heated and ventilated front seats, a large 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and premium optional features like a JBL audio system and three-zone climate control. 

At the same time, it keeps durable plastics and finishes in key areas to withstand tough use, making the interior practical yet refined.

Infotainment and tech feel integrated and modern

The Land Cruiser’s infotainment system is well integrated into the dashboard, featuring a sharp 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. 

Tacoma’s infotainment is standard Toyota fare with a new optional 14‑inch touchscreen; while capable, it lacks the seamless integration found in the Cruiser’s cabin design.

Cruise comfort is strong despite its body-on-frame roots

Despite its rugged, body-on-frame architecture, the Land Cruiser delivers a composed and comfortable ride. Reviewers note that it isolates passengers from road imperfections, providing a smooth and cushioned feel on highways and rougher pavement. 

The suspension and chassis tuning reduce jarring impacts and minimize road noise, making the Land Cruiser more livable for daily driving and long trips than many traditional SUVs of its size.

Negative ride reviews reflect rugged chassis traits

Some Land Cruiser owners and testers mention that the ride can feel firm or “truck-like” sometimes, especially over rough pavement or uneven surfaces. This is expected given the live-axle suspension and body-on-frame build that prioritizes durability and off-road toughness. 

Although this firmness might be a drawback for those seeking a soft, car-like ride, it’s a trade-off that delivers unmatched capability and stability in challenging conditions.

Cabin quietness is above average for its category

The Land Cruiser offers an impressively quiet cabin for a large body-on-frame SUV. Enhanced sound insulation materials and aerodynamic shaping reduce wind and road noise significantly. 

Reviewers from Edmunds and MotorTrend highlight that passengers enjoy a calm environment inside, even at highway speeds, making it easier to hold conversations or enjoy media without distraction, a pleasant surprise in this rugged vehicle segment.

Towing capacity meets most adventure and family needs

With a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds, the Land Cruiser is well-suited for hauling campers, boats, and trailers for weekend adventures or family trips. Its hybrid powertrain delivers strong, smooth torque for confident acceleration while towing. 

Full-time all-wheel drive and electronic stability controls help maintain stable, safe towing performance on highways and off-road, offering peace of mind to owners who rely on this capability.

The seating layout provides supportive ergonomics up front

The Land Cruiser’s front seats offer excellent ergonomic support, ample thigh cushioning, multiple adjustments, and available memory settings to suit different drivers. These seats are designed for comfort on long drives and rugged terrain. 

However, the second-row seating is somewhat less spacious, with a lower roofline and limited legroom, which can be less comfortable for taller passengers or extended trips, reflecting its two-row SUV layout.

Wheelbase favors maneuverability on tight terrain

Although the Land Cruiser is a large SUV, its 112.2-inch wheelbase is relatively short compared to competitors and even some midsize trucks. This shorter wheelbase improves its ability to navigate tight corners and narrow trails, which is key for off-road enthusiasts. 

This design also results in better approach and departure angles, allowing the Land Cruiser to tackle steep inclines and declines more easily than longer-wheelbase trucks like the Tacoma.

The hybrid drivetrain feels smooth but lacks V8 character

While the Land Cruiser’s hybrid system offers plenty of torque and improved efficiency, some reviewers miss the distinct sound and smoothness of the previous V8 engine. 

The hybrid’s four-cylinder and electric motor combo can feel less refined in terms of noise and shift feel during acceleration or deceleration. Although more modern and efficient, it doesn’t replicate the traditional V8’s smooth, burly character, which may disappoint some enthusiasts.

The hybrid powertrain outperforms the V8 in power and efficiency

Compared to the outgoing V8 engine, the hybrid powertrain in the Land Cruiser produces more torque, 465 lb-ft versus about 400 lb-ft, and better horsepower. It also cuts vehicle weight by nearly 800 pounds, helping overall efficiency and handling. 

The fuel economy improves drastically from around 13/17 mpg city/highway to an estimated 22/25 mpg combined, making it more powerful and eco-friendly.

Advanced safety and connectivity tech come standard

Toyota equips the Land Cruiser with the latest Safety Sense 3.0 suite, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and road sign recognition. 

The vehicle also features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, over-the-air software updates, and options like a digital rearview mirror and head-up display, helping keep drivers connected and safe without clutter or complexity.

Curious how Tesla’s handling the heat? Take a look at why Cybertrucks aren’t flying off the lot.

Land Cruiser delivers balanced off-road luxury at a premium

With a starting price around $56,450, the Land Cruiser offers a compelling hybrid power package, comprehensive off-road capability, refined interiors, and advanced technology. 

While more expensive than the Tacoma, it justifies the premium by delivering a versatile, capable SUV suitable for serious trail use and comfortable everyday driving. It blends ruggedness and luxury in a way few SUVs in this segment can match.

Want to see how BYD is making moves overseas? Check out how it’s rebooting its European game plan.

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.