All-new Toyota Land Cruiser LC300 debuts in UAE

KUALA LUMPUR: After numerous spy shots, leaks, and teasers, Toyota has finally yanked the silk off the next-gen Land Cruiser LC300 at a digital event held in UAE. Compared with the outgoing 200 series, the revamped SUV is more hi-tech, lighter, and more powerful with cleaner powertrains. However, it retains the macho design and off-road capabilities of its predecessors. 

The new Land Cruiser is based on the brand’s new GA-F body-on-frame platform, which is 200 kg lighter than earlier. To achieve this, the automaker redesigned the frame and improved its rigidity. Also, it ditched the muscular V8 powertrains in favour of smaller and more efficient twin-turbo V6 petrol and diesel mills.

Looking at the new engines’ specifications, the 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 mill delivers a maximum power of 415 PS and a peak torque of 650 Nm. On the contrary, the 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6 mill is good for making 309 PS and 700 Nm. Both mills are mated to a 10-speed automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive system.

The SUV known for its off-roading prowess since its debut also received further improvements. These include a reworked suspension system for better articulation, terrain modes, and a terrain view monitor.

In terms of design, the boxy silhouette of the Land Cruiser remains unchanged, however, it gets a large slatted rectangular front grille flanked by sleeker LED headlamps. Toyota also redesigned all the body panels of the SUV along with equipping it with new alloy wheels. The rear fascia now boasts an upright boot lid and sleek LED tail lights. However, in terms of size, the new SUV continues with the earlier dimensions with the same approach, departure, and break-over angles.

Inside, the new Land Cruiser LC300 gets an overhauled dashboard with a floating infotainment system taking centre stage. Below that lies a revamped central console with knobs and buttons. Included in the hi-features list is a coloured multi-info display. a head-up display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, Qi wireless smartphone charging, four-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, and keyless entry with push-button start. 

As for safety, Toyota has packed the SUV with advanced driver aids like a pre-collision system, electronic stability control. emergency steering and crash avoidance, and lane keeping assist. 

Toyota has not yet disclosed the new Land Cruiser LC300 price, but it does reveal the revamped SUV will go on sale in the UAE this summer.

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