Toyota has officially introduced the updated Land Cruiser 300 Series in Japan, adding the hybrid powertrain that previously debuted in the Middle East, Australia, and Eastern Europe. While exterior changes are reserved for the ZX Hybrid, every version benefits from upgraded equipment.
The new powertrain is a self-charging hybrid system combining a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, an electric motor built into the ten-speed automatic transmission, and a 6.5 Ah nickel-metal hydride battery mounted beneath the cargo area. Total output reaches 457 hp (336 kW / 457 PS) and 790 Nm (583 lb-ft) of torque, making it the most powerful Land Cruiser yet. The hybrid also introduces a new electric power steering system.
Toyota says the electrified Land Cruiser is more capable off-road because of the electric motor’s instant torque. It maintains the model’s 700 mm (27.6 inches) of water-wading capability and can continue running on V6 power if the hybrid system experiences a critical failure. The trade-offs are an additional 170 kg (375 lbs) over the non-hybrid V6 and a fuel tank that shrinks from 80 lt (21.1 gallons) to 68 lt (18 gallons).
The non-hybrid twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine has been discontinued in favor of the hybrid setup. That leaves the 3.3-liter biturbo diesel as the lineup’s only remaining internal-combustion-only option, producing 303 hp (226 kW / 307 PS) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque.
The Land Cruiser’s Different Looks
Toyota offers the Japanese-market Land Cruiser in three grades: the entry-level GX, the upscale ZX, and the rugged GR Sport. Rather than receiving a conventional facelift, the SUV keeps its existing design except on one trim. As a result, the Land Cruiser 300 now has four bumper designs, even before adding the newly available Modellista bodykit.
The high-grade ZX has a different appearance depending on its powertrain, although both versions use 20-inch alloy wheels finished in Super Chrome Metallic. The ZX diesel carries over the previous bodykit and chrome detailing, while the ZX HEV gains a revised front-bumper extension with side intakes reaching toward the skid plate, along with a sportier fog-light garnish.
The diesel-only GX gets smaller intakes integrated with the black grille, plus aluminum side steps and silver 18-inch alloy wheels. The GR Sport is offered with both diesel and hybrid powertrains and retains its rugged bodykit, Toyota grille lettering, plastic cladding, more substantial skid plates, and matte-black 18-inch alloy wheels.
Modellista offers a more distinctive appearance through a new bodykit for the Land Cruiser 300. The package adds sporty front- and rear-bumper extensions, flared fenders, side steps, a redesigned tailgate garnish, a subtle roof spoiler, and 20-inch alloy wheels featuring a custom six-double-spoke pattern.
More Standard Equipment
Inside, diesel versions have five seats, while hybrid models use a seven-seat configuration. Toyota has expanded the standard equipment list across the range with wireless smartphone charging, road-to-vehicle communication, and a Cold Weather Package.
The ZX and GR Sport come standard with dual 12.3-inch displays, a color head-up display, a 14-speaker JBL premium audio system, a cool box, rear-seat entertainment, front and rear dashcams, and two accessory outlets. Toyota’s official accessory catalog offers numerous additional options. The ZX uses Adaptive Variable Suspension, while the GR Sport is equipped with the more advanced E-KDSS suspension.
Hybrid Power Comes at a Premium
The updated Toyota Land Cruiser 300 will arrive at Japanese dealerships on October 1. Pricing begins at ¥6,300,800 ($40,600) for the GX. The diesel-powered ZX starts at ¥8,750,500 ($56,400), while the GR Sport starts at ¥9,150,900 ($59,000).
The more powerful hybrid costs ¥9,801,000 ($63,200) in ZX HEV form and ¥10,200,300 ($65,800) as a GR Sport HEV, making the latter the most expensive Land Cruiser in Japan. Choosing the hybrid adds approximately $6,800 over the diesel model.
The Modellista bodykit costs ¥546,700 ($3,500), while its 20-inch forged aluminum wheels add a further ¥933,900 ($6,000).
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