The Drive Report: Toyota Land Cruiser LC300

While the fundamentals of the new LC remain unchanged in that it continues to feature a ladder-on-frame chassis, this is an all-new, next-gen LC based on Toyota’s new TNGA-F platform.

There are a few names in the pantheon of all-time great vehicles whose reputation precedes them. And the Toyota Land Cruiser’s name features prominently on that list.

Over the years, it’s become a byword for real-world go-anywhere ability. It’s gone above and beyond the claims of brochures to serve as a true lifeline in the relatively unconquerable parts of the world. And for that reason, the latest version - the LC300 – commands a considerable premium along with a prolonged waiting period that extends into multiple years. Such is the global demand for the tank-like Land Cruiser.

An all-new platform

While the fundamentals of the new LC remain unchanged in that it continues to feature a ladder-on-frame chassis, this is an all-new, next-gen LC based on Toyota’s new TNGA-F platform. Not only is the platform stiffer, it’s also 200 kg lighter than the previous-gen LC.

In terms of dimensions and design, there’s no mistaking it for a Land Cruiser. Unlike the Range Rover, which leans heavily on tasteful minimalism, there’s nothing subtle about a Land Cruiser, particularly the new-gen LC300 with massive twin-power bulges on its bonnet, which can be prominently seen from the driver’s seat.

In profile, the LC can be compared to a white rhino. Everything is deliberate and designed to impose. It’s a large square block on wheels, now with an even more prominent grille, even more enhanced shoulder lines that really give it the menacing countenance of a battle tank.

Interiors

Before you get into an LC300, something that requires some effort given its sheer daunting height, you must manage your expectations. Even the new one has a distinctly mid-2010s feel to it, given that it features one touchscreen (straight out of the Camry) no panoramic sunroof, no massage seats and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto that continues to be wired. For a car that costs Rs 2.16 crore and upwards (ex-showroom), this can seem like a bit of an issue, especially for the younger, more tech-savvy customers. Still, the presence of actual tactile switches and knobs is welcome, and only serves to enhance the fortress-like attribute of the cabin.

Powertrain

While international markets offer 7-seater variants of the LC, India gets it in a 5-seater configuration only, powered by a twin-turbo V6 diesel. In keeping with modern, emission-driven norms, the LC ditches its formidable V8 diesel for a 3.3-litre V6, which is good for about 309hp and 700Nm of torque.

The engine, upon starting, makes its oil-burner core quite apparent, coming alive with a rumble and accelerating in a linear manner. Given its popularity in desert terrain, the LC’s V6 has plenty of low-end grunt, thanks to two turbochargers. However, its new 10-speed automatic gearbox means it can now move about highways in a more relaxed manner, switching gears seamlessly. For a vehicle without air suspension, the Land Cruiser feels surprisingly pliant. Sure, it does wallow around the bends, and wobble over undulations, but that’s just an integral part of the ladder-on-frame experience. Switching to 4L has never been easier. You simply need to press a switch and pull it down, instantly accessing low-ratio gearing. But that’s not it.

There’s new electronic tech, including Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control and Downhill Assist Control. Pair that with its legendary build quality and you’ve got yourself an incredibly capable and dependable off-roader. Even the new gauge cluster, while very technical-looking, is more customisable than before, and it's easy enough to get the hang of it once you poke around for a bit.

An argument can be made that there are better monocoque SUV soft-roaders and there probably are. But none have the reliability factor going for them. A Land Cruiser isn’t for people who like to fuss over their car. It’s for those who want the most dependable, fuss-free, and capable vehicle, which doesn’t require their constant care and attention, leaving them free to expand their portfolio and spend on wealth-generating assets.

Verdict

In many ways, the LC300 is an anachronism. A square peg in a round world. This is not only because it’s a large diesel SUV, but it’s also because it continues to remain a decidedly analog machine in an increasingly digitised world. And perhaps therein lies its appeal. There are no elaborate touchscreens, no massage functions, no adaptive air suspension – there’s just the promise of total reliability and grand comfort that, should you want, can last you for decades. Should the apocalypse come early, all the gimmicks in the world won’t change the fact that you’ll want a Land Cruiser by your side.