Autofocus: 2022 Toyota LandCruiser 300

Toyota has recently introduced the 2022 Toyota LandCruiser 300, marking the commencement of a fresh chapter in the enduring history of this renowned off-road vehicle.

Completely reimagined from the ground up, the all-new 300 Series elevates the capability, durability, and reliability associated with the iconic LandCruiser nameplate to unprecedented heights. This transformation is accompanied by notable improvements from its predecessor in safety, comfort, performance, and technology.

The key enhancements encompass a state-of-the-art 3.3-liter V6 twin-turbo diesel engine, a striking new exterior design grounded in the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, and cutting-edge driver assistance technologies. These advancements contribute to exceptional on-road performance and unparalleled off-road capability, reinforcing the LandCruiser’s standing as a trailblazer in the automotive realm.

The LandCruiser 300 Series lineup introduces an expanded array of choices for customers, featuring two new flagship variants – the opulent Sahara ZX and the off-road-centric GR Sport. These additions complement the existing GX, GXL, VX, and Sahara models.

The Sahara ZX boasts unparalleled comfort and style, catering to the discerning LandCruiser buyers, while the GR Sport stands out as the most off-road capable LandCruiser to date. It incorporates a groundbreaking electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (e-KDSS) stabilizer bar control system, along with front and rear locking differentials as standard.

Identifiable by its robust design language, the LandCruiser 300 Series seamlessly merges iconic LandCruiser features with a fresh, powerful, and emotionally evocative styling that perfectly balances form and function.

Inside the cabin, the LandCruiser offers a blend of luxurious style and functionality, along with increased space and flexibility. This ensures that extensive and challenging journeys through the Australian wilderness are undertaken with the utmost comfort.

Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia Vice President Sales, Marketing, and Franchise Operations, emphasized that the LandCruiser 300 Series would reinforce the LandCruiser’s reputation in the demanding Australian conditions. He highlighted its adaptability, whether navigating school car parks or traversing the rugged outback, and its elevation of comfort, safety, and off-road capabilities.

At the core of the LandCruiser range is the groundbreaking TNGA body-on-frame platform, providing a reduction in overall weight and enhanced body rigidity, ride comfort, and handling stability across diverse conditions.

All LandCruiser variants share a new-generation 3.3-liter V6 twin-turbo diesel engine, delivering 227kW at 4000rpm and 700Nm from 1600-2600rpm. This represents a significant increase of 27kW/50Nm compared to the replaced V8. The V6 engine is exclusively paired with a segment-first 10-speed torque converter automatic transmission, enhancing response and fuel economy while minimizing noise, vibration, and harshness.

Thanks to the new-generation engine, intelligent transmission, and weight-saving measures, fuel economy has seen a 6.3 percent reduction on the combined cycle compared to the outgoing V8, achieving 8.9 liters per 100km.

Weight reduction strategies include the extensive use of aluminum on the bonnet, roof, doors, and rear hatch. Additionally, innovative spot-welding techniques and the adoption of lighter, more compact components contribute to the overall weight reduction.

The LandCruiser 300 Series maintains the impressive 3500kg braked towing capacity synonymous with the LandCruiser, providing effortless towing facilitated by increased torque, the sophisticated 10-speed transmission, and a sturdier, more stable chassis. Standardizing the tow wiring harness further simplifies the trailer connection process.

The adoption of lighter construction has not only enhanced towing capabilities but also led to an increased payload across the range, with improvements of up to 90kg, contingent on the variant.

Power is distributed to all four wheels through a newly developed transfer case, reducing shift times between high and low range by 28 percent. Positioned 18mm higher to minimize the risk of off-road damage, the transfer case also includes a standard lockable center differential.

Debuting in the 300 Series is the new-generation multi-terrain select (MTS) control system, offering six different modes for off-road terrain. These include five in high range and four in low range, ensuring optimal traction in challenging conditions. Developed extensively in Australia, MTS introduces new auto modes capable of intelligently adapting traction control systems based on the detected terrain.

Complementing MTS, the low-speed crawl control function and the multi-terrain monitor (MTM) system provide 360-degree and underfloor views, aiding in navigation through obstacles.

The latest Toyota Safety Sense technologies are incorporated, featuring the autonomous emergency braking pre-collision safety system with expanded functionality tailored for LandCruiser. This includes daytime cyclist and oncoming vehicle detection, nighttime pedestrian detection, intersection turn assist, and steering assist. Active cruise control now incorporates curve speed reduction, while road sign assist and lane trace assist with steering wheel vibration are introduced for the first time on VX grades and above.

Standard safety features across all grades include automatic high beam, reversing camera, and 10 airbags. The new Toyota Connected Services offer enhanced safety and security, providing automatic assistance in emergencies and vehicle tracking in case of theft.

As a flagship Toyota model, the LandCruiser’s cabin is designed for premium comfort and cutting-edge multimedia technology. VX grades and above showcase a new 12.3-inch touchscreen with improved display quality and smartphone compatibility, complemented by a new 7.0-inch multi-information display (MID) in the instrument cluster. The cabin layout emphasizes intuitive operation, grouping switches by function.

Seating for up to seven occupants in GXL, VX, and Sahara grades ensures a comfortable family travel experience, with third-row seats now capable of stowing away into the luggage space floor. The cabin has undergone extensive soundproofing to provide occupants with a quiet and comfortable journey.

Backed by Toyota’s five-year/unlimited-kilometer Warranty Advantage, the LandCruiser 300 Series offers owners peace of mind both on and off the beaten track.