History of the Toyota LandCruiser
The LandCruiser was originally nicknamed the ‘Toyota BJ’. Built in 1951 it was quickly named the Toyota Jeep, but thanks to its B-type engine and the original name, the nickname BJ stuck… then it reimagined the models into the J models and the rest as they say is history.
From humble beginnings this iconic roadster was adopted as one of our own very early on. Read all about the history of the LandCruiser 300 Series as the latest in a long line of legends here, including all the models leading up until now.
How much will the new LandCruiser 300 Series cost?
With world class engineering, huge upgrades to interior comfort and technology suite, we know it will be love at first drive, no matter the cost.
However, we have got you covered. There are 6 new exciting models listed below in the new series and prices for the LC300 series officially start from $92,990 for the GX model and increase as your value does.
Landcruiser 300 Preview | 4WD 7 Seater Large SUV | Coming Soon to Downtown Toyota
Enhanced performance
Sporting a brand new V6 3.3L Diesel twin-turbo engine and transmission across all grades, the LandCruiser 300 is engineered to be lighter, more responsive and stronger. With 227kW of power and 700Nm of torque it has a braked towing capacity of 3500kg. All that strength coupled with exceptional off road stability and 4WD technology means it will perform where others won’t go.
Upgraded luxury
The newest LandCruiser variants, the Sahara ZX and GR Sport build on the comfort and luxury you’ve come to expect from the legendary Sahara. But don’t worry, all variants are packed with sophisticated technology designed to help assist you in whatever journey you’re planning
What’s different about the Toyota LC300 Series?
The Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series will offer vastly increased levels of safety, luxury and connectivity.
The exciting part is, this is a complete development update from Toyota. The first for the LandCruiser in over 14 years!
There's also improved seat comfort, a bigger central touch-screen infotainment system and loads of entertainment options for second- and third-row passengers – including a Wi-Fi-enabled 11.6-inch rear entertainment touch-screen.
High-grade models will get a big 12.3-inch touch-screen infotainment system, 14-speaker JBL audio system, woodgrain trim and a small in-car fridge.
There has been a complete look and feel overhaul, with particular focus on exponentially increasing the interior comfort whilst at the same time enhancing the engineering to deliver the most lightweight, powerful and precise LandCruiser ever!
How does the LandCruiser 300 Series compare to the 200 Series?
It’s a completely re-imagined offering.
New Engine
Yes the 200 Series is a V8 and the 300 Series took the decision to operate with an all-new 3.3-litre twin-turbo diesel V6, which will replace the existing 4.5-litre V8 - but for very good reason.
The new V6 engine will deliver 227kW of power paired with world-class innovations in welding and engine placement mean that there is more torque, power, towing capacity and speed with this engine.
New Suspension
Toyota says the new suspension structure that differs from the 200 delivers a "giant leap forward in 4WD performance" thanks to increased wheel articulation, making it "the most capable LandCruiser ever".
Despite offering improved body rigidity, the 300 Series is not only lighter than the 200 Series but brings better weight distribution and a lower centre of gravity thanks in part to an aluminium roof but mostly the smaller, repositioned V6 engines.
New Weight
However, the kerb weight of the new model has dropped by up to 200kg on some models, whilst also adding a host of new technologies.
Less Emissions
Importantly there is also less emissions and the series tout an impressive 8.9L/100km on the combined cycle, or 7.6 litres per 100km on the highway.
What are the LC300 Series top of the line models?
Say hello to the all new LandCruiser GR Sport and LandCruiser Sahara ZX.
Landcruiser 300 Preview | 4WD 7 Seater Large SUV | Coming Soon to Downtown Toyota
Sahara, Sahara ZX and GR Sport pre-production models shown. Final range and specifications may differ from those depicted.
Get to know the GR Sport and Sahara ZX
Developed as a base vehicle for the Dakar Rally the GR Sport is the LandCruiser at its absolute best. Created to be the ultimate 4WD it’s at home on rough trails and off-road environments thanks to an enhanced drivetrain and intelligent suspension system. The Sahara ZX adds graceful styling plus first and outer second row heated and ventilated seats, hands-free tailgate with a kick sensor, and a torque-sensing limited-slip differential on the rear axle. The peak of comfort and luxury, it’s at home everywhere from off-road tracks to highway touring.
10 LandCruiser 300 Series Fun facts
Here's our lists of fun facts you may not know about the Toyota LandCruiser;
- Originally nicknamed the ‘Toyota BJ’. Built in 1951 it was quickly named the Toyota Jeep, but thanks to its B-type engine and the original name, the nickname BJ stuck…
- The first 13 LandCruisers in Australia were sent straight into battle. Carrying heavy duty machinery into the impossible conditions of Kosciuszco National Park for the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme.
- The longest drive of all time was done in a LandCruiser – travelling 741,065 Kms over 30 years Longest drive of all time 692,227km
- Emil and Liliana Schmid spent almost 30 years travelling the world non stop. Their LandCruiser 60 has been to over 180 countries and territories.
- The LandCruiser got 1st & 2nd at the 1996 Dakar (Unmodified Diesel Class) which is the most gruelling rally in the world, by travelling 8497Kms over 15 days.
- The Japanese police were the first ever customer of the LandCruiser, adopting it as their patrol car in 1951
- The original price of the LandCruiser was $2930!
- It took 30 years to sell the first 1 million LandCruisers globally (1981), and only 9 more years to sell the 2nd million (1990).
- The number 1 song when LandCruisers first landed in Australia was Too Young by Nat King Cole
- The LandCruiser is Toyota’s longest running name plate
How safe are Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series models?
Safety isn’t compromised in the LandCruiser 300 series. Every LandCruiser 300 variant gets Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of intelligent safety features designed to help you drive safer. On some variants Multi-Terrain Select, with Automatic Mode helps you to navigate the roughest of off-road terrains.
The Toyota Safety Sense package includes Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection, as well as active cruise control, auto high beam, lane-leap technology — and lane-trace assist in some models.
As Chief Engineer for the LC300 series Takami Yokoo says this of the safety;
"The heart of the LandCruiser lies in bringing safety and security to all passengers...that will get you home safely, no matter where you go"
The LandCruiser’s unbeatable spirit means it’s been part of thousands of success stories over the last 70 years both on the world stage and in the back paddock. The LandCruiser 300 will build upon the quality, ruggedness and capability it took to create such legendary stories. Imagine where yours will take you.
