Toyota Land Cruiser driven: In a world of soft SUVs this is still a proper 4x4 - but can it dethrone the Defender?

In a world awash with SUVs, it takes something special to stand out. Thankfully, a handful of models still deliver genuine off-road capability and rugged appeal for country buyers and adventure seekers.One of them is the Toyota Land Cruiser, a bona fide legend among hard-working 4x4s.Over more than 70 years, the Land Cruiser has earned a formidable reputation for carrying intrepid drivers across some of the harshest landscapes across the globe.An all-new ninth-generation model arrived in 2024, with comprehensive updates inside, outside and underneath. And earlier this year, the first mild-hybrid diesel versions entered UK showrooms.While the market for proper off-roaders is hardly overflowing with choices, the remaining contenders have built loyal followings. The Ineos Grenadier is rapidly gaining cult status, but it is the Land Rover Defender that remains the best-selling and most sought-after model in this rugged class.So, can Toyota challenge the Defender's dominance? Freda Lewis-Stempel got behind the wheel for an epic Icelandic adventure to see how Japan's famous 4x4 fared. Freda Lewis-Stempel drove the Toyota Land Cruiser across Iceland's Highlands in the ultimate test of its 4x4 prowess? Here's how it fared... It won't be mistaken for a Chelsea Tractor In my opinion, Toyota has completely smashed the new-generation Land Cruiser exterior design.It draws heavily from the classic Land Cruiser silhouette, referencing the early 40 and 70 Series Heavy Duty models in particular.A long bonnet, short front overhang, upright windscreen, and tight, boxy cabin combine with high-set headlights (the round headlights on the VX model look particularly retro and cool) and a classic Toyota logo centred front and rear. The result is a Land Cruiser that looks like both a modern and a properly retro-inspired utilitarian 4x4.At five metres long, two metres wide, and almost two metres tall, the Land Cruiser is a big car, although slightly smaller than the five-door Defender 110 and the Grenadier.It's imposing, authoritative, and rugged. It looks like it means business, yet retains retro charm and affability. It is far less flashy than a Defender and definitely not as glitzy as a Mercedes G-Class.The Land Cruiser is a 4x4 that should never be mistaken for a 'Chelsea Tractor' – and that is meant as the highest compliment. Far less flashy than Chelsea Tractors like the Mercedes G-Wagon or the Land Rover Defender, the Land Cruiser looks like the workhorse it isJoin the discussionShould there be more proper 4x4s on the market, or is the future simply for soft, road-bias SUVs?What's your view?Built to go off-road As standard, all models come with permanent four-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission – as a rugged off-roader should, right?In true 4x4 fashion, the Land Cruiser retains body-on-frame construction, but this generation features the new GA-F platform for greater strength and rigidity. On top of this, the new Land Cruiser is the first with electrically assisted rack-and-pinion steering, which eliminates the steering kickback typical of older hydraulic systems.The front suspension has been enhanced with an independent double-wishbone setup using lighter, higher-strength components to improve off-road comfort.New systems include Multi-Terrain Select – which adjusts steering, drive force, and hydraulic brake control across Mud, Sand, Rock, Deep Snow, Dirt, and Auto modes – and Crawl Control, which maintains a low, stable speed during tough off-roading.There's also Downhill Assist Control, which lets the vehicle pick its way down steep terrain at low speeds without wheel-locking. I can confirm that there is seemingly no terrain the Land Cruiser can't conquer - and comfortably This Land Cruiser generation is the first with electrically assisted rack-and-pinion steering, removing the kickback typical of older hydraulic systems Unsurprisingly all Land Cruisers come with permanent four-wheel drive Even on snowy mountains, glaciers, river beds, and black sand we didn't need to use low range or dedicated drive modes because it is so capable Icelandic locals give the Land Cruiser the seal of approval as one in four Toyotas sold in Iceland is a Land CruiserHow did it handle some of the world's harshest terrain?Off-road, there is seemingly nothing this 4x4 can't conquer – or at least nothing along Iceland's rough, unpaved F-roads leading to the inner highlands that it couldn't handle.And these F-roads are far from gentle tracks: I drove the Land Cruiser up crumbling vertical inclines, across deep river crossings with unseen riverbeds, over jagged rocks, down snow-covered mountain passes, across moving glaciers, and over wet sand.In fact, it was so capable that we spent almost the entire trip without needing low range or differential locks.High ground clearance makes light work of almost every obstacle, while the raised driving position gives an uninterrupted view over the terrain ahead.The electronically improved steering and new GA-F platform combine to create an off-road machine that is incredibly responsive and precise. Feedback was exact at all speeds.The Land Cruiser turns a daunting off-road adventure into a gloriously comfortable, confidence-inducing walk in the park. It's a true legend out there.The locals agree, too: one in four Toyotas sold in Iceland is a Land Cruiser, and older generations are still everywhere on the roads. The Land Cruiser's 202bhp is plenty to make it responsive underfoot with no lag feeding onto junctions or roundabouts As well as it drives you should be aware that its mpg isn't good: It returns an official 26.4 mpg. With diesel prices what they are that's an expensive re-fuel The Land Cruiser isn't as plush as a Defender to drive but it is designed to be a off-roader and so its on-road comfort is still impressiveThe Land Cruiser's on-road performance The mild-hybrid 2.8-litre diesel engine (the only option in the UK) isn't the most powerful on paper at 202bhp (compared to the Defender 110's maximum 385bhp), but it is very responsive underfoot with no lag when pulling out at junctions or roundabouts.You can still hear the engine working, despite the noise-cancelling measures Toyota has put in place.Otherwise, the Land Cruiser eases through the gears nicely, feels surprisingly smooth on faster roads, and remains settled at higher speeds.On tighter corners, it is more manoeuvrable than you might expect for a vehicle of its size and weight, even if it lacks the ultimate road polish of a Defender. However, for a ladder-frame 4x4, Toyota has done a cracking job of making it behave on tarmac.If I were to place it on a sliding scale between a Defender (SUV poise and a luxurious ride) and an Ineos Grenadier (a sublime off-roader that is harder to love on-road), it sits much closer to the Defender.It doesn't feel quite as plush or cushioned as a Defender but considering it is first and foremost a hardcore off-roader, you can easily cover hundreds of miles on UK roads without feeling weary.Land Cruiser interiorThe Land Cruiser's cabin is functional, durable and well-made. It looks and feels hardy, yet remains extremely comfortable and spacious.Thanks to the boxy cabin shape and smart seating layout, interior space is fantastic for five adults. Large rectangular windows keep the cabin light, offsetting the dark leather interior which could otherwise feel a bit sombre.Toyota has maximised space with clever design touches, including thinner front seatbacks that allow for generous rear legroom and knee room.I spent days sitting in these seats driving over some of the toughest surfaces in the world without experiencing any discomfort, aches or pains. The seat cushioning, side bolstering, and overall seat structure keep you securely in place without feeling restricted.The power-reclining front seats are heated, as is the steering wheel, while higher trims offer ventilated front seats as well.I am notoriously fussy about car seats – mostly because modern ergonomic designs tend to take a one-size-fits-all approach – but the Land Cruiser's seats get my full approval.Practical utilitarian features include sturdy grab handles for climbing into the cabin, as well as padded knee pads and door shoulders for extra brace protection off-road. The top of the door panel is even scooped out so the driver can rest their elbow comfortably.All of these details show how thoughtfully the cabin was designed. The Land Cruiser's interior marries is functionality and durability with space and high-quality materials No shortage of buttons: The twin 12.3-inch screens are paired with physical switches, toggles, or push buttons so everything Extremely comfortable seats: The seat cushioning, side bolstering, and overall seat structure keeps all passengers padded and in placeThe rest of the interior maintains this practical theme. While you get a 12.3-inch driver's display and a 12.3-inch central touchscreen with 'Hey Toyota' voice control, every main feature is paired with physical switches, toggles or push buttons.The overall feel is pleasantly old-school and functional, featuring steering wheel shortcuts for driver assistance, tactile dash controls for climate, and dedicated off-road pads next to the gear selector.Boot space is generous: 1,062 litres loaded to the roof, expanding to 2,000 litres with the rear seats folded flat. That easily beats a Jeep Wrangler and matches a Defender depending on trim.There is very little to gripe about inside. It may not offer the plush luxury of a Defender but it is built for actual working life – not just for driving three children and a Cockapoo around Chelsea.How much does the Land Cruiser cost?The Land Cruiser is expensive – there's no getting around that.It starts at £80,945, which is roughly £15,000 more than an entry-level Defender 110 (£64,315) and the Ineos Grenadier Station Wagon (£63,495).However, at that price point, virtually every feature comes standard as the UK only gets the top-spec Invincible trim. You get a head-up display, dual 12.3-inch screens, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a 14-speaker JBL audio system, roof rails, a sunroof and a comprehensive suite of ADAS safety systems.The single diesel engine option does push running costs up, returning an official 26.4 mpg. With diesel prices remaining high, filling up this 4x4 will cost a fair bit at the pumps.On the plus side, it comes with Toyota's up-to-ten-year or 100,000-mile warranty programme, backed by Toyota's reputation as one of the world's most reliable carmakers. The Land Cruiser is very expensive - it starts at £80,945 which is more than a Defender. However if you want a true 4x4 that will last the course, is unbeatable off-road and good on-road and have the money then spend it on thisThe Cars & Motoring verdictMy favourite vehicles are proper 4x4s. I grew up with them and feel completely at home in a rugged, body-on-frame machine.Tackling Iceland's Mars-like landscape in the new Land Cruiser was about as good as off-roading gets. It is difficult to imagine many vehicles doing the job better. I would recommend it without hesitation to farmers, country drivers and anyone who regularly ventures off the beaten track. It feels engineered to withstand decades of hard use. While the hefty purchase price and running costs will inevitably put some buyers off, the lower-cost Commercial version broadens its appeal considerably. If your budget stretches to one, you are unlikely to regret it. It looks fantastic, drives superbly and offers a welcome alternative to the sea of Defenders filling Britain's roads. Toyota Land Cruiser: Specs at a glance On sale: nowPrice: £80,945 DIMENSIONSLength: 4,925 mmWidth: 1,980 mmHeight: 1,935 mmWeight: 3,100kg (gross)Boot capacity (backrests up): 620LPERFORMANCEDrivetrain: Mild hybrid diesel Engine: 2.8-litre, four-cylinder in-line turbodieselDrive: Permanent four-wheel drive Max power: 202bhpAcceleration (0-62mph): 12.3 secondsTop speed: 105mphTurning circle: 6.4 metres Fuel economy: 26.4mpg OFF-ROAD CAPABILITIESGround clearance: 205.3–215.3mm Wading depth: 700mm at low speedAssists: Crawl control and Downhill Assist Control CARS & MOTORING: ON TEST