Boxy is Back: The Design and Grille of the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser
The new 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser brings back the boxy design that was popular in the 1980s. With its straight lines and sharp angles, the Land Cruiser is a refreshing departure from the curvy designs of recent years. This angular look not only pays homage to the past but also gives the SUV a rugged and imposing presence. The circular headlights and air vents stand out against the rigid geometry of the vehicle. While some may find the contrast a bit severe, it adds a touch of fun to the overall design. Compared to the higher trim levels, the base Land Cruiser trim offers a more striking grille. With its wiry appearance and negative space, the grille is a standout feature that distinguishes the Land Cruiser from other vehicles on the road.
Impressive Hybrid Powertrain: The i-Force Max
Under the hood, the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser is equipped with the i-Force Max hybrid powertrain. This 2.4-liter turbo engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and an integrated electric motor, delivers a total of 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. While it may not be as efficient as a traditional hybrid, the powertrain offers a smooth and responsive driving experience. The extra torque compensates for the slight decrease in horsepower compared to the previous Land Cruiser generation. Whether cruising around town, accelerating quickly, or navigating rough terrain, the Land Cruiser’s powertrain performs admirably.
A Throwback Interior
The interior of the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 1958 is reminiscent of the 1980s, with an abundance of cloth and plastic materials. The simplicity of the cabin may not be to everyone’s taste, but it does have its charm. The budget rental-car spec is evident in the abundance of gray and the lack of soft-touch surfaces. While it may not be luxurious, the interior does have some benefits. The cloth seats are surprisingly comfortable in warm weather, offering good airflow and preventing excessive sweating. However, it remains to be seen how well the cloth upholstery holds up over time.
Improved Suspension for a More Comfortable Ride
One of the notable improvements in the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser is its suspension. Unlike the previous generation, which had a tendency to bounce and dip excessively, the new Land Cruiser provides a more stable and comfortable ride. Braking no longer results in items sliding off the front passenger seat, and acceleration no longer causes the nose to rise dramatically. These changes make for a much more enjoyable driving experience, particularly during daily commutes. The improved suspension also shines when venturing off-road. Whether tackling gravel roads or challenging terrains, the Land Cruiser handles with ease and maintains stability.
A Capable SUV for Light Off-Roading
While the 1958 Land Cruiser may not be as capable as its higher-trim counterparts, it still offers enough capability for light off-roading. Whether navigating to a campsite or a cabin in the woods, the Land Cruiser can handle the task with ease. It comes equipped with full-time four-wheel drive, rear and center locking differentials, crawl control, and various terrain modes. The SUV’s eagerness to tackle challenging terrains is evident, making it a suitable choice for adventure-seekers. However, those planning more intense off-road excursions may want to consider the additional equipment available on the higher trim levels.
Conclusion
The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser presents an exciting option for those seeking a rugged SUV with an angular design. While not as capable as its predecessors, the Land Cruiser still offers impressive off-road features and a comfortable driving experience. The hybrid powertrain provides ample power, and the improved suspension ensures a smooth ride both on and off the pavement. Despite its basic interior, the Land Cruiser 1958 has its charm and offers a budget-friendly option for those in need of a capable daily driver that can handle light off-roading.