Following a string of spy shots, leaks and teaser videos, the long-awaited Toyota Land Cruiser 300 has finally been unboxed. Replacing the LC 200 as Toyota’s new ‘Alpha 4×4’, the Land Cruiser 300 moves over to a new platform called GA-F. Although it’s based around the TNGA modular architecture, the vehicle retains the tough ladder frame construction that has always been a hallmark of its predecessors, but sheds a bit of weight to help achieve Toyota’s target of 10 percent lower CO2 emissions.
South African fans won’t have to wait long to get behind the wheel of the Land Cruiser 300 as it’s due to be launched locally at the beginning of August.
As had been widely rumoured, the LC 300 also ushers in an all-new 3,3-litre V6 twin-turbo diesel engine, which produces 227 kW and 700 N.m. It’s joined by a Lexus-derived 3,5-litre V6 twin-turbo petrol engine that’s rated at 305 kW and 650 N.m. Both engines are paired with a new 10-speed automatic gearbox. Toyota says it will also offer a normally aspirated V6 petrol in some markets, and this will be paired with a six-speed automatic.
Underneath the new Land Cruiser 300 you’ll find a redesigned suspension system which is said to offer even better wheel articulation and, off the beaten track, owners are now assisted by a Multi Terrain Select system, which automatically selects the best driving mode for the conditions at hand. Another tech highlight is the Multi-Terrain Monitor which displays obstacles hidden in front of the vehicle.
There are also plenty of gizmos to keep occupants and other road users safe in the ‘civilised’ world, including an emergency steering and crash avoidance function as well as a pre-collision system that detects cyclists and pedestrians as well as oncoming vehicles at intersections.
The Land Cruiser 300’s cabin looks a lot more modern than that of its predecessor, but Toyota has avoided the temptation to pack the dashboard full of screens – there is a high-mounted central infotainment touchscreen but the instruments remain analogue.
As for the exterior styling, Toyota is offering two rather different styling themes, with the new GR Sport model distinguished by mostly black trimmings and Toyota block lettering on the grille, while other models in the range feature a grey grille with horizontal slats and chrome trim on the mirrors and foglight housings.
Watch this space for more information on the local pricing and specifications closer to launch.
