I think the best news from this vehicle is that it excites me that the new 4Runner will be cheaper: which is what more people will buy.

Nice video and instructions Jon.What model is the best for land cruiser?

With mid 50’s; would one get the 1958 edition or a TRD Off Road 4Runner

Gotta hand it to Ford for opening manufacturer's eyes by proving people want smaller, cheaper, utilitarian trucks with the Maverick and making the old school boxy design relevant again with the Bronco. I was sick of seeing trucks/SUVS get bigger, curvier, more expensive, and luxurious every year. Powertrain aside (curse those EPA regulators) I think the trunk/SUV industry is heading in the right direction

Thanks Jon! My wife is keeping GX, but I will decide between the LC and the 6th Gen 4runner, patiently waiting.

Hey Jon great video, regarding the pros and cons. I know u mentioned wanting a trd pro or trailhunter version of the land cruiser prado/250 series, but i was thinking that toyota needs to give us a gr sport version of this land cruiser. the 300 series overseas has a gr sport and at first glance, it looks scary as heck (until the new tundra trd pro was unveiled and a lot of people got turned off by how big that was lol). So hopefully because this LC is a global product, they will make a gr sport version just because the north american market has the tundra, sequoia, tacoma, and the 4runner to have the trd pros and trailhunters down the road.

Good video Jon. The 2023 4Runner is the last of the greats!!! It seems like all auto makers are making cheaper vehicles and asking for more money.

I think you’re spot on with your analysis. It really is a fantastic looking vehicle, very clean lines. I do wish we could of at least seen a V6.

Good pro and con review. Thanks for taking the time to dissect what you saw and present it. 💯agree on the hood prop. No need to bring that back.

Great content as always, Jon. Keep it up!

So far the Prado has never disappoints, cousin just sold his 2001 this last November after 21 years of trouble free driving.

Will there be a gold/earth color similar to the 2024 Lexus GX 550?

what does the suspension look like? F&R independent Coil ? lifting capability? spring/strut spacer? i wish there was more info on these items, if they are billing this as a " build it to your liking" model, i think they would make these things a given, like the Tacoma from gen 1 through gen 3.

No reason for tumble second row seats unless there is a third row. Otherwise use the 4Runner setup where the seat bottom flips forward and the back of the second row folds flat.

Great video. I saw somewhere else that the dimensions are the same as an FJ cruiser. Not sure how this is possible. Love the FJ but was hoping for more room from the LC.

Great video! Think you hit many of my gripes on both sides. I have some others also. As you mentioned, the non folding flat floor is a big miss for me and my needs.

Great list. I agree with what you said about the base model. I do think the engine is actually genius and do think people chuck their wheels and or tires right away anyway, so I don’t really care much about the tires being small. Honestly I love the return to what the Land Cruiser was, and never should have left. Leave the huge size, super fancy suspension, and ultra luxury to the Lexus. At least now the LC and the Lexus have a reason to both exist, and this is a return to a vehicle that is actually drivable around town in an easier fashion, and is actually affordable to a few of us

what I'd like to see 1. split tailgate like they've had on US Landcruisers for ages. 2. front locker 3. 4.7:1 transfer case or at least a single crawler gear 4. fold flat rear 5. on board air

Isn’t the sway bar disconnect merely 1/2 KDSS (front only) that is electronically activated?

So glad you called out the lack of a flat space in the back... I like to off road and sleep in the back of the completely flat space in my 2001 Nissan Pathfinder. It is now leaking oil and I'm looking for the perfect replacement, this comes close but the lack of a flat space to sleep in is a dealbreaker...

Good perspective. A big thumbs up.

Totally agree on the large screen for the 58 edition. Would at least be great to have the option to upgrade to that larger screen. Me, I prefer cloth seats to leather so the larger screen would be all I need. I just put a down payment yesterday to get "on the list" to order.

Great video! I feel like they did a great job on most things, but I think they really missed the boat on a straight 6 engine option. The 60/62 series had a straight 6, and straight 6s are smoother and torquier than a V6. So they could have had a more refined engine that paid more homage the the old LCs. My 2 cents

Awesome content as always! Hit the hammer on the nail per usual with the pros/cons. My main concern is what this means for Toyota 4x4's moving forward engine wise. I'd imagine most of these decisions are coming from a standpoint of meeting future fleet emission regulations in the US (likely why we are getting a different LC). Also, how does Toyota make a 6th gen 4R that stays below the LC price point but also improves on the 5th gen? I'm being patient with the 4R news but I'm anxious to say the least.

How about the volume knob? I really hope they change that for production. Best place for radio controls would be down near the shifter/MTS/Diff lock. Steal from Mazda, your hand dangles over the screen controls and volume during casual driving. No need to lean forward and hunt for switches while trying to keep your eyes on the road.

The new Land Cruiser looked interesting for about a few minutes. Then I decided to keep my 5th gen 4Runner.

Can you drive with your hand in the bottom center of the steering wheel? If not, that is a major bummer.

Good job listing and summarizing Jon - it is a great looking vehicle that could have been much better in a number of ways, especially (in my mind at least) the drive train. But hey, Toyota is giving the US car market what it sees is the best option for them, given the direction we are heading unfortunately.

We have the 300 series, it's called the LX600. It's still really expensive. It didn't make sense to keep a Toy that was almost the same price.

Great video. Well spoken!

I live in Australia and we have the Prado and the huge Landcruiser. Is this considered the Prado?

Agreed in general. I think going with the prop hood could be part of a more manual, low tech approach that might be a valid concept for a lower tier or retro styling, with fewer extra motors. Also, I get the impression this was designed with the solid state batteries in mind, expecting to have them on hand by now, and what they did to accommodate the current battery tech is to raise the bed a few inches. (FWIW, I think the whole hybrid max idea was done with the new batteries in mind, we're just not there yet.)

Good video JON !! Now u have me changing colors 😀

Can you do a video on the new LX

I wish I never sold my '97 80 series, the one thing I just knew you were going to say was the rear split gate. I miss that. I think my wife's gx460 will be as popular as the 60's and 80's are now in about 10 years. I hate to be a curmudgeon, but I just like the locking rear diff, CDL and the seats. I looks good but its too teched out. I may get the seats and stick them in my 62!

Being an original owner of a 97, 80 series my roots are definitely old school. However it would be nice to see one of the models probably the 58 with some more versatile features. Maybe removable doors and a removable soft top to compete with the bronco and jeep. Toyota has always been basic with there design and upgrade features but I think that would have really made a more pronounced appearance especially for the Landcruiser.

Great review. BUT please bring back the horizontally-split rear tail-gate: so practical and so sensible.

You bring up some good points. Having had a 74 FJ40 in 1974, I have some opinions. The hood strut deal is going back to old school. Plus simplicity. Second, even my old 74 FJ40 had “vinyl” seats, much easier to keep clean. I think they are keeping the base LC purposefully simple for the real off road community. My guess would be only about 20% of owners will actually do any serious modifications and again as we know, that will effect warranties. Not crazy about hybrid, living in Florida if you do any serious off reading you will encounter water and sometimes pretty deep water. Water and electricity do not go together. Don’t like the rear area with the elevated platform for the battery and unable to fold things flat. In my current 5th gen 4runner love that everything folds flat and use the factory slide out tray all the time. I agree with you on the lack of additional switches on such a vehicle. Once you add aftermarket wheels and tires I think that alleged 27 mpg will disappear pretty quickly. Then there is the issue of reliability with this relatively new engine drivetrain hybrid system. Will it hold up ? Who knows. I do know there are quite a few old Land Cruisers and 4 runners with 200, 300,000 plus miles roaming around, which is quite a testament to old school reliability. But, this is 2023 and a new world is upon us and we must make some changes. To those that did not grow up with the early models like I did, it is easier to swallow. All this said, would I like to have a new one? Maybe, as my 74 FJ40 in what I call baby blue was my first real off road vehicle. If I get a new one it will probably be my last and it would be kinda fitting to have another in the blue color again. But, I could never do in a new one what I did in the old one, trust me. Great memories. 😊

I wonder if like South East Toyota did with TRD Offroad premium 4Runners, maybe there would be a 1958 with some of the premium options.

Seems like a good vehicle. I will never buy the first year of any vehicle. Even Toyota has issues and comes out with improvements the 2nd year. I also want to see what the 4Runner looks like. Having a 5th gen 4Runner, I'm not in a big hurry to jump into a new model. Mine is already modified how I like it...I guess we'll see...

Back to basics! Love it! Hope they sell it in Sweden…Thx for the rewiew…

It would be great when they offer folks a single trim and then give you the options to put on whatever you want from the factory instead of offering 4 or 5 trims that always have something missing from a trim level you want to ultimately buy. Basically offer configure to order and let the buyer build their vehicle. :)

I agree with you on the lack of aux switches, big screen and all terrain tires. I love the aux switch setup in the new ranger raptor. I also don't understand how the cheapest and most expensive models have the round lights and the mid range have rectangular lights. It would be nice to have both headlight choices in every trim.

I'd like to see at least jump seats, and a fold down tailgate. My use would be to be able to carry 6 minimum, and flip a tailgate to serve food, work on stuff, sit and have a cold one.

Why not offer the diesel V6 twin turbo? It’s available in the LC 300, so it would also fit in the LC 250.

100% agree on all your gripes. Hopefully with packaging we can get the larger screen and softex seats. If so, going to sell my 99 LX 470 for this one!

Is there a third row option ?

You know what the most under the radar miss is? Not having a shelf above the glove box on the passenger side like the Tacoma has. My older rav4 has one and it’s such a convenient place to put things. Every vehicle should have one.

Hoping ARB has front bumpers, side rails, suspension upgrades, skid plates, etc. for this model Land Cruiser 250. Wanting to see ARB upgrades ASAP! Move spare to rear swing rack of HD bumper and install a second gas tank to increase off-road range. Larger tires gives it roughly 12" of ground clearance. I have a 2013 FJ Cruiser (6spd) that I love, but am looking at this new Land Cruiser. My FJ is easier to get into than a 4Runner and I'm hoping the new LC 250 w/out all the contortions someone 6'-1" has to go thru for a 4Runner/Tacoma. Boxy is Better! (Also wish it had split rear "ambulance " doors or FJ swing door w/tire mount!)

Hey TRD John nice video 👍

Totally agree with you with all your suggestions.😊

I feel the same about that last dislike. No V6, even as NA premium option ... not even for the 1958, is a miss for Toyota.

A lot of think people say they missed on would just add to the cost. Most of these trucks will never leave the pavement

When does it hit dealer lots again?

To me the yellow pops more and i like it more then the other colors

Thank you for your review! Toyota needs to man up and figure it out. Your honest feedback in this video IS very appreciated!

Great review.

On it looking better than the 300,you are correct Jon.i also believe the same.

I'm curious to see if they made the new Land cruiser flat towable like Jeep.

I get 22is or 20 MPGs on my Tundra23 of normal, heavy driving ... 🤔

It's really a Prado, but 🤷‍♂️ I prefer the center console in this over the gx550, I'm just sort of confused why the separation in drivetrains considering they are the same car.

Needs the tdi diesel as option that they offer in Europe and other markets. Also in Europe they will offer 5 seat and a 3 row version. I drove previous version of Prado with diesel and it’s a gem.

Great review, I agree on many levels. I would add it is beyond stupid they didn't add a second EVM onto the rear like the rav4 or highlander, or make it even a prime. I have a 2019 Rav4 hybrid and it is great. Stupid they didn't add a second the Rav4 is great.

Less than 9” GC. No rear mounted tire option (currently available in AU). No TTV6 option in like a GR sport model. No Front locker. Option for headlights for LC main trim level (ie you pick between the 2) No ThIRD ROW!!!!! Make it removable like 100 series. Also have a Broncho ear dirt package with a solid from axle. That would be game over like 80 series is legendary off road. Split tailgate- I absolutely love this about my hundy

Great review would agree with you...just wonder if the increased electronics will be the vehicles downfall. Price of vehicles is redicullous so hopefully Toyota keep it as promised. It looks a bit Landrover Defender. Be great to see a head to head with Defender 110 and the Inneos Grenadier

So when I’m done I’m back to 80k plus when I make it what I want from a LC. I think I’ll be fine in my ‘79

Ooh, ooh, the yellow! I'd get the yellow one hands down. Plus, it was my mother's favorite color so it would be a daily reminder of her.

1958 traildust on top list!

Love the diecast collection.

My only issues with this truck are really the digital gauges and the thousand buttons on the wheel and dash. Smaller display is fine. I'm not 100% sold on the hybrid but could be convinced. Also the rear 3/4 design maybe looks a little watered down? But that's coming from someone who's been daily driving a 30 year old 70 series in the US because not a single modern vehicle speaks to me till now.

I like cloth seats and I wish it came with steel wheels like on the upcoming base Taco

Time will tell, but hybrid drivetrains may be the most desirable for off-roading. That +400 lbft of torque sounds good, but when you realize that half of that is coming in at 0rpm, it’s going to feel like an even higher torque number. It also means you could have smooth hill descent controlled by regen on the electric motor. This would be much smoother and more reliable than ABS controlled descent. Now if we could convince Toyota to give us a factory option to use the hybrid battery as a power source….

Next model year hopefully will do some little improvements and more trims also some revealed Land Cruisers at the Worldwide reveal had the Toyo A/T that the Lexus Overtrail comes with that is all Toyota needs to offer on the Land Cruiser tire wise either standard or as an option

Can’t wait to have one 😍😍😍

Liked the review, I have similar likes/dislikes as you. Any plug-in hybrid model planned or in the future line-up, you are aware of?

No V6, no purchase. Its that simple.

I think is a good truck that 4cl give enough power i think, they just forgot to put the cooler in the central console

Finally someone gets it right! Nice video! It only comes with a 4 Cylinder 2.8 ltr turbo Diesel where I am, and that engine is not as relaiable as Toyota's petrol engines! That's why I'm going to keep my FJ. I also think this could have been the next gen FJ as it looks more like FJ rather than the previous generation Prado!

Good I love ❤ it

Another plus for me is 6600 lbs pulling capacity and another negative is 8.7" ground clearance - about the same as RAV4

No V6, and no split tailgate!

I actually wish they had cloth seats in the land cruiser spec, or swaybar disconnect + sunroof in the 1958

What is the general size of the Land Cruiser vs the current 4Runner. Hard to tell on video.

I like the small screen. I wish it was available on the upgraded models.

Trail dust FTW! Unfortunately not available in the 1958 version that I ordered which was only white, black and gray, so I picked the gray. IMO, the hybrid component fills in extra power/torque instead of the v6 I think a pretty good choice. Agree wheel/tire combo not good. would prefer 17" wheels too. I don't mind cloth, but at that $ it should at least have the fake leather as an option. Competition not sitting still. Have you checked out the new the Hyundai Sante Fe? That looks great inside and out.

nice summary

Hit the pros and cons perfect.

Hey @TRD JON, Here are my thoughts on this: Design is all FJ60 and 62. Can't understand those that refer to Land Rover or Bronco, nothing in common IMHO... Also don't understand the LC300 cry... it is same frame, same wheel base, same underpinnings and in the case of GX550 it's the same engine (although in Australia and Middle East it has V6 twin turbo diesel). Yes, I too think the solution with only front stabilizer bar disconnect is a great idea exactly for those who will modify it. Falling flat for the second row is a must for me and that is a miss but it is a hybrid and that's hard to do with a battery underneath. Aux switches would be great too and it's not hard for Toyota to do it. Gas struts for the bonnet - yes, yes and yes, although I understand that it is part of the way to keep costs down. Same for the screen and softex seats - it adds up on a pile and next you know it's a several thousand more. Tyres? Again it's a price point thing. Yes, they might be a through away but they have to sell it with some tyres on it right? And if they put 33s price goes up. And also most people that will modify it will replace those factory tyres anyway no matter if they are 31s or 33s. I get the V8 cry but big displacement n/a engine concept is dead in todays auto industry, economy and ecology regulations won't allow it anymore. These ICE engines are one of the last of their kind.

Hi Jon...What do you think about this looking exactly like a 2008 Nissan Xterra? Nissan is so good and coming up with new things but they never follow or advertise enough, the way they run their company is just horrible.. This is what a modern Nissan Xterra should look like if Nissan paid enough attention to it.

The Toyota site I'm currently looking at still have the 27mpg

With currently no mention of a TRD version, I bet they will do like the Bronco with the Raptor and have a larger engine version for that one and it will then creep back to the 80k mark. 3 liter version I think. I still wonder where this leaves the new 4Runner whenever that will be, Toyota seems to have really committed to this platform and 2.4 engine which is reassuring at least. Tacoma still excitedly me most but this is a close second.

Love It

The small tires to save mpg

The pop rod I think was done purposefully. Land Cruiser quite literally means Reliability for 10+ years, and I guess it comes down to the small things such as a pop rod

I would basically want a simplified 1st edition. Don’t need the fancy seats, rock rails, roof rack etc. But would love the upgraded infotainment, the color matched front end, and the sway bar disconnect. I rather like the cloth seats and the other stuff you can add later as needs arise. Also I wish there were more color options on the 58, that being said, Meteor shower is a beautiful color.

in the previous video I poo-poo'd the looks as too much like a 4Runner. In this one, you show a brief glimpse of the Trail Dust and I'm now seeing something that catches my attention. Thanks. Great work.

This design looks way better then none us models !

This Prado in the US really doesn't leave any room for the 4Runner. When's the last time a manufacturer made a "better" vehicle for cheaper? I really don't know what to expect from the new 4Runner.

I love prop hoods. KISS

It's a turbocharged 4 cylinder! What a joke of a launch.