I Took This 2024 Land Cruiser Off-Roader and Discovered Its Surprising Secret From A Throwback That's Exemplary for Today

The return of the Toyota Land Cruiser to the U.S. market has generated plenty of buzz, and for good reason. Toyota’s well known off-road vehicle has been completely reimagined for 2024, blending rugged capability with modern technology and a dose of daily-driving comfort. The Land Cruiser 1958 trim, the entry-level model, offers an impressive package at a competitive price point (about $60,000) for such a big vehicle. After spending a week test-driving this SUV, I can confidently say that Toyota has delivered on its promise of creating a versatile and practical vehicle that’s equally suited for adventurous trails and urban commutes.

Let’s look into the details to see what makes the 2024 Land Cruiser 1958 so compelling, and where it falls short.

A Comfortable Ride on Any Terrain

For a body-on-frame vehicle designed with off-road enthusiasts in mind, the 2024 Land Cruiser 1958’s ride quality is surprisingly comfortable. It absorbs bumps and imperfections on the road with ease, offering a smoother experience than competitors like the Ford Bronco or Jeep Wrangler. On highways, the Land Cruiser feels stable and planted, with minimal body roll even on curves. At city speeds, its smaller size (compared to older Land Cruisers or large pickups) makes it far easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces.

Handling is another strong suit. While no one would mistake the Land Cruiser for a sports car, it’s easy to control at highway speeds and performs admirably on winding roads. For an off-road-oriented SUV, it strikes an excellent balance between ruggedness and refinement.

If you're curious about how the Land Cruiser's design and engineering have captured attention despite mixed opinions, check out why the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser is a smash hit with buyers.

Powertrain Performance: Turbocharged Hybrid Muscle

Under the hood, the Land Cruiser 1958 is powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, producing a combined 326 horsepower. This hybrid powertrain is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel-drive system with a locking center differential, low-range gearing, and off-road features like crawl control and hill descent control.

The hybrid system provides ample torque for most driving situations, and acceleration feels strong, especially in city driving and moderate off-road scenarios. However, the electric motor’s boost can feel inconsistent due to the system’s relatively small battery pack. On the highway, the engine cruises effortlessly at low RPMs, contributing to a relaxed driving experience.

One drawback is the engine noise during heavy acceleration. The turbocharged four-cylinder can be quite loud under load, emitting a sound that’s reminiscent of a diesel engine. While I got used to it over the course of my test drive, it’s worth noting for potential buyers who might prioritize a quieter cabin during spirited driving.

For those curious whether the hybrid powertrain truly enhances the Land Cruiser experience, don’t miss this in-depth analysis of how hybrid power might improve the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser.

Interior Comfort and Build Quality

Despite being the base trim, the Land Cruiser 1958 doesn’t skimp on creature comforts. The cloth-trimmed seats are well-padded and supportive, offering a comfortable ride for long journeys. The cabin layout is straightforward and functional, with physical controls for essential features that are easy to reach and operate.

Build quality is another standout feature. As someone with experience in quality control, I was impressed by the fit and finish of the interior. There were no noticeable fabrication defects, and the materials felt durable and well-assembled. While the hard plastics used throughout the cabin may not exude luxury, they are practical for a vehicle designed to handle dirt, mud, and rugged trails.

The 1958 trim also comes with a respectable array of features, including a three-zone automatic climate control system, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The basic sound system punches above its weight, delivering clear audio that’s better than what I’ve experienced in other Toyota vehicles.

For an insider perspective, see how the base trim surprised a veteran Toyota tester.

Technology and Safety

Toyota has equipped the Land Cruiser 1958 with its latest technology suite, including the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 system. This includes advanced driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These systems work seamlessly and add a layer of confidence during both city driving and highway cruising.

The infotainment system, accessed through an 8-inch touchscreen, supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interface is intuitive and responsive, ensuring that drivers can easily stay connected and entertained on the road.

Practicality of the Land Cruiser and Its Utility

When it comes to utility, the Land Cruiser 1958 excels in some areas but falls short in others. It’s fully equipped for towing and comes with attachment points for running boards, rock rails, and a roof rack straight from the factory. Unlike competitors that require numerous costly options to achieve the same level of capability, the Land Cruiser arrives as a complete package.

However, cargo space is a mixed bag. The trunk floor sits quite high, and the overall cargo volume is smaller than one might expect for a vehicle of this size. While it’s adequate for weekend adventures or family road trips, buyers seeking maximum storage capacity may find it lacking.

Interior storage is also limited, with a small glovebox, a modest center console, and minimal underfloor trunk space. For those who carry tools, recovery gear, or other essentials, organizing these items might prove challenging.

If you’re wondering about aftermarket options to enhance utility, explore some of the most popular mods for the Toyota Land Cruiser J250.

Fuel Economy and Range

The Land Cruiser’s hybrid powertrain delivers respectable fuel economy for a vehicle in this class. I averaged 22 miles per gallon in city driving during my test drive, which is better than most off-road-focused SUVs. However, the relatively small fuel tank limits overall range to just over 300 miles. For buyers accustomed to vehicles with longer ranges, this could be a point of frustration, particularly for long-distance road trips or remote off-road excursions.

2024 Land Cruiser's Off-Road Capability

True to its roots, the 2024 Land Cruiser 1958 shines when the pavement ends. Its four-wheel-drive system is refreshingly straightforward, with manually selectable controls for the center differential lock, rear differential lock, and two-speed transfer case. Unlike some competitors that rely heavily on complex computer-controlled systems, the Land Cruiser’s setup is simple and reliable, provided the driver has the skills to use it effectively.

Ground clearance and approach/departure angles are more than adequate for tackling challenging trails. Paired with Toyota’s Crawl Control system and hill descent control, the Land Cruiser inspires confidence in tricky situations. Whether you’re navigating rocky paths, muddy tracks, or snow-covered trails, this SUV is more than capable of handling it all.

If you're still weighing options, consider exploring some great alternatives to the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser.

Verdict: The Perfect Balance of Utility and Comfort

The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 1958 trim strikes a compelling balance between rugged off-road capability and everyday usability. Its comfortable ride, solid build quality, and intuitive technology make it a joy to drive, whether you’re commuting in the city or exploring off the beaten path. While the engine noise under acceleration and limited cargo space are minor drawbacks, they’re far outweighed by the Land Cruiser’s strengths.

Compared to competitors like the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler, the Land Cruiser offers a more refined driving experience without sacrificing off-road performance. On the flip side, it’s far more capable than family-oriented SUVs like the Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot. For those seeking a versatile vehicle that can do it all, the Land Cruiser is a standout choice.

For buyers concerned about affordability, learn why some dealerships are offering the Toyota Land Cruiser under MSRP.

Two Questions for You:

1. What features matter most to you in a versatile off-road SUV?
2. Would the Land Cruiser’s mix of practicality, off-road capability, and hybrid efficiency fit your lifestyle?

Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.