New Toyota Land Cruiser 250 Series: Worth the Controversy?

The Land Cruiser Series Controversy

• 📌 The current controversy around the new Toyota Land Cruiser stems from its series designation; it's a 250 series, not the expected 300 series.
• 💡 Historically, Land Cruiser generations are identified by series numbers (e.g., FJ40, 80, 200), and the US market expected a 300 series.
• ⚠️ While a 300 series exists globally and is sold as the Lexus LX in the US, the 250 series (also known as the Prao in some markets) is being marketed as a full Land Cruiser.

Off-Roading Prowess and Agility

• ⛰️ The speaker found the previous 200 series Land Cruiser cumbersome for off-roading due to its size and weight.
• ⚖️ Despite similar exterior dimensions, the 250 series is significantly lighter (700-800 lbs), which is crucial for off-road performance.
• 🚀 The reduced weight makes the 250 series feel more agile and less prone to fighting physics on steep inclines and declines.

Interior Design and Driving Position

• 🚗 The seating position in the 250 series is described as being on top of the vehicle, similar to a Land Rover Discovery, offering better visibility for off-roading.
• 🕹️ The steering is noted for its slow ratio, allowing for precise inputs off-road, reminiscent of older Jeep vehicles.
• 🌟 The combination of this driving position, precise steering, and Toyota's reputation for longevity makes the 250 series appealing.

Value Proposition vs. Lexus GX

• 💰 The Lexus GX offers similar capabilities with more luxury and a twin-turbo V6, but starts at around $72,000 for the Overtrail trim, reaching up to $84,000.
• ✅ The base model Land Cruiser 250 starts around $61,000-$62,000 and includes essential off-road features like a four-low system, locking center differential, and integrated brake controller.
• 🛠️ With an upgrade to off-road tires, the Land Cruiser 250 can be trail-ready for around $63,000, offering a significant cost saving compared to the GX.

Powertrain and Performance

• ⚡ The 250 series features a hybrid powertrain with a high-voltage battery that impacts trunk space but provides an estimated 22-23 MPG and 465 lb-ft of torque.
• 💨 The four-cylinder turbo engine delivers impressive low-end torque (peak at 1,700 RPM), providing good grunt for off-road use, contrary to concerns about turbo lag.
• 🔊 However, the engine's exhaust note is criticized for being unrefined, and the interior has some budget-friendly plastics and a lack of color contrast.

Off-Road Capability and Highlights

• ⚙️ Despite a published 8.66 inches of ground clearance, the Land Cruiser 250's off-road capability is enhanced by its low-range gearing, center and rear lockers, crawl control, and sway bar disconnect.
• 🛡️ The vehicle is engineered with underbody protection, allowing it to handle rock crawling with confidence.
• 👍 Key highlights include the commanding seating position, excellent visibility, standard locking differentials, and factory-installed rock rails, making it a capable and fun off-road vehicle for its intended purpose.