2000 Toyota Land Cruiser: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Added standard equipment, including an antiskid system, highlighted Toyota's upscale SUV for 2000. Land Cruiser shares its design and powertrain with the luxury Lexus LX 470, but for 2001, takes second place in terms of size behind the Sequoia among Toyota SUVs. Land Cruiser continues with V8 power, automatic transmission, and a permanent 4-wheel-drive system with a 2-speed transfer case providing separate low-range gears for off-roading. A manual locking center differential is standard. Maximum trailering weight is 6500 pounds.
Added for 2000 was Toyota's new Active TRAC traction control with integrated vehicle skid control. This uses data from the 4-wheel antilock brake sensors and other sources to direct power to the wheels with the best traction. In addition, power sunroof and leather upholstery move from optional to standard status. Land Cruiser again comes with seating for five and offers an extra-cost 3-person third-row bench seat that now includes rear air conditioning, previously a stand-alone option. The rear A/C is independent of the regular system and features automatic temperature control.

COMPETITION

Though this segment has cooled somewhat with the rise in fuel prices, it's still one of the hottest. Our Best Buy is the Ford Expedition. We love the size, comfort, and power of this big SUV. Hot on its heels are the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon. We were very impressed with these vehicles initially, and when we have more time to fully evaluate them we expect them to be Best Buys as well.
For a few more bucks you can get the highly recommended Toyota Land Cruiser. Its high price is the only thing holding back this refined and drivable SUV.