2003 Toyota Land Cruiser: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Available side airbags and a new automatic transmission headline '03 revisions for Toyota's oldest Japanese-built SUV. Land Cruiser is somewhat smaller but much costlier than Toyota's American-made Sequoia. The Lexus LX 470 is a luxury Land Cruiser with the same body, chassis, and V8 engine. Both versions add 5 hp for '03 and a 5-speed automatic transmission to replace a 4-speed. Returning as shared standards are all-wheel drive with low-range gearing, ABS, antiskid/traction control, 3-row seating for eight, and rear air conditioning. This year, Land Cruiser adds optional front torso side airbags and 1st- and 2nd-row head-protecting curtain side airbags. Rear DVD entertainment is also newly available. Optional separately is a navigation system that can also show DVD movies on its in-dash screen with the transmission in Park; a CD changer is included. Newly standard for Land Cruiser are power tilt/telescopic steering column, steering-wheel audio controls, rear audio controls, automatic door locks, and 17-inch wheels (replacing 16s), with 18-inchers a new option. The Cruiser also gets exterior detail changes, revised gauge cluster, and metal-look dashboard trim.

COMPETITION

Luxury SUVs vary in size and type, including former members of both the Full-size and Midsize SUV classes, along with a few all-new models. All offer higher standards of workmanship, comfort, refinement, and pricing than other SUVs.

Our Best Buys are Acura MDX and Toyota Land Cruiser. Both are extremely capable on-road and offer roomy interiors that feature quality workmanship and materials. MDX gets slightly better fuel economy and is more reasonably priced. Land Cruiser offers a V8 engine, rugged body-on-frame chassis, and true off-road ability.

Though rugged and trucky, the Recommended Mercedes-Benz M-Class is spacious, offers a variety of model and engine choices, and numerous safety features. If you don't venture too far off-road, take a look at the car-based Lexus RX 300. Recommended based on price, refinement, and luxury appointments.