2008 Toyota Land Cruiser: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser is redesigned with freshened styling and more power in a similar-size package that retains eight-passenger seating. The lone model has a 381-hp 5.7-liter V8 and 6-speed automatic transmission; they replace a 265-hp V8/5-speed automatic combination. Maximum towing capacity is 8500 lb, an increase of 2000 over the previous-generation Land Cruiser. All-wheel drive with low-range gearing and locking center differential return, but other newly standard features for severe off-road use include Toyota's Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System, which can vary roll stiffness and allow greater wheel articulation; Hill-start Assist Control, to keep the vehicle from rolling backward on an incline; and CRAWL Control, which allows the driver to select one of three very slow preset speeds that the vehicle will automatically maintain on declines. No longer offered is a height-adjustable suspension. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, front side airbags, and 2nd-row side airbags. Also included are driver and passenger front knee airbags. Optional are a navigation system, backup camera, remote engine start, DVD entertainment, and rear seat heaters. Land Cruiser lends its basic design to the LX 570 from Toyota's Lexus division.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Typically based on mainstream Large SUVs, Premium Large SUVs are super-sized luxury liners. All are powerful, pricey, and extremely thirsty at the pump.

Our Best Buy is the Cadillac Escalade. Our Recommended picks are the Audi Q7 and Mercedes-Benz GL-Class.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Lexus LX 570 and Toyota Land Cruiser.