2009 Toyota Land Cruiser: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Toyota Land Cruiser sees no major changes following its 2008 redesign. This premium large SUV seats eight passengers and is powered by a 381-hp 5.7-liter V8 that mates to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity is 6500 lb. Land Cruiser has all-wheel drive with low-range gearing and a locking center differential. Other 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. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, knee airbags for the driver and front passenger, front and 2nd-row side airbags, and curtain side airbags for all three seating rows. Optional equipment includes 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 Buys are the Audi Q7 and Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. Our Recommended pick is the Cadillac Escalade.

The Audi Q7 and Mercedes-Benz GL-Class both add diesel engines for 2009, while the Cadillac Escalade adds a gas/electric hybrid model.