Toyota is cashing in on demand for its LandCruiser four-wheel-drive with significantly higher prices for the latest model.
Prices are up by about 10 per cent across the board, starting with an entry-level GX model that sets customers back an extra $9000, or $89,990 plus on-road costs,
Drivers keen on the range-topping LandCruiser will have to find an extra $14,500 or so to pay $138,790 plus on-road costs for the luxurious Sahara ZX.
That will translate to more than $150,000 drive-away, which could run higher still if rabid appetites for the last of the superseded 200 Series LandCruiser are any indication.
The Sahara ZX promises to be the most luxurious LandCruiser yet, with premium elements such as a 12.3-inch touchscreen linked to a 14-speaker JBL stereo, a head-up display, heated and cooled front and rear leather seats, a hands-free power tailgate and more.
The most interesting model in the range is a new LandCruiser GR Sport with tough looks and rally-inspired hardware. The machine gets black exterior elements, including a retro grille with Toyota lettering in place of the brand’s oval-shaped logo, as well as red and black highlights throughout the cabin.
Mechanical changes for the GR Sport include the latest version of Toyota’s Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System that can electronically lock and release its anti-roll bars, along with locking front and rear diffs, multi-mode electronic suspension, off-road driving modes and carbon-look elements.
The GR Sport sits just below the top-of-the-range Sahara ZX, priced from $137,790 plus on-roads.
As expected, the new LandCruiser range ditches V8 power for a twin-turbo diesel V6 that sends 227kW/700Nm to all four wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The big unit is more powerful and efficient than before, and can still tow up to 3.5 tonnes.
The most significant compromise compared to the outgoing model is a change from eight to seven seats in the cabin, which could be a problem for big families.
Toyota Australia vice president of sales, marketing and franchise operations, Sean Hanley, said two new models at the top of the range would broaden the LandCruiser’s appeal.
“Our new GR Sport is the absolute expression of the LandCruiser DNA – the ultimate 4WD that is specially equipped for owners who truly love driving on rough trails and in off-road rallies,” he said.
“The graceful styling of the Sahara ZX adds an even more prestigious and advanced high-quality image for customers who use their LandCruiser primarily for urban driving and holiday getaways with their families.”
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