Following months of speculation, concept renderings and spy-shots, the eagerly awaited Land Cruiser 300 is set for an August debut in South Africa
As announced in a media statement released by Toyota today (Friday), the first production models are ready to be shipped to eager buyers.
On the design front, the ‘300’ features a dramatically different profile to Its ‘200’ predecessor. While the design is unmistakably angular in execution, it creates a cohesive form that offers far greater dynamic presence with a sense of agility. In profile, the newcomer bears a passing resemblance to the much-loved 80-series of the ’90’s – keeping the classic two-box look.
The front façade features a large and prominent radiator grille with sculpted rectangular headlamps on each side, that blend seamlessly into the grille. U-shaped radiator openings underpin a strong design while the bonnet features the signature Land Cruiser ‘channel’ down the centre. The rear features large trapezoidal taillamps with stylised light guides which are complemented by large Land Cruiser lettering and the Toyota Insignia.
The Land Cruiser 300 serves as the flagship to the Toyota SUV-range, and carries an enviable reputation as the ‘Master of Africa’. The ‘300’ model is a ‘ground-up design, featuring an all-new TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform designated as TNGA-F. The F indicates the first ladder-frame execution of TNGA – a fact that should find favour with off-road enthusiasts.
An all-new engine line-up propels the newcomer; buyers have the choice of a 3.5-litre V6 Twin Turbo petrol engine or 3.3-litre V6 Turbodiesel. Both powerplants focus on delivering increased efficiency, improved torque output and elevated levels of refinement versus the outgoing V8-variants.
The petrol V6 offers 305 kW @ 5200 rpm with a stout 650 Nm available from 2000 rpm, while the new diesel delivers 225 kW @ 4000 rpm with a ‘stump-pulling 700 Nm available between 1600 and 2600 rpm. The top speed is pegged at 210 km/h for both variants. The new engines are mated to a new slick-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission with low-range functionality.
Fuel consumption figures are listed as 12.1 l/100 km for Petrol and 8.9 l/100 km for diesel – with CO2 emissions checking in at 291 and 238 respectively.
The Land Cruiser 300 also introduces a new grade line-up, namely GX-R, ZX and GR-S. GX-R remains the utility-focussed model and serves as the entry point to the range, while the ZX replaces the VX-R as the luxury model.
For the first time on Land Cruiser, a GR Sport (aka GR-S) grade will be offered which serves as the off-road performance model. As such the GR-S features bespoke exterior styling and trim, rugged 18″ alloy wheels, while adopting an off-road-biased specification list – without skimping on any comfort or convenience. This model joins the other Gazoo Racing (GR) products and expands the GR brand into Land Cruiser territory for the first time.
The ZX model in turn takes on a more ‘image-focused persona, with unique 20″ alloy wheels, chrome detailing and luxury-oriented interior trim. The Land Cruiser 300 range thus offers three distinct character profiles to choose from – Utility, Luxury and Sporty.
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