Skip advert
Advertisement

Land Cruiser vs Range Rover

Toyota is taking the bold approach and moving its land cruiser upmarket as it aims to steal sales from the undisputed luxury 4x4 king, the Range Rover. But is it a step too far? We put the pair in at the deep end to find out.

LC v RR

IF you want an off-roader that offers status, heritage, luxury and refinement, surely there’s only one option? Nothing comes close to the Range Rover, right?

The firm has certainly built up an unrivalled reputation since the first version was launched back in 1970. It single-handedly created the premium SUV market and pioneered the concept of an off-roader that’s equally happy on tarmac.

But one firm can trace its history back even further, and has a reputation to rival the British marque’s. The first Toyota Land Cruiser appeared in 1954 and quickly established itself as one of the toughest, best built and most capable off-roaders around.

Although early models were designed primarily for heading into uncharted territory, successive generations of the Japanese 4x4 have reflected buyers’ needs and become more competent on-road, too.

And now the new eighth-generation Land Cruiser V8 is here. It’s built on a completely redesigned platform and powered by a new 4.5-litre twin-turbo diesel V8 mated to Toyota’s latest six-speed automatic.

Promising exemplary comfort and refinement, as well as improved safety and driver appeal, it aims to take on the might of its European premium rivals. It also comes with seven seats as standard, a long list of equipment and a reliability record which isn’t in doubt. But what about desirability? Has the Toyota got what it takes to sink the challenge of the mighty Brit?

Verdict

TOYOTA spent five years developing the new Land Cruiser V8, and it’s obvious how highly engineered and well built it is. It’s certainly a serious 4x4 rather than a soft-roader, but unfortunately it’s not talented enough in everyday conditions to rival the Range Rover.

The design is bland, and although it’s big, the Toyota rarely gets a second glance. It’s a similar story inside, where the dull cabin does little to inspire. Standard kit is generous though, with every gadget you could need.

Sadly it’s disappointing on tarmac, with an unsettled ride and lifeless steering. This is a real surprise given Toyota’s claims to have improved on-road dynamics and limited body roll. Similarly the new D-4D engine is strong, but not as refined as we expected.

When it comes to luxury travel, few cars can match the Range Rover. The sumptuous cabin is a work of art – even better is the fact that it’s comfortable, spacious and has a special feel. It is expensive though, especially in top-spec Vogue SE guise, but even if it’s beyond most people’s budgets, unlike the Toyota, you do feel it’s worth the price tag.
 

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,160Avg. savings £2,721 off RRP*Used from £8,699
Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £35,385Avg. savings £2,911 off RRP*Used from £14,900
Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo

RRP £15,255Avg. savings £1,848 off RRP*Used from £7,250
Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall Corsa

RRP £19,200Avg. savings £4,560 off RRP*Used from £14,993
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Car Deal of the Day: Sacre bleu! The Renault 5 keeps getting cheaper
Renault 5 - front full width

Car Deal of the Day: Sacre bleu! The Renault 5 keeps getting cheaper

The modern-day Super Cinq comes with a super price. It’s our Deal of the Day for 14 May
News
14 May 2025
Kia is returning to its 'Keeping It Affordable' roots
Opinion - Kia

Kia is returning to its 'Keeping It Affordable' roots

Mike Rutherford thinks new cars are simply too expensive, but some manufacturers are starting to do something about it
Opinion
19 May 2025
Best electric cars 2025: the top 10 best EVs you can buy
Best electric cars header

Best electric cars 2025: the top 10 best EVs you can buy

Thinking about making the switch to an electric vehicle? Here are the EVs that should be on your shortlist, and why…
Best cars & vans
14 May 2025