By: Toyota In The News
In 1951 Toyota introduced the Land Cruiser, a vehicle designed with go-anywhere capabilities. The Land Cruiser quickly earned a reputation for its reliability and for its ruggedness, having been the first vehicle to be driven to Mt. Fuji’s sixth hill station, a climb rising 2,500 meters. Since its introduction, it has conquered the Arctic (and Antarctic) wastes, traversed deserts, ploughed its way through tropical rain forests and generally taken the worst the world can throw at it in its stride. The Land Cruiser has also became a favorite among police fleets and militaries around the world and
After sixty years on the market, the Land Cruiser has evolved substantially. While it remains one of the toughest machines on four wheels, it has become increasingly sophisticated, mating strong off-road performance with unparalleled levels of luxury.
To celebrate this major milestone, Toyota will introduce two 60th anniversary models of the 2011 Land Cruiser. Unfortunately, both models are built for the UK only. But Land Cruiser fans can rest assured that the model available here in U.S. lives up to its safari-conquering spirit.
Powering this luxurious brute is a 5.7-liter DOHC V8 engine which produces 381 horsepower 401 lb-ft of torque. Ninety percent of peak torque is available at just 2,200 rpm, helping make the Land Cruiser an outstanding tow vehicle. This unit is also equipped with Toyota’s Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) system, which optimizes power, fuel efficiency and emissions.
The 2011 Land Cruiser is features a range of systems designed to maximize ruggedness and durability in extreme driving conditions. This includes Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) which enhances both on-road handling response and off-highway capability. Unlike more car-like crossovers, the Land Cruiser is equipped with a lightweight, compact transfer case which provides full-time four-wheel drive with a low-range for traversing challenging driving surfaces, such as steep inclines. Traction control (TRAC), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Crawl Control, and Downhill Assist Control (DAC), and make helps make traversing difficult terrain easier, and safer.
Inside, the latest generation Land Cruiser comes luxuriously equipped, with standard features that include rear privacy glass, a JBL premium audio system with in-dash six-disc CD changer and 14 speakers; Smart Key keyless entry with push-button start that allows the driver to unlock or start the vehicle by carrying the key; anti-theft security system; engine immobilizer; cruise control; power moonroof; auto-dimming rearview and side mirrors; HomeLink®; steering wheel-mounted audio; heated, power front seats with driver’s memory; and power tilt and telescopic steering column with memory. Other features include Toyota’s advanced Safety Connect telematics system, which dispatches emergency responders in the event of a collision and provides a range of other useful features.
The Toyota Land Cruiser continues to be a unique package backed by an iconic history. The latest model retains the characteristics that have made it a legend, but it also boasts the comfort and technology that will ensure its everlasting popularity.
