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2021 Toyota Land Cruiser Pros vs Cons

Reviewed & fact checked by
James Murdoch

Are You Considering a 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser? Here Are Some Reasons For and Against

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser is an impressive vehicle that can truly do it all. It offers drivers both great capability, ideal for rugged expeditions off the beaten path, along with a sophisticated and spacious cabin perfect for regular commutes to work. Plus, its advanced tech features make every drive effortless no matter where you’re headed. There are two available trims - the versatile base model or upgrade your experience with the more premium Heritage Edition which has several exterior and interior upgrades included.

What's New for 2021?

The 2021 Land Cruiser not only retains its lauded combination of technology and safety packages, it also offers a new Heritage Edition. Now available with an additional third row of seating, this expanded capability really broadens the vehicle's appeal. To complete the package, there are two brand-new exterior paint choices for those looking to make their heritage trim truly unique: Classic Silver and Magnetic Gray.


Ten Reasons You May Like the 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser – The Pros

1. A Powerful SUV

The Toyota Land Cruiser is no run-of-the mill SUV! A V8 engine dishes out an impressive 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque for a dynamically enjoyable ride. Plus, the 8-gear transmission easily transitions from highways to tight city corners with ease - ensuring all the power you need for any journey at your disposal.

2. Ready to Leave the Pavement Behind

Conquer even the roughest of terrain in a 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser, equipped with an advanced 4x4 system featuring the Torsen limited slip center differential that locks to maximize traction when road conditions become tricky. Its full-time four-wheel drive delivers improved control and performance whatever your journey throws at you.

3. Towing Isn't a Problem

Some people interested in full-size SUVs are planning on using their vehicles to tow cargo. The Land Cruiser can certainly handle this responsibility, as it comes standard with a towing hitch receiver, wiring harness, and connectors. Its powerful engine gives it a towing capacity of 8,100. This is close to or greater than the towing capacity of many trucks and most SUVs. Motorbikes, ATVs, work equipment, and more can be hauled around town or taken on longer trips.

4. Load Up the Cabin

As mentioned, the Toyota Land Cruiser can be configured with three rows of seats. Being able to drive around more than five people is really important for a large segment of consumers, so having eight seats helps the Land Cruiser stand out.

Behind all of those seats is a cargo area with a volume of 16.1 cubic feet. Lowering the third row expands cargo volume to over 41 cubic feet, and there's nearly 83 cubic feet of space when all of the rear seats are folded down. Providing a simple way to access the back of the vehicle is a power-operated liftgate. If people have larger items, like skis or bikes, they can take advantage of the Toyota's roof rails.

5. An Advanced Infotainment System

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser has a feature-filled infotainment system, though lacking in the modern interface and smartphone integration found on competitors' offerings. It boasts an impressive range of amenities including a 9-inch touchscreen display for audio, navigation and vehicle settings control; built-in real time traffic updates capable navigations system; 14 speaker JBL Synthesis Audio System to deliver crisp sound quality while streaming your favorite music or podcasts wirelessly via Bluetooth connectivity.

USB ports alongside auxiliary inputs make it easy to connect devices right into the car allowing them to charge as you drive plus SiriusXM satellite radio with complimentary trial subscription providing access premium entertainment channels so that any journey is never dull! Voice command functionality also offers hands free convenience when needed most.

6. Safety Is a Priority

The Toyota Land Cruiser is renowned for its commitment to protecting passengers. This SUV not only detects and alerts drivers of potential hazards, but also takes preventive measures such as automated braking when necessary. By integrating a comprehensive suite of safety systems into the vehicle design, Toyota has once again proven their dedication to creating safe transportation solutions that prioritize occupant security above all else.

7. LEDs in So Many Places

The Daytime Running Lights on the Land Cruiser use LED technology, as do the front fog lights and projector-beam headlights. LEDs are also at the rear of the vehicle in the stop lights and taillights. In general, LEDs shine bright and add to the futuristic feel of the SUV, so they're seen as desirable elements on vehicles. On the inside of the Toyota, LEDs are used in the accent lighting and map lights for the rear passengers.

8. Premium Materials

Both trims of the Land Cruiser can give passengers a treat, thanks to perforated leather seats. Customers can choose from leather that is a sleek, modern black or a more earthy Terra color. In the Heritage Edition, the seats are more sophisticated with a bronze stitching, and they're complemented by a black headliner. In both trims, the steering wheel is also wrapped in leather, and it includes a heating element to help combat those cold winter mornings. Front seats are heated in addition to being ventilated.

9. Get a Bird's Eye View

With the Land Cruiser's bird's eye view camera, driving and parking become an effortless task. Get a full 360-degree perspective of everything around your SUV so you can tackle tight spots like parallel parking with confidence! Make maneuvering easier than ever before - try this feature today for unparalleled control over your vehicle.

10. Rear-Seat Entertainment

If anyone is planning on taking the Land Cruiser on long road trips with a full cabin, it may be a good idea to opt for the available rear-seat entertainment package. It comes with two display screens that each measure 11.6 inches. The video feed can come through RCA jacks, HDMI inputs, or a DVD using the included DVD player. A remote and wireless headphones are also included.


Reasons You May Not Like the 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser – The Cons

1. Limited cargo space

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser offers robust off-road capabilities, as well as comfortable seating for up to 8 passengers; however, these features come at a cost. Cargo area design compromises storage capacity by limiting the amount of space available without third row seats folded down and due its split-folding tailgate with high load floor which can make loading and unloading difficult. This might not be an ideal choice if maximum cargo room is top priority.

2. Outdated Interior

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser's interior fails to impress with an outdated infotainment system, design elements and limited tech features. Its lack of Apple CarPlay & Android Auto compatibility contributes to its dated feel; complemented by cabin materials and a basic design that cannot compete with rivals. Failing in offering cutting edge options like digital instrument clusters or semi-autonomous driving systems - it also lacks advanced safety features & customization found elsewhere on the market. Ultimately this reliable off roader is likely to be overlooked due its failure when compared against modern luxury competitors boasting superior amenities.

3. Size and maneuverability

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser is an impressive full-size SUV that offers off-road performance;however its dimensions and weight can pose navigation challenges in urban settings. Compared to lighter SUVs, the Land Cruiser's added heft adversely affects agility and responsiveness; as well as creating a larger turning radius which complicates tight turns or U-turns. Additionally, this bulky design might create significant blind spots when parking or switching lanes - something buyers should take into account before making their purchase decision for optimal maneuverability on city streets.

How it Stacks Up to the Competition:

2021 Toyota Land Cruiser vs 2021 Lexus LX

Those looking to conquer rugged terrain but also revel in luxurious touches have two excellent options: the 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus LX. The platforms, powertrains, and off-road capabilities of both SUVs are comparable; however, it is the distinguished styling of the Lexus that sets it apart from its sibling. An Adaptive Variable Suspension system provides an incomparable ride experience with superior sound insulation for added comfort as well as additional convenience features within a premium interior space - making this upper echelon automobile worth every penny.

Final Thoughts

Designed with the most enthusiastic of adventurers in mind, the Toyota Land Cruiser promises luxury and a powerful performance. With an indulgent price tag to match its capabilities - $85,000+ – this full-size SUV is guaranteed to make any journey one that stands out from all others. For those who demand nothing but excellence on their expeditions, turn no further than the formidable Land Cruiser for your next escapade.

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Why buy a 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser? w/ pros vs cons