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Toyota Land Cruiser
SUV · Gas · 13 versions · owner report
Ranked #2 of 11 full-size SUVs on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
Combined, EPA 2027
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is highly positive for the 200 Series (LC200/LX570) and 70 Series, centered on legendary long-term reliability, overbuilt solidity, and exceptional off-road capability.
6 problems reported (1 very frequent, 1 recurrent, 4 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentConcerns about new powertrain reliability
Widespread concern about the long-term reliability of Toyota's new turbocharged engines (e.g., in Tundra, 4Runner, Land Cruiser) and the complexity of hybrid systems compared to older, naturally aspirated engines.
- RecurrentUnrefined engine feel (250 Series 2.4L turbo)
Engine sounds and feels like it is working hard, lacks smoothness, driving experience is very electronically assisted.
- IsolatedFrame rust on older models (e.g., 2006)
Can be severe, requiring costly rail replacement and specialized repair shops.
+ 3 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedReal-world fuel economy discrepancy (250 Series)
Achieving approximately 19 MPG combined versus an EPA estimate of 23/25 MPG.
- IsolatedManufacturer defect (250 Series)
One report of an unidentified defect that could not be diagnosed or fixed by the dealer, leading to a vehicle switch.
- IsolatedBrake squeal issues (250 Series/4Runner)
Mentioned as a known problem.
The version owners recommend
For the 200 Series, the model with the 5.7L V8 powertrain is overwhelmingly endorsed for its proven, bulletproof reliability. For the new 250 Series, owner feedback is insufficient to declare a consensus "best" trim, though discussions indicate the model with the premium package offers features like real leather and a three-zone climate control that are valued over the base Lexus GX Overtrail trim.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Lexus GX (460, 550), Lexus LX (570, 600), Toyota 4Runner, Toyota Sequoia and Ford Bronco.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is highly positive for the 200 Series (LC200/LX570) and 70 Series, centered on legendary long-term reliability, overbuilt solidity, and exceptional off-road capability. The 200 Series is described as feeling "like new" even at high mileage, with a dedicated manufacturing plant contributing to unmatched fit and finish. The 70 Series is viewed as an agricultural, purpose-built workhorse. Sentiment for the new 250 Series (2024+) is mixed and divisive. Positive feedback highlights its modern hybrid powertrain, peppy acceleration, good fuel economy for the class, and capable off-road platform. Significant criticism focuses on the 2.4L turbo engine's unrefined feel, real-world fuel economy falling short of EPA estimates, and a perception that it is a "Prado" rather than a "true" Land Cruiser, leading to community skepticism. Concerns about the reliability of new Toyota turbo engines and hybrid systems are recurrent, though some owners express confidence based on Toyota's hybrid history.
Positioning vs competitors
The 200 Series/LX570 is positioned as the apex of reliability and long-term solidity, superior to German luxury SUVs (BMW, Mercedes) in build quality and cost of ownership, though sometimes behind in interior material luxury. It is considered more reliable and better-built than the Nissan Patrol/Armada, though the Patrol may offer better value due to lower resale. The 250 Series is directly compared to the Lexus GX 550; the GX is seen as more performance-oriented and luxurious, while the 250 is viewed as more utilitarian and potentially more reliable due to a simpler suspension system (lack of e-KDSS). Compared to the 4Runner, the 250 Series is seen as a more modern, capable, and refined evolution but comes at a higher price point. Against the Ford Bronco and Land Rover Defender, the Land Cruiser's primary advantage is perceived reliability and lower long-term ownership costs.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient owner data available to provide specific recommended configurations. Isolated mentions suggest considering full-time 4WD systems, physical skid plates, and avoiding the hybrid system if seeking maximum long-term simplicity, though this contradicts positive hybrid feedback from other owners.
General recommendations
Recommended for buyers whose top priority is long-term reliability, durability, and off-road capability over luxury refinement or fuel economy. The 200 Series/LX570 is strongly recommended for those seeking a "25-year service life" vehicle and who are willing to accept high fuel costs (approx. 15 MPG). The 250 Series may suit buyers wanting modern efficiency and technology but who should test-drive extensively to evaluate the turbo-hybrid powertrain feel and verify real-world fuel economy. Not recommended for those who do not plan to off-road, as unibody crossovers will offer better on-road comfort, fuel economy, and value. For any purchase, a thorough pre-purchase inspection for rust (especially on older models) is critical. Be aware of significant community debate regarding the 250 Series' positioning and heritage.
Remarks
Owner discussions cover multiple distinct generations: the 70 Series (workhorse), the 200 Series/LX570 (flagship luxury off-roader), and the new 250 Series (global, modern platform). The intense debate around the 250 Series centers on its platform sharing with the Lexus GX and Toyota Prado, challenging traditional perceptions of the Land Cruiser nameplate in some markets like the US. The 200 Series and its Lexus LX twin are consistently described as among the most reliable and solidly built vehicles ever made, with a dedicated cult following. Analysis is based on a limited set of community discussions, with more data needed, particularly for the 250 Series, to solidify trends on common mechanical issues and ownership costs.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2002. Years to avoid: 2008, 2003, 2002, 2000Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Toyota Land Cruiser years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 5 | 0 | service brakes |
| 2025 | 32 | 0 | service brakes |
| 2024 | 39 | 4 | service brakes |
| 2021 | 1 | 0 | unknown or other |
| 2018 | 4 | 2 | air bags |
| 2017 | 4 | 1 | air bags |
| 2016 | 4 | 3 | seats |
| 2015 | 2 | 4 | air bags |
| 2014 | 2 | 4 | power train |
| 2013 | 6 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2011 | 4 | 5 | tires |
| 2010 | 3 | 6 | engine |
| 2009 | 6 | 7 | vehicle speed control |
| 2008 | 8 | 5 | air bags |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices51 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2024 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 24V548000
Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain Toyota 2023 GR Supra, 2024 4 Runner, Corolla, Grand Highlander, Grand Highlander Hybrid, Land Cruiser Hybrid, Tacoma, Tacoma Hybrid, 2023-2024 BZ4X, Corolla Cross Hybrid, GR Corolla, GR86, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Prius, Prius Prime, Sequoia Hybrid, Tundra, Tundra Hybrid, Venza Hybrid, 2023-2025 Crown, and 2025 Camry Hybrid vehicles equipped with GST accessories. The load carrying capacity modification label may display inaccurate added weight values. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
2024 · back over prevention:display functioncampaign 25V744000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Toyota, Lexus, and Subaru Solterra vehicles equipped with a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. A software error may cause the rearview camera to freeze or display a blank screen when the vehicle is in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2024 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 26V179000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Toyota Tundra, Tacoma Hybrid, Tacoma, RAV4 Hybrid, Land Cruiser Hybrid, Lexus GX550, 2024-2026 Tundra Hybrid, 2025 Sequoia Hybrid, Crown Signia, Grand Highlander, Lexus TX500 Hybrid, Lexus NX350 Hybrid, 2025-2026 Grand Highlander Hybrid, and Lexus TX350 vehicles. The load carrying capacity modification label may display inaccurate added weight values. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
2024 · electrical system: instrument cluster/panelcampaign 26V341000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2025 Lexus UX Hybrid, 2024 Lexus GX, Toyota Mirai, and 2024-2025 Toyota Land Cruiser Hybrid vehicles. The instrument panel cluster combination meter may fail to display certain warnings or indicators. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 101, "Control and Displays" and in addition, for the subject Mirai vehicles, FMVSS 305, "Electric-powered vehicles: Electrolyte Spillage and Electrical Shock Protection."
2018 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 20V682000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018-2019 4Runner, 2019-2020 Avalon, 2019 Corolla Hatchback, 2017-2019 Highlander, 2018-2020 Camry, 2020 Corolla, 2018-2019 Land Cruiser, 2017-2020 Tacoma, 2019-2020 RAV4, 2019-2020 Sequoia, 2017-2020 Sienna, 2019-2020 Tundra, 2018-2020 Lexus ES350, 2017 Lexus GS200t, 2017-2019 Lexus GS350, 2019 Lexus GS300, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500h, 2019-2020 Lexus LS500, 2018-2019 Lexus GX460, 2017 Lexus IS200t, 2019 Lexus IS300, 2019 Lexus IS350, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500, 2018 Lexus LS500, 2019 Lexus LS500h, 2018-2019 Lexus LX570, 2017 Lexus RC200t, 2019 Lexus RC300, RC350, 2017 and 2019-2020 Lexus RX350, 2018-2020 RX350L, 2019 Lexus UX200, 2018-2019 Lexus NX300 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
2018 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 18V887000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2008-2019 Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus LX 570 vehicles. Over time, the seat belt tension sensor wire harness may break and deactivate the front passenger air bag, knee air bag, and passenger seat-mounted side airbag.
2017 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 18V887000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2008-2019 Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus LX 570 vehicles. Over time, the seat belt tension sensor wire harness may break and deactivate the front passenger air bag, knee air bag, and passenger seat-mounted side airbag.
2016 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 18V887000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2008-2019 Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus LX 570 vehicles. Over time, the seat belt tension sensor wire harness may break and deactivate the front passenger air bag, knee air bag, and passenger seat-mounted side airbag.
2016 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 17V548000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2008-2016 Toyota Land Cruiser, 2006 Lexus LX470, and 2008-2013 Lexus LX570 vehicles. These vehicles may be equipped with an incorrect driver or front passenger air bag. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
2016 · tirescampaign 16V236000
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2016 Toyota Yaris, Rav4, Land Cruiser and 4Runner vehicles, and Scion FR-S, iM, and TC vehicles manufactured January 28, 2016, to March 14, 2016. The Load Carrying Capacity Modification Label may not reflect the correct added weight of the installed accessories. As a result, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims for Passenger Cars."
2015 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 18V887000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2008-2019 Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus LX 570 vehicles. Over time, the seat belt tension sensor wire harness may break and deactivate the front passenger air bag, knee air bag, and passenger seat-mounted side airbag.
2015 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 17V548000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2008-2016 Toyota Land Cruiser, 2006 Lexus LX470, and 2008-2013 Lexus LX570 vehicles. These vehicles may be equipped with an incorrect driver or front passenger air bag. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
2015 · equipmentcampaign 14V828000
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Toyota 4Runner, Tacoma, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, RAV4, Scion FRS, and XB vehicles. The affected vehicles may have accessories installed by SET, such as running boards or other items, that were incorrectly installed. The accessory attaching fasteners were not tightened with the proper torque, possibly causing the accessory to detach from the vehicle.
2015 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 20V012000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) recalled certain 2018-2019 4Runner, Highlander, Camry, Land Cruiser, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma and Tundra, and Lexus RC 300, RC 350, GS 350, GX 460, IS 300, LC 500, LS 500, LX 570, RX 350L, and 2019 Toyota Avalon and Corolla, and certain Lexus NX 300, and ES 350 vehicles on January 13, 2020. On March 4, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include certain 2014-2015 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser, 2018 Avalon, Corolla, 2014 FJ Cruiser, 2017 Sienna and Lexus 2018 ES 350, 2018-2019 GS 300, 2013-2014 GS350, 2014-2015 GX 460, IS 350 and LX 570, 2014 IS F, 2018-2019 IS 350, LC 500H and LS 500H, 2013-2015 LS 460, 2015 NX 200T and RC350, 2017 RC 200T and RX 350. Toyota also removed the 2018-2019 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser and 2018-2019 Lexus GX 460 and LX 570 and 2019 NX300 from inclusion in this recall. On March 19, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include 2015 Lexus GS350 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
2014 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 18V887000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2008-2019 Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus LX 570 vehicles. Over time, the seat belt tension sensor wire harness may break and deactivate the front passenger air bag, knee air bag, and passenger seat-mounted side airbag.
36 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: J250
2.4 i-FORCE MAX Full Hybrid
Hybrid · 326 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2024–2026