2018 Toyota Land Cruiser SUV Review & Ratings

Performance

The 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser only has one engine option. It packs a 5.7 liter DOHC V8 with VVT-I producing 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. It is connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission and the power is delivered through a four-wheel-drive system. On the pavement, the engine runs smoothly. There is no jerky reaction from the gas pedal and the engine just hums quietly. The engine also packs more than enough torque that hauls the SUV's mass with ease. This means that it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in under 7.5 seconds, which is impressive for size and weight. The engine's character translated well during the off-road test, since the power is delivered in a linear fashion and no abruptness was felt while going over bigger rocks on rough terrain. Body roll is almost nonexistent given how well the hydraulic actuation on the suspension absorbed the impact. The Land Cruiser felt as if it handled like a smaller vehicle in navigating unpredictable off-road situations. The brakes are very capable, but stepping deeper is almost necessary to feel its effect. This has been tuned by Toyota to be more forgiving during off-road use and may require some anticipation by the driver when driving on paved roads.

Technology

The 2018 model comes standard with JBL speakers, Toyota's Entune infotainment system with a 9-inch touch screen, GPS navigation, satellite radio, USB port, Bluetooth, Qi wireless charging, keyless entry, and a push-to-start button. It also features Siri Eyes Free, but does not include Apple CarPlay nor Android Auto. Hence, connecting your smartphone to use its apps is prohibited. The only option available is the rear-seat entertainment system that can play DVD's and receive HDMI input, and comes with two 11.6-inch displays (non-touchscreen), two wireless headphones, and a remote. There are several driver aids that can enhance the driving experience. The Turn Assist reduces the turning circle of the SUV to help in tight corners, which was especially useful during off-road where the path is unpredictable. The Hill Descent Control was useful for tackling sloped roads, and it helped reduce the load on the transmission where one gear can be overused. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System is powered by hydraulics that adjusts the height of the suspension in each wheel independently in real time. This allows for a more precise yet also more comfortable ride in uneven road surfaces.

Safety

Toyota Safety Sense comes standard with the 2018 model and it features Lane Departure Alert, Automatic High Beams, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and Pre-collision System with Pedestrian Alert. Lane Departure Alert activates when the speed is 32 mph or higher. When the markings on the road are clear, it can detect when the vehicle has veered off and will alert the driver to steer the vehicle back to the center of the lane. Automatic High Beams allow automatic changes from low to high beam headlights depending on the intensity of the headlights from approaching vehicles as well as the taillights of vehicles in front. This only activates on speeds 25 mph or higher and can detect possible obstacles earlier. Dynamic Radar Cruise Control will maintain a specific distance between vehicles depending on their speed. It alerts the driver when the vehicle in front slows down and will apply the brakes when needed. Pre-collision System with Pedestrian Alert detects a pedestrian or vehicle in front that may result in collision, and will give out sound and visual alerts to apply the brakes. Should the driver not brake fast enough, the system will automatically apply the brakes to avoid the collision or lessen the impact. Other safety features include a multi-view camera, front and rear parking sensors, rain-activated windshield wipers and automatic emergency braking.

Appearance

The 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser measures 195 inches long, 74 inches high, and 78 inches wide, with a 112.2 inch wheelbase. The Land Cruiser has been a mainstay in the SUV department and its size is prototypical in its class. The 2018 model has not received a facelift yet since 2016 and is visually identical to last year's model. It retains the angular and stocky aesthetic, both at the front and rear quarters of the vehicle. The body also sits high above the pavement, which may be emphasized by the smaller rims in this model.

Comfort

The 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser has an eight-passenger seating capacity. It comes standard with heated and ventilated seats in leather trim, which keep the occupants comfortable even during off-road trips. The leather is soft to the touch, adding to the luxurious feel. The front row of seats are very relaxing and accommodating. There is ample adjustment depending on your physical stature and driving preferences. The second row of seats offer a decent amount of leg room. It's not tight but not too spacious either. The middle seat can be brought down to serve as an arm rest and it also holds the remote and extra cup holders. The room for the feet under the front seats can be tight and moving your feet further is just impossible. The third row of seats feel more cramped and the knees are raised due to the floor above the rear axle being higher. Taller people or those with bigger legs will definitely encounter discomfort. In addition, they can be folded down and to the side to increase the cargo room at the rear. Riding the Land Cruiser felt very stable inside the cabin. Bumps and shakes cannot be avoided in unpredictable terrains, but those instances were rare. Engine noise is kept to a minimum and the wind noise in highway driving was imperceptible.

Cargo

The 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser has 81.7 cu. ft. behind the front row seats, 43 cu. ft. behind the second row seats, and 16.1 cu. ft. behind the third row seats.