As the August reveal of the 2021 Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series approaches, and following dozens of leaks of the final production model, more details on the flagship 4x4 off-roader continue to flow.
Sources with knowledge of the project have confirmed the Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series will be the first vehicle to use the manufacturer’s new-generation TNGA ladder-chassis scalable platform architecture, which will provide the building blocks for the new Toyota Tundra full-sized US pick-up truck, the next-gen Toyota Prado and eventually the all-new Toyota HiLux by 2025.
Prices are certain to rise given the new platform architecture will bring improvements across almost all measurable criteria.
Enhanced interior luxury and technology, connectivity systems (including fingerprint security) and better ride comfort and refinement via an advanced suspension system will all be part of the package, along with a fresh new look that was recently leaked.
These latest renders accurately show how the final design will look.
The off-road-ready ladder-chassis platform will also facilitate a host of new engines, including turbo-petrol and turbo-diesel V6s, hybrids and possibly even hydrogen powertrains further down the track.
However, Australians will be offered just one engine type when the vehicle launches here late this year: an all-new 3.3-litre turbo-diesel V6 worth 230kW.
It is expected to drive through a new 10-speed automatic transmission and will come with plenty of off-road kit.
Leaked interior images confirm high and low gear ratios, locking diffs and several 4x4 modes including a crawl mode.
Japanese media outlets have also reported that five model grades will be available in Japan, starting with the entry-level GX and mid-spec AX and VX variants. There will also be premium ZX and GR-S model grades overseas.
We could see a similar model range to current GX, GLX and VX variants locally, and Toyota has filed trademarks for the Sahara ZX name in Australia as well.
Toyota Australia is yet to officially confirm any details of the new LandCruiser, except to say it will match or exceed the current vehicle’s capabilities for off-roading and towing.
Here’s what to expect from the 2021 Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series:
Engines:
3.3-litre turbo-diesel V6 (230kW/690Nm)
3.5-litre turbo-petrol V6 (310kW/590Nm)
Dimensions:
4980mm length (-10mm)
1980mm width (no change)
1870mm height (no change)
2900mm wheelbase (+50mm)
Towing:
At least 3500kg
Off-road systems:
Low-range transfer case
Locking diffs
3D Multi-Terrain monitor
Multi-Terrain Select off-road drive modes (with crawl mode)
Hill descent control
Platform:
New ladder-chassis (TNGA)
Connectivity:
Apple CarPlay
Android Auto
Fingerprint engine start
Technology/luxury:
12.3-inch central touch-screen (9.0-inch for entry-level models)
7.0-inch instrument display
JBL premium sound system
Leather upholstery (top-spec models)
Sunroof
Alloy wheels
LED headlights
LED tail-lights
Safety:
Adaptive cruise control
Lane-keep assist
Lane-centring assist
Traffic sign recognition