2020 Toyota Land Cruiser Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

There are a lot of people who love the Toyota Landcruiser, especially folks who enjoy an outdoor lifestyle. This rugged SUV comes ready for the rural backcountry. Great on-road comfort makes the Landcruiser an even better choice for adventurous families. However, does the Land Cruiser’s many upsides outweigh its weaknesses?

What’s New for 2020?

The 2020 Toyota Landcruiser hasn’t received many updates. However, a new Heritage Edition trim has hit the lineup. Aside from deleting the third-row seat, this trim has a few special exterior touches. Its bronze BBS wheels definitely stand out. 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser – The Pros

1. Strong V8 Engine Comes Standard

Every 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser is motivated by a 5.7-liter, i-Force V8 engine. While this engine may not be especially efficient, it does pack a lot of muscle. Toyota rates to push out 381 horsepower and more than 400 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission allows you to maximize the engine’s output. There’s enough power for you to accelerate quickly when needed. You can also use the Land Cruiser’s brawn to tow more than 8,000 pounds.

2. Legendary Reliability

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser is built to outlast the typical SUV. Over the years, it has earned a reputation for its durability. While resale value remains high, most owners opt to keep their Land Cruiser on a long-term basis. With regular servicing, this bulletproof vehicle can easily top the 300,000-mile mark with no major issues. Because the Land Cruiser is unlikely to experience a sudden breakdown, it’s a great choice for traveling. Maintenance is also quite affordable.

3. Made for the Rough Backcountry

Unlike a modern crossover, the 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser is designed with a truck-based frame. This means it’s far tougher. It remains one of today’s top SUVs for venturing off-road. A full-time 4WD system comes standard on both of the available trims. Whether you’re climbing a snowy mountain road or driving on a muddy trail, traction shouldn’t be an issue. Toyota’s Crawl Control system also comes standard, which helps you to confidently maneuver on rough terrain.

4. Easy to Drive On the Street

While the 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser has a tough-nosed design, it delivers good on-road comfort. Most people are surprised by the Land Cruiser’s nice ride. Toyota’s Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System has just the right amount of firmness. Precise steering also makes the Land Cruiser very manageable on fast-moving highways. At times, it’s easy to forget you’re behind the wheel of a 5,815-pound SUV. Although this big SUV will exhibit some body roll around curves, it’s not bad.

5. Conservative Exterior Styling Ages Well

The Toyota Land Cruiser’s styling hasn’t changed much over the last decade. However, it’s aged quite well. Because of the Land Cruiser’s blocky design, you can expect it to remain stylish for years to come. A prominent front grille gives this SUV an upscale look. If you desire more flair, step up to the new Heritage Edition trim. Aside from a cool set of BBS wheels, this trim also comes equipped with a special roof rack and dark exterior treatments.

6. All-Day Comfort for Passengers

When riding in the 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser, you and your passenger can relax. While the third row lacks legroom, the first two rows are especially spacious. Meanwhile, a supportive driver’s seat makes lengthy road trips more relaxing. A heated power-adjustable steering wheel and climate-controlled front seats come standard. You’ll also appreciate the cabin’s quietness. Although you may hear a peaceful rumble from the Land Cruiser’s V8 engine, don’t expect to hear a great deal of wind and road noise.

7. Optional Rear-Seat Entertainment System

While there are not many options available for the new Land Cruiser, the available rear entertainment system is a must for families. Kids will definitely appreciate the extra amusement. It features two separate display screens, which translates to fewer arguments between children. While a DVD player enables movie watching, you can also hook the unit up to a gaming console. When taking an out-of-town road trip, parents will be less likely to hear any complaints about the length of the journey.

8. Safety Technologies Are Standard

Like most features on the 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser, its various accident-avoidance technologies come standard. This is a big plus for folks who desire a bit of driver assistance. When driving in crowded areas, a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection gives you more confidence. When a potential impact is detected, the system will automatically apply pressure to the brakes. Meanwhile, radar-based cruise control seamlessly adjusts your speed when approaching a slowing vehicle. Lane departure alert and automatic high beams are also standard. ‘

9. JBL Sound System

Toyota equips the new Land Cruiser with a standard JBL audio system. This means you don’t have to pay extra for premium sound quality. Automotive critics praise the audio system for its lack of distortion. You can blast your favorite songs without worrying about any fuzziness. A 605-watt amplifier feeds power to a total of 14 speakers. The enclosed 8.0-inch subwoofer allows you to feel deep bass notes.

10. Heritage Edition Model Provides Extra Cargo Space

The base trim’s third-row seat limits its cargo space to roughly 16.0 cubic feet. If you desire more storage room, opt for the Heritage Edition trim. It does not have a third row, which means you can pack a lot of stuff. It allows you to load the Land Cruiser with camping gear, home improvement supplies, and a variety of other different things.  

Reasons Not to Buy a 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser – The Cons

1. Not Great On Gas

If you are looking for an eco-friendly vehicle, the 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser is not the best choice. It’s a heavy-duty SUV that sips a lot of fuel. According to the latest EPA fuel economy estimates, drivers can expect the Land Cruiser to return a combined 15 mpg. Luckily, you can fill the tank with regular unleaded. Drivers who are concerned about saving gas should consider the Toyota Highlander crossover, which is a bit more frugal.

2. Not Sporty

While the Toyota Land Cruiser is easy to drive, it’s far from sporty. You can compare the Landcruiser to a pickup truck. There’s no overlooking the Land Cruiser’s sheer mass. When taking corners, the SUV’s weight definitely becomes a factor. Folks buy the Landcruiser more for its versatility and impressive off-road prowess.

3. Expensive Purchase

Drivers interested in the new Land Cruiser should prepare to spend some big money. Prices start at more than $85,000. Folks interested in the new Heritage Edition trim can expect to pay nearly $90,000. For some consumers, the cost of a new Land Cruiser may prove to be a deal breaker. There are several more reasonably priced options on the market.

4. Third Row a Little Cramped

The Land Cruiser’s standard third-row seat may prove to be an asset for big families. It allows up to eight people to climb inside. Unfortunately, leg space is minimal. While small kids will have no issues, adults will feel cramped. Folks who need a roomier third row should check out the larger Toyota Sequoia.

5. Takes Up Space

You may have trouble parking the 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser in tight spots. While the Land Cruiser is not the biggest SUV in the segment, it still takes up a fair amount of space. Helpful features, like an automated parking system and a 360-degree parking camera, are not offered. The compact Toyota RAV4 is far more suitable for city dwellers.

How It Stacks Up Against the Competition

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is a good match for the 2020 Toyota Landcruiser. While the GLS-class is luxurious, it loses to Landcruiser in a few areas. Some people may favor the Land Cruiser’s standard V-8 engine, which is just a bit more potent than Mercedes-Benz’s turbocharged six-cylinder engine. Mercedes-Benz rates the GLS-Class to tow up to 7,700 pounds, which is lower than the Land Cruiser’s 8,100-pound rating. You can also expect the Land Cruiser to be more affordable to maintain.

2020 Lincoln Navigation

Based on the Ford Expedition, the 2020 Lincoln Navigator is strong and luxurious. However, it cannot match the Land Cruiser’s off-road capabilities. Ford does not offer the Navigator with nearly has many trail-ready features.

2020 Land Rover Range Rover

While the Ranger Rover may deliver a more exciting performance on the street, it’s standard engine isn’t as powerful. Third-row seating also isn’t available for the Range Rover. In terms of reliability, the 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser clearly outclasses the Range Rover. Traditionally, Land Rover SUVs are far more expensive to service.

Conclusion

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser fulfills a special niche. It’s a great luxury vehicle for folks who enjoy off-roading. A number of nice amenities come standard. Despite its above-average MSRP, superb long-term reliability makes the 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser an outstanding investment. However, poor fuel economy is definitely a sore spot for the new Landcruiser. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also still missing.