Toyota has expanded the availability of its most powerful hybrid version of the Land Cruiser 300, bringing the electrified SUV to select Eastern European markets following its debut in the Middle East last year. In contrast, Western Europe and North America will still have to settle for the more luxurious Lexus LX or the slightly smaller Land Cruiser 250, as the 300 series with the classic chassis remains out of their range.
Twin-turbo V6 meets electric drive
The hybrid Land Cruiser 300 is also the most powerful version to date, with a combined power of 464 hp (341 kW) and a torque of 790 Nm. That power comes from a 3.5-liter V6 twin-turbo engine paired with a single electric motor, located between the internal combustion engine and a ten-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels.
According to Carscoops, this car delivers up to 40 percent more powerful acceleration compared to the version powered solely by the 3.3-liter twin-turbo engine. The electric motor helps sharpen throttle response and smooth torque delivery, and can also operate in all-electric mode at speeds of up to 30 km/h, drawing power from a nickel-metal hydride battery.
To preserve its reputation as a go-anywhere vehicle, the battery is housed in a waterproof housing, keeping the 700mm tread depth completely intact. Toyota claims that the hybrid has been tested in demanding conditions around the world and they are confident in its off-road capabilities.
Furthermore, the Land Cruiser 300 Hybrid comes with electric power steering, which aims to improve precision and control on different surfaces, while off-road technology carried over from the standard model, including Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control, Downhill Assist Control and Multi-Terrain Monitor.
Three rich levels of equipment
In Europe, customers will be able to choose between three trim levels – entry-level VX, mid-range ZX and the most powerful GR Sport. All variants come exclusively in a five-seat configuration, without the option of a third row. Of these three, only the ZX, shown in the official photos, comes with a redesigned aerodynamic package.
But the good news is that equipment is pretty generous across the board, as even the entry-level VX comes standard with 18-inch wheels, a power tailgate, full LED headlights, dual 12.3-inch screens, a 14-speaker JBL audio system, four-zone climate control, a heated steering wheel, power front seats and a 1,500-watt power outlet.
Stepping up to the ZX level brings more technology, including Adaptive Variable Suspension, a five-mode selector, a head-up display, a kick-sensing tailgate and a limited-slip rear differential. Finally, the GR Sport retains its signature rugged look with unique bumpers, grille, fenders and 18-inch wheels, and adds Toyota’s more advanced e-KDSS (Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System), which can disengage the anti-roll bars to maximize wheel travel.
At the moment, it is not certain exactly in which Eastern European countries the Land Cruiser 300 Hybrid will be available, nor what its price will be.