Toyota prices 300 Series LandCruiser from $89,990

BY CALLUM HUNTER | 5th Aug 2021

TOYOTA Australia has announced the local pricing and specification highlights of its all-new 300 Series LandCruiser, with the new-generation off-road icon set to start from $89,990 plus on-road costs when it arrives here next quarter.

Six different variants will be offered, starting with the base GX at the aforementioned sticker price before prices rise to $101,790 for the GXL, $113,990 for the VX, $131,190 for the Sahara, $137,790 for the GR Sport and $138,790 for the flagship Sahara ZX.

Not only is the new range more expansive than the outgoing 200 Series range, it’s also more expensive across the board with prices rising by between $6917 and $10,717 for the existing ‘core’ nameplates while the GR Sport and Sahara ZX have no direct predecessors.

The price increases can be attributed to the fact this is an all-new model, riding on a bespoke version of Toyota’s TNGA global platform and powered exclusively by a new twin-turbocharged 3.3-litre V6 diesel engine developing 227kW/700Nm.

The grunty bent-six is paired to an equally new 10-speed automatic transmission which drives all four wheels all of the time.

Described by Toyota as “the most capable LandCruiser ever”, all versions of the 300 Series will come as standard with an ‘AWD Integrated Management’ system which ties the steering assist, brake and throttle control, shift pattern and drive torque distribution together for “precise handling and stability”.

Standard equipment highlights on the entry-level GX include a 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration, dusk-sensing LED headlights, keyless entry and start, dual-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera, express windows, electric park brake, downhill assist control and road-sign assist.

Stepping up to the GXL adds 18-inch alloy wheels, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, Qi wireless phone charging, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and the new multi-terrain select off-road system.

Things are stepped up quite drastically in the VX which adds a heap of extra toys and gadgets to the package, including a bigger 12.3-inch multimedia system, 10-speaker sound system, a 7.0-inch colour multi-info display, four-zone climate control, remote power windows, power-adjustable steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, rear parking support brake, panoramic view monitor and a ‘vehicle dynamics integrated management’ system (drive modes).

The Sahara meanwhile, once the flagship of the LandCruiser portfolio, goes even further, adding a 14-speaker JBL audio system, head-up display, heated steering wheel, easy-access ventilation for the heated second-row seats and a power-folding third-row.

As for the GR Sport and Sahara ZX, Toyota will be marketing them both as flagship models, albeit with two very different intentions.

“Our new GR Sport is the absolute expression of the LandCruiser DNA – the ultimate 4WD that is specially equipped for owners who truly love driving on rough trails and in off-road rallies,” Toyota Australia sales, marketing and franchise operations vice president Sean Hanley said.

To mark it out as the hardcore off-roader of the bunch, the GR Sport brandishes a completely different look to the other models, headlined by its black mesh grille adorned with ‘TOYOTA’ block capital badging as well as the black 18-inch alloys, wheelarches, front bumper, side steps, door handles, mirror casings and window lines.

Diehard fans and adventurous types will be pleased to read the GR Sport will be able to back-up its rugged looks with equally rugged hardware lurking under the skin like front and rear differential locks and electronic sway bar disconnect – ‘electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System’ in Toyota speak.

These key features are in addition to all of the toys and hardware fitted to the lower tiers, however it’s worth noting all 300 Series’ feature the same 235mm of ground clearance.

Inside the cabin will be two trim options; black and imitation ‘carbon-like ornamentation’ or black and red – both feature a healthy dosing of leather.

Going in the other direction, the Sahara ZX is the luxury yacht of the range, featuring a unique front fascia and remodelled rear bumper, body-coloured wheelarches, illuminated side steps and chrome trim.

Riding on 20-inch alloy wheels, the Sahara ZX will arguably be the least capable off-road due to its reduced approach angle (24 degrees vs 32 degrees), extended front overhang and lower profile tyres, however it should prove one of the most comfortable and dynamic thanks to its adaptive suspension (also featured on the GR Sport).

“The graceful styling of the Sahara ZX adds an even more prestigious and advanced high-quality image for customers who use their LandCruiser primarily for urban driving and holiday getaways with their families,” Mr Hanley said.

That’s not to say it can’t go off the beaten track – it still shares the same 235mm of ground clearance and a ‘torque-sensing’ limited slip differential.

Inside the cabin will be the choice of black, beige or red-and-black leather upholstery, all complemented by the carbon-look trim on the steering wheel, centre console and doors.

Both the GR Sport and Sahara ZX will come with five driving modes and adaptive high beam, but the latter ups the opulence with four heated and ventilated seats and a hands-free tailgate with kick sensor.

All 300 Series’ will feature a low-range transfer case, 3500kg braked towing capacity and a trailer wiring harness.

Toyota has sold 12,159 LandCruiser wagons so far this year ending July 31, accounting for an unassailable 87.4 per cent share of the sub-$100,000 upper large SUV segment which it shares with the Nissan Patrol (1745/12.6%).

2022 Toyota LandCruiser pricing*