2010 Toyota Land Cruiser

The Toyota Land Cruiser enjoys a special status in the global market as a vehicle that has proved its tough, lasting and reliable qualities in the most extreme environments. This pedigree has provided the platform for the development of an all-new Toyota Land Cruiser that goes further than ever before to deliver a balance of go-anywhere performance with the poise, comfort and refinement motorists want in normal day-to-day driving.

Makoto Arimoto, new Toyota Land Cruiser's Chief Engineer explains: "Generally speaking, it's considered difficult to achieve both good off-road and on-road performance in the same vehicle. But with the new Land Cruiser, rather than making a half-hearted attempt at offering 50:50 ratio between on and off-road capabilities, we put no less than 100 per cent into developing both. We believe we have succeeded in refining and improving both of these seemingly conflicting qualities."

The success of new Toyota Land Cruiser is built on three core product values:
Quality, durability and reliability, building on Land Cruiser's long and distinguished history and reputation for lasting performance.
Unrivalled balance of on and off-road driving performance, supported by advanced suspension and driver aid technologies.
Refined and versatile interior, offering a functional but luxurious and comfortable on-board environment.

New Toyota Land Cruiser benefits from a higher level of advanced but user friendly handling and guidance features that help the driver tackle the most challenging routes. At the same time new suspension technology and on-board monitors make Land Cruiser more comfortable and easier to manoeuvre through everyday urban traffic, too. Clever interior packaging provides highly flexible seating and luggage space arrangements, with generous space for up to seven on board. Most models enjoy a high specification of luxury features, including a surround sound premium audio system, triple-zone automatic air conditioning and a DVD/gaming entertainment package for rear seat passengers, creating a welcoming environment inside the vehicle whatever the driving conditions outside might be like.


Customer orders are being taken now with first deliveries from early December 2009. On-the-road prices range from £29,795 to £44,795.

DESIGN

The design of the new Toyota Land Cruiser is true to its heritage and projects the qualities of a vehicle that is robust, powerful and entirely at home in any environment.

At the front there is a new over-size bumper design with integral fog lamps, which emphasises Land Cruiser's powerful stance. The impact of the front overhang on the off-road driving approach angle has been minimised by sharply trimming the lower section. The new front grille has vertical bars, highlighted in chrome and silver finishes on higher grade versions, framed by headlamp clusters with cylindrical high and low beam lamps and turn indicators that extend into the wings so they are visible from the side.

In profile, new Toyota Land Cruiser's displays fluid and dynamic lines, with the cowl moved 65mm forwards, the belt line raised by 20mm and integral front and rear wheelarches flared towards the rear of the vehicle, like those on the larger Toyota Land Cruiser V8.

At the rear high-visibility LED lamp clusters flank the side-hinged tailgate, which is inset deep into the rear bumper to provide a practical, level access step, protected by a hard-wearing cover. The tailgate includes a top-hinged glass hatch, giving easy access to the load space, particularly in tight parking spots where opening of the full tailgate might be impeded. The hatch can be unlocked and opened one-handed, using the smart key or a button release next to the bottom left hand corner of the glass. An integral roof spoiler houses the rear screen wiper and high-mounted LED stop light.

The door mirror-mounted turn indicators and the rear lamps use LEDs in place of conventional bulbs. These light up more quickly, giving other drivers more time to react to vehicle braking, and they use less electricity.

In the UK new Toyota Land Cruiser is available in five exterior paint finishes: Astral Black, a new Deep Titanium metallic, Tyrol Silver metallic, Decuma Grey metallic and, exclusive to LC5 models, Pearl White metallic. LC3 models are fitted with 17-inch alloy wheels, with LC4 and LC5 versions riding on 18-inch rims.

Aerodynamics

Seamless bodywork with minimal panel gaps and a series of aerodynamic enhancements have reduced the vehicle's coefficient of drag (Cd) from 0.37 (current model) to 0.35, which in return supports a marked improvement in high-speed cruising fuel economy.

Aerodynamic efficiency has been improved by reducing the overall height by 15mm, and by introducing front and rear spoilers to channel airflow under the body and direct it cleanly away from the trailing edge of the roof. Deflectors inside the engine compartment correct the flow of air through the radiator grille to reduce turbulence, and the design of the front bumper includes extended corners to push air away from the sides of the front tyres, making for a smoother rearward airflow. Front and rear spats are fitted to manage airflow around the tyres and cut turbulence.

Fitting a fin-shaped aero wiper blade cover and concealing the screen washer nozzles reduces wind noise and further improves aerodynamic performance.

Packaging

To preserve Land Cruiser's agile character, there are only modest increases in external dimensions: the new model is 45mm longer and 10mm wider than its predecessor, with a minimum turning radius of 5.8m.

The wheelbase (2,790mm) and rear overhang (1,075mm) remain the same and clever design of the new front bumper ensures that, although the front overhang is longer by 45mm (at 895mm), the 32° approach angle is unchanged. The departure angle is 25° (24° with electrically modulated rear air suspension) and the ramp breakover angle is 22°.

The corners of the bonnet have been raised, which makes it easier for the driver to precisely locate the vehicle's front extremities when moving in tight urban areas, or navigating close to off-road obstacles.

SAFETY

New Toyota Land Cruiser is equipped with a comprehensive and technically advanced range of active and passive on and off-road safety features. Advanced engineering and sophisticated electronic systems provide a high level of protection while at the same time making driving more rewarding, helping the driver explore and enjoy the limits of the vehicle's performance.

Body structure

Collisions between tall vehicles, such as SUVs, and passenger cars can result in the larger vehicle riding up over the smaller one. To counter this risk, Toyota works to ensure the safety systems of both vehicles involved in a collision can be used to their maximum potential.

To this end, the front crumple zone in the new Land Cruiser's frame is set at a height equivalent to that of an average passenger car. The frame and body are designed to effectively channel and absorb impact energies to help protect all parties involved, even those on the receiving of a collision in a smaller vehicle.

Numerous measures have been taken to control body deformation in a frontal collision, while preserving the structural integrity of the cabin. Reinforcements in the A-pillars have a multi-layer construction between the roof rail reinforcement and cowl to give increased buckling strength and improved energy sustainability when buckled, which helps limit body deformation. In addition, the lower front pillar reinforcements also have a multi-layer construction and high-strength outer rocker panel reinforcements have been introduced.

Using high-tensile sheet steel for the front pillar and roof rail reinforcement improves side collision performance. The roof header reinforcement has a closed top and bottom cross-section, giving added strength and floor cross-members are strategically placed to effectively distribute impact forces - measures which both further help to reduce the risk cabin deformation.

A highly effective multiple load-path cross-member structure channels impact energy from the B-pillars, and inner rocker-to-frame load path brackets carry energy from the outer rocker.

Occupant protection is further enhanced by the foam padded door panels and door trims, reducing the risk of pelvic injuries in a side collision, and crushable door armrests.

Pedestrian protection

New Toyota Land Cruiser's bonnet, cowl and front wings are all designed to absorb as much energy as possible in the event of a collision with a pedestrian.

The bonnet has a deep, energy-absorbing profile with longitudinal reinforcement ribs. Crush points and holes behind the bonnet striker reinforcement ensure there is an ample impact absorption zone.

The front wing mounting brackets have crush points for effective energy absorption, and the wings themselves incorporate energy-absorbing protectors, with a construction designed to slip down in a head impact, so reducing the reaction force sustained by the pedestrian.

Airbags and active headrests

New Land Cruiser is equipped as standard with seven SRS airbags: driver's dual-stage front airbag, a new driver's knee airbag, passenger front airbag, front side airbags and full-length curtain airbags, giving head protection to outer seat occupants in all three rows.

The front seats are fitted with seatbelts with pretensioners and new-design active headrests that help prevent whiplash injury. Extra protection is provided through a new seatback design, allied to a headrest shaped to sit as close as possible to the occupant's head in normal use. In a rear impact, the force of the body on the seatback causes the headrest to move up and forward to close the gap between the head and headrest, thus significantly reducing the risk of whiplash.

High Intensity Discharge headlamps and Adaptive Front-lighting

LC4 and LC5 versions of new Toyota Land Cruiser are fitted with High Intensity Discharge (HID) bulbs in the low beam headlamp projectors, which emit a near-daylight colour and give wider and longer illumination. The bulbs are also low-energy and have a long lifespan.

An Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) works in conjunction with the HID headlamps, swivelling the low beam in line with vehicle speed and steering angle to provide better lighting through bends and when turning at junctions. AFS also has a dynamic levelling function which maintains a constant beam height, whatever the load on board, or change in vehicle posture.

Braking and stability control systems

New Toyota Land Cruiser's servo-assisted braking system uses new 388mm ventilated front discs with width increased to 32mm. Four-piston callipers with larger pistons are used for improved stopping power and fade-free performance. At the rear there are 312mm ventilated discs with floating callipers.

The vehicle comes as standard with a full range of braking, traction control and stability systems: ABS with EBD and Brake Assist; Traction Control (TRC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC).

During emergency braking, the stop lamps automatically flash to alert following drivers.

Further brake control systems are provided specifically to enhance off-road performance and ease of use in taxing conditions, including Multi-terrain ABS, Active Traction Control (A-TRC), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) and Downhill Assist Control (DAC). Details of their operation can be found in the Off-Road Performance section.

ON-ROAD PERFORMANCE

Much of Land Cruiser's legendary off-road toughness can be attributed to its robust and durable body-on-frame construction. This concept has been carried over from the previous generation model, but with rigidity increased by 11 per cent.

Another advantage over the monocoque design used by many rival SUVs is the ability of the ladder frame to absorb vibrations and noise from the engine, drivetrain and road surface, so limiting NVH disturbance in the cabin. To further absorb NVH and aid a comfortable ride, the frame-to-body mounts are packed with insulating rubber.

Using high tensile steel within the body saves weight as well as increasing bodyshell rigidity.

Suspension

New Toyota Land Cruiser uses an extensively revised version of the front independent double wishbone and rear four-link rigid suspension system that was used in its predecessor model, retuned for greater ride comfort and better steering feel.

At the front a long wheel stroke has been retained and the shock absorbers and springs have been optimised. The shocks themselves are larger than before. The lower arm and knuckle have been reinforced and all the bushings have been retuned. To achieve better handling stability, the roll steer ratio has been modified from five to eight degrees.

At the rear the long wheel stroke has been enhanced with optimised springs and shock absorbers, with, again, larger shocks adopted. Bushings have been retuned and the axle housing has been reinforced for added strength and durability.

Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System

The new, electrically modulated Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), fitted to LC4 and LC5 models, optimises the effect of the front and rear anti-roll bars for better on and off-road performance (see Off-road Performance section below for further details).

On-road the system works to minimise body roll, improve steering response and absorb the effects of driving over poor road surfaces.

Individual hydraulic cylinders are fitted to the anti-roll bars, each with an upper and lower chamber. The front and rear upper chambers and front and rear lower chambers are connected to each other by separate hydraulic lines, each containing an accumulator.

As the vehicle begins to roll in a turn, equal wheel forces occur on the outer wheels. As a result, the fluid in the hydraulic lines remains still, holding the front and rear cylinder pistons in place, so the anti-roll bars suppress the suspension stroke and body roll is reduced.

On rough surfaces, however, a slightly uneven force is experienced between the front and rear wheels. In this case, the electrically controlled accumulator valves rapidly open and close to absorb the movement of fluid in the hydraulic lines. This dampens vibrations by absorbing bumps in the road surface, making for a more comfortable ride.

Adaptive Variable Suspension

An Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system is fitted to LC5 models, allowing the driver to fine-tune the Land Cruiser's ride characteristics. Three settings are available, controlled by a switch on the centre console: Normal mode for everyday driving; Comfort mode for extra comfort when cruising; and Sport mode for better body control and precise steering response when cornering.

AVS automatically adjusts suspension performance at all four wheels independently, monitoring data from numerous sensors to continuously optimise the damping force of each shock absorber by activating the appropriate actuator.

Working in response to driver inputs, vehicle body motion and road surface quality, AVS activates adjustable damping to fulfil a range of specific control functions:
Vehicle speed-sensitive control gradually increases the damping force as speed rises, to achieve low-speed comfort with high-speed driveability and stability.
Anti-dive control increases the front-end damping force under braking to reduce front-end dive.
Anti-squat control increases the rear-end damping force to minimise squat during acceleration.

Selecting Sport mode automatically increases the different between inner and outer shock absorber damping through corners to further reduce vehicle roll.

The AVS system also incorporates Roll Posture Control, to give a vehicle posture that matches the driver's intuitive feeling. By controlling the damping force the phase difference between roll angle and pitch angle when cornering is minimised.

Electronically Modulated Rear Air Suspension

An electronically modulated rear air suspension system (fitted to Toyota Land Cruiser LC5 models) works in conjunction with the AVS to maintain optimum control of the rear suspension and give uncompromised stability and ride quality, regardless of how many people are on board, or how much cargo is being carried. It also excels in absorbing high frequency vibrations to reduced road-generated NVH.

The system has five control modes:
Auto Levelling, which maintains a constant rear body height, regardless of number of occupants or size of load.
Switchable Height Control, which lets the driver select a Normal, High or Low vehicle height setting.
Speed-Sensitive Control, which ensures the best stability and ride comfort by automatically returning the vehicle from High or Low vehicle height to the Normal setting once a certain speed has been reached.
Ignition-off Linked Control, which, activated for a certain length of time after the ignition is switched off, prevents the rear height from rising after passengers get out of the vehicle.
Height Control OFF switch, which disables height control when lifting or towing the vehicle.

Variable Flow Control Power Steering

New Toyota Land Cruiser uses the same hard-wearing hydraulic power steering system as its predecessor, but with the benefit of revision and the addition of Variable Flow Control (VFC). VFC combines direct response and feel when cruising with effortless operation at parking speeds, plus a dedicated setting for off-road driving.

The steering gear ratio has been modified for a more agile response to steering inputs, and the steering rack support bushings have been returned to reduce steering shake and vibration under braking, giving a more comfortable ride.

VFC is an evolution of traditional speed-sensitive power steering that takes into account factors such as vehicle speed, steering angle and steering rate to deliver an idea steering fluid flow in all driving conditions. Controlling the flow in this way adjusts how heavy or light the steering feels to the driver.

When the Land Cruiser is travelling in a straight line, VFC is in stand-by mode, reducing the power draw on the engine and thus improving fuel economy. When cornering or manoeuvring, VFC gives instant response to steering inputs with the correct fluid flow rate. At low speeds the flow rate is increased to reduce steering effort, making the wheel easier to turn. As vehicle speed rises, the flow rate progressively decreases to give a more direct and responsive steering feel.

Because it is hard to judge terrain conditions if the steering feel is constantly changing, VFC incorporates a dedicated off-road setting that is automatically activated when the driver selects L4 mode. This setting recalibrates the system to give a constant fluid flow rate regardless of vehicle speed, steering angle or steering rate. This constant level of steering assistance helps the driver gain a better idea of how much grip the tyres have through the steering wheel.

Quietness

In addition to the significant NVH benefits from its body-on-frame construction, new Toyota Land Cruiser also features a number of measures designed to cut wind and road noise, resulting in a very quiet cabin environment.

Air cavities have been introduced into the bonnet silencer, reducing engine noise. Sound insulation materials are placed in the A, B, C and D-pillars and the door sill and head sections to minimise the transmission of noise through the bodyshell. Sound dampening and insulating materials are used throughout the cabin, in the carpeting, door trims, roof headliners, luggage compartment side trim and dashboard silencer.

Measures to reduce wind noise include an acoustic windscreen which has an inner layer of film sandwiched between the glass. The step between the windscreen and the roof and side rain gutters has been kept to a minimum, and a front spoiler and undercover are fitted to smooth the airflow under the front of the car.

OFF-ROAD PERFORMANCE

An SUV designed to tackle truly tough off-road terrain has to have a generous ground clearance. But this is not just about the distance between the lowest point of the vehicle body and the ground: there are three other measurements that dictate the quality of off-road ability: the approach angle, ramp breakover angle and departure angle.

The new Toyota Land Cruiser has a minimum ground clearance of 215mm. The approach angle, which determines the maximum gradient the vehicle can approach with the underside of the front bumper hitting the ground, is 32°. The ramp breakover angle (measured from the centre of the underbody to the contact points of the front and rear tyres), which determines the gradient the vehicle can crest without the ground contacting the underbody, is 22°. And the departure angle, which governs the maximum gradient the vehicle can negotiate without the underside of the rear bumper hitting the ground, is 25°, or 24° on models equipped with air suspension.

New Land Cruiser can also be driven at a maximum bank angle of 42° and at a maximum forward or reverse pitch angle of 42°. Its maximum wading depth is 700mm.

Even with its generous ground clearance, there is always a risk of the underside of the vehicle coming into contact with the ground when driving over very rough terrain. For this reason, both the front and rear bumpers and the ladder frame cross-member have been designed to slide easily over any obstacles. Many other SUVs have box-shaped cross-members, which means they can easily become caught on stop the vehicle, causing damage at the same time. The new Toyota Land Cruiser's slanted cross-member is shaped to slide up and over such hazards without causing damage.

Suspension

As detailed in the on-road performance section, new Land Cruiser has a revised independent front suspension design and a four-link rear system with a lateral rod, giving strength, reliability and durability with the degree of long wheel stroke that is required for outstanding off-road performance.

The left and right sides of the rear suspension are connected by a rigid axle, giving better ground clearance and body stability that could be achieved with an independent design.

Working in conjunction with the new Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (see below), Toyota Land Cruiser's wheel articulation ensures all the tyres can gain the best possible ground contact, even over the most severe terrain.

Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System

Full details of the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) operation can be found in the On-road Performance section. In off-road driving, KDSS, fitted to LC4 and LC5 models, optimises the effect of the front and rear anti-roll bars to increase wheel articulation (the vertical distance an individual wheel can move while the others remain in contact with the ground).

Driving over rough ground generates unequal front and rear wheel forces, which causes the piston in each hydraulic cylinder to create an opposite stroke. This counteracts the resistance of the anti-roll bar and allows the suspension to move freely. With both front and rear anti-roll bars virtually disconnected, the available wheel stroke is maximised, ensuring all four tyres can remain in contact with the ground wherever possible.

Adaptive Variable Suspension and Electronically Modulated Rear Air Suspension

Both the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) and electronically modulated rear air suspension systems on the Land Cruiser LC5 have bespoke off-road settings to maximise the vehicle's all-terrain abilities.

The AVS has a new Damper Optimisation Control feature that automatically adjusts shock absorber damping force to suit vehicle speed when L4 mode is selected. At slow speeds the dampers are optimised for crawling over the roughest terrain, while at moderate speeds they adjust to suit normal driving conditions. This degree of control allows for uncompromised off-road performance while keeping the bumps and jolts caused by rough, off-road surfaces to a minimum.

In addition, when driving off-road, the valve on the hydraulic pipe connection between the left and right hand rear air suspension units remains open to ensure maximum wheel stroke and articulation.

OFF-ROAD TECHNOLOGY

The new Toyota Land Cruiser is engineered to excel over sand, rocks or any other demanding conditions it might encounter; giving maximum traction at all times to deliver the level of off-road performance for which the model is renowned.

The grip, slip and torque requirements generated by different terrain will make different demands on the permanent four-wheel drive system. For instance, soft terrain, such as sand, requires as much power as possible to be transferred to the ground, allowing a large amount of slip to let the tyres dig in and achieve maximum grip. By contrast, the slow traverse of rocks or slippery surfaces requires precise regulation of power to the wheels to control wheelspin and ensure a constant, steady level of grip.

Full-time four-wheel drive with Torsen limited slip differential

The new Toyota Land Cruiser's proven permanent four-wheel drive system uses a Torsen limited slip differential (LSD) in the centre differential. The LSD uses low viscosity oil to reduce friction and support vehicle fuel efficiency.

The unit has a motorised transfer shift actuator for easier High-Low gear ratio shifting and the shift effort itself has been reduced by 30 per cent, giving better performance in cold weather.

In normal conditions, torque is split 40:60 front to rear, but the LSD can automatically vary the ratio from 50:50 to approximately 30:70 in order to achieve the optimum distribution in any given driving scenario.

The four-wheel drive system also has a new rear differential, designed for greater reliability and strength with a 34 per cent increase in torque capacity. An additional rear diff lock is fitted to LC5 models, increasing stability especially in extreme off-road conditions.

Instead of a conventional transfer shift lever, the new Land Cruiser has an easy-to-use dial switch, located along with the centre and rear differential locking switches on the centre console. Using these switches in combination lets the driver choose H4F, H4L, L4F and L4L modes - that is High or Low gear ratio with the centre differential Free or Locked.

Active Traction Control

The Active Traction Control (A-TRC) system uses brake and engine control and the distribution of appropriate torque between all four wheels to maintain traction when pulling away or driving on low-grip surfaces.

The system receives constant speed signals from each wheel, so it can detect which might be spinning and which have traction. By braking the spinning wheels, controlling engine output and distributing torque to those with grip, it automatically provides maximum traction on rough terrain. It also helps avoid wheelspin when pulling away or accelerating, even on slick roads and muddy tracks.

Multi-terrain Select

A standard feature on the Toyota Land Cruiser LC5, Multi-terrain Select (MTS) is an evolution of the A-TRC system and a Toyota first.

MTS automatically modifies vehicle acceleration, braking and traction control to suit the off-road conditions, providing the driver with optimum traction and vehicle control.

The system is activated using the multi-information switch on the steering wheel and accessed via the multi-information display. It offers four terrain modes: Mud and Sand, Loose Rock, Mogul and Rock. The mode selected is shown in the display, with an additional prompt to the driver of the required H4 or L4 four-wheel drive transfer range. The Multi-terrain Monitor (full details in the Driver Information section) automatically displays the view ahead of the vehicle.

Mud and Sand mode gives high wheel slip level in L4 or H4 to allow the wheels to dig into the surface and secure traction. The MTS traction control minimises selective wheel breaking to permit a necessary degree of wheelspin. These functions work in combination to prevent the vehicle from getting bogged down on soft ground.

Loose Rock mode works in the L4 range to allow a degree of wheel slip to maintain tyre momentum and to affect a greater degree of selective braking to control wheelspin. This is mode is particularly useful for maintaining vehicle momentum when climbing gradients.

Mogul mode, which operates in L4 range, makes grip the priority by only allowing a moderate amount of wheel slip, to maintain a slow, steady vehicle speed. At the same time, MTS traction control applies moderate selective braking to maintain grip. This mode is recommended for any conditions that do not specifically match the other MTS modes. It will retain momentum over even the most severe, irregular, undulating terrain.

Rock mode, also used with the L4 transfer range, minimises wheel slip to give maximum grip, while simultaneously applying strong selective braking. With the slip ratio of each wheel controlled independently, maximum grip and traction are obtained, even when traversing large obstacles.

Drivers should choose an MTS mode on the basis of the amount of wheelspin encountered. For example, when excessive wheelspin prevents the vehicle from gaining enough traction, a more aggressive mode, closer to the Rock setting, should be selected. Conversely, when there is too little wheelspin to achieve the necessary traction, a less aggressive setting, closer to Mud and Sand is recommended.

In any of the four modes, if the vehicle is stuck and the wheels are spinning freely, the centre differential can be locked for added traction. If the wheels continue to spin after locking the diff in L4 range, the rear differential may also be locked (on LC5 models). A Crawl Control function may also be used to free the vehicle.

Crawl Control

Crawl Control, another standard feature of the Land Cruiser LC5, can help the driver ascend or descend slopes at walking pace, or free the vehicle when stuck, without having to touch the pedals.

The system works in L4 range and is activated by a dashboard switch. It gives a range of five speed settings, automatically controlling engine and brakes to maintain the desired speed. With no need for careful use of the throttle or brake pedals, the driver can concentrate fully on steering the vehicle.

Crawl Control has a number of other benefits. Its smooth control allows a slow and steady pace to be maintained, avoiding the risk of wheels spinning or locking. This reduces the amount of body movement on severe terrain, helping prevent the vehicle from bottoming out and causing damage. It also permits wading at a similarly slow and even speed, reducing the risk of the engine flooding, or submerged objects causing damage. Crawl Control operates in reverse gear, too, helping the driver when backing up over difficult surfaces.

Multi-terrain ABS

The multi-terrain ABS system fitted to the new Toyota Land Cruiser has been calibrated to give remarkable stopping power across a wide range of off-road surfaces. While the system prevents the wheels from locking under braking on tarmac roads in the same way as a conventional ABS, it deliberately allows for a certain degree of wheel-locking on loose surfaces, helping the tyres find purchase by digging in, so increasing stopping power.

Hill-start Assist Control and Downhill Assist Control

Hill-start Control and Downhill Assist Control are fitted to both new LC3 and LC4 grades (LC5 is fitted with Crawl Control).

Hill-start Control detects any backward slip of the vehicle during an uphill start and temporarily applies the brakes to all four wheels for a maximum five seconds, allowing the driver to pull away without losing control.

Downhill Assist Control automatically governs vehicle speed to prevent the Land Cruiser from running downhill out of control. Operated by the driver, it can be switched on when L4 is selected in the transfer range. It works at speed less than 15mph, with no need for the driver to use the brake and accelerator pedals. Forward speed is controlled to between 3 and 4mph; reverse speed to between 1 and 3mph.

DRIVER INFORMATION

The Multi-terrain Monitor, fitted to LC5 versions of new Toyota Land Cruiser, works in conjunction with MTS to give the driver a better view of areas immediately around the vehicle that might be hard to see or obscured from the steering wheel. The system uses an array of four external cameras that feed live images to the multi-information screen on the dashboard, when moving forwards or in reverse.

The front camera uses a wide angle lens to give the widest possible forward view. Areas out of sight of the driver, such as immediately in front of the bonnet and to within 50cm of the bumper can be seen using the system.

As well as front and rear-facing cameras, there are cameras mounted on the door mirrors, which can project views from either the front or rear sides. The versatile display mode can show front and side views independently, or in a combined form. The driver can change the mode using the multi-information switch on the steering wheel and the display will indicate which cameras have been selected. When the shift lever is moved to the "R" position, the display automatically switches to the rear view.

The monitor also displays comprehensive information relating to the front view, including the camera range and location of any obstacles detected by the clearance sonar. Steering-linked guidelines are shown, mapping the predicted path of the front tyres to help the driver avoid any hazards ahead. The inner and outer edges of the front tyre paths are show in red (within 0.5m) and yellow (within 1.0m) to indicate the distance from the front of the vehicle.

The side cameras let the driver view an image of the area around the left and right, front or rear tyres simultaneously, regardless of the vehicle's direction of travel.

Additional side camera information provided on the monitor includes the view range, location of obstacles detected by the clearance sonar and the position of the contact areas of the front and rear tyres. Parallel lines indicating the vehicle width are displayed 350mm from the side of the vehicle, and front and rear lines 100mm from the front and rear ends, helping the driver judge distances and accurately position the vehicle, even in the tightest surroundings.

Tyre Angle Display

New Land Cruiser LC5 models are also equipped with a Tyre Angle Display, which compliments the Multi-terrain Monitor's predicted tyre path function. The system can be selected using the multi-information switch when MTS is operating. Guidelines linked to the vehicle's steering angle are projected in real time on to the display. Moving through seven steps, to keep the driver constantly informed about changes in tyre angle between zero and 45 degrees. The Tyre Angle Display is also handy when parking, giving driver's an instant reminder of steering angle and tyre direction.

ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION

For the UK market the new Toyota Land Cruiser is offered with a single powertrain: a 3.0-litre D-4D diesel engine matched to a five-speed sequential automatic transmission.

3.0 D-4D engine

The 2,982cc, 16-valve DOHC common rail unit develops 171bhp at 3,400rpm and 410Nm of torque from 1,600 to 2,800rpm. This enables nought to 62mph acceleration in 11.7 seconds and a top speed of 109mph.

The engine is highly durable and meets Euro 4 emissions standards. Compared to the previous Land Cruiser, CO2 emissions have been reduced from 224 to 214g/km. Fuel consumption is significantly better, too, with the official combined cycle figure improving from 31.4 to 34.9mpg. The use of new high-pressure, fast response fuel injectors has played a key role in achieving cleaner, more fuel-efficient performance.

The engine has two balancer shafts built into the cylinder block to reduce vibration. Driven by the timing gear, these rotate at twice the speed of the crankshaft and in opposite directions.

Under light engine loads, a valve-operated Exhaust Gar Recirculation (EGR) cooler bypass is activated to prevent the temperature inside the combustion chamber from falling to an abnormally low level, enabling optimum EGR operation and maintaining the best possible emissions performance.

Five-speed sequential automatic transmission

The five-speed sequential automatic transmission has a number of features that promote smooth shifts, low noise, strong performance and good fuel efficiency, whether driving on or off-road.

Manual override

The transmission has a sequential manual override function that lets the driver assume greater control and enjoy more involvement through manual shift selection. The system is activated by selecting "S" in the shift gate. The driver can then limit the gear range by selecting the upper limit to which the transmission will operate. The gear selected is shown on the central instrument display.

Flex Lock-up Control

Flex Lock-Up Control increases the operating range of the lock-up clutch by precisely controlling slippage, improving fuel economy. Under acceleration, the distribution of power transmitted between the lock-up clutch (mechanical drive force) and the torque converter (fluid drive force) is adjusted according to driving conditions, dramatically increasing efficiency. Under deceleration, the lock-up clutch operates until the lowest possible vehicle speed is reached, increasing the fuel cut-off range for better fuel economy.

AI-SHIFT Control

The Artificial Intelligence (AI)-SHIFT Control automatically changes the gear shift map according to road conditions and individual driving styles. Road Condition Support Control, an integral part of this system, promotes a more comfortable and responsive drive by avoiding unnecessary up-shifts when driving uphill, and automatically downshifting to automatically gain the benefit of engine braking when travelling downhill.

Eco Driving Indicator

The Eco Driving Indicator helps drivers adopt a more fuel-efficient driving style, with a light on the instrument panel that illuminates when accelerator operation is within its most efficient range. When acceleration moves beyond this zone, the Eco light goes out and the display begins to flash.

INTERIOR FEATURES

While it remains a tough, go-anywhere off-roader, new Toyota Land Cruiser is a first-class on-road vehicle with a high level of refinement, interior quality, comfort and convenience, and practical application of advanced technology.

Design

The new dashboard has a strong horizontal form, interrupted by the prominent vertical console, which contains the audio and air conditioning controls and the TFT multi-information screen.

This configuration ensures drivers keep a clear view of all the key controls and meters when driving over steeply banked terrain. The large air-con and audio control knobs have also been designed to be easy to use in demanding conditions, such as poor light, or when wearing thick gloves

Similarly, the driver's instrument binnacle is designed for maximum clarity at all times. It features large, white-illuminated Optitron speedometer and tachometer dials with turquoise accent rings and a 3D effect for the scale markings.

The dials are separated by a large multi-information display, described in detail in the Convenience section below.

Toyota has made it easier for drivers to find their ideal position at the wheel, adding both reach and rake adjustment to the steering wheel. The driver's seat has six-way manual adjustment on LC3 models and electric eight-way adjustment with power lumbar control and heating on LC4 and LC5 versions; passenger seat adjustment is four-way manual or power, according to grade. The LC5 also provides a seat memory function.

The attention to detail can be witnessed in a soft-touch kneepad on the side of the centre console providing extra comfort for the driver's knee and shin, and a soft urethane pad on top of the centre armrest. Locating the off-road control switch at the base of the centre console makes it easier to use from either front seat.

LC3 models have Yosemite cloth upholstery, with Sequoia (dark grey) or Yukon (beige) leather seats available in high grade models. Interior colour schemes are black over grey, with light grey door pillars and roof lining; or dark brown over ivory, with ivory door pillars and roof lining.

Second row seats

The new second row seating configuration gives more flexibility for arranging the interior to cope with different accommodation and load carrying requirements. The seat bases slide independently through a 135mm range, to gain extra legroom or load space as required. In LC3 models, which do not provide third row seats as standard, the second row seats can be double-folded to free up even more luggage room.

On the passenger side the second row seat has a new walk-in function that is easier to use than the conventional seat-tumble system. A lever positioned on the side of the seat can be operated one-handed to simultaneously fold the seatback forwards and slide the seat base to its maximum forward position, to give generous access to the third row.

Third row seats

Instead of the "occasional use" seats found in some SUVs, the Toyota Land Cruiser provides two proper seats with integral headrests, which can be folded completely flat into the loadspace floor.

The seating position has been made more comfortable by increasing the distance between the hip point and the foot; thanks to the sliding second row seat function, legroom is up to more than double that of the current Land Cruiser, ranging from 489 to 618mm. Passengers up to 180cm tall can be comfortably accommodated on LC4 and LC5 versions.

The left and right-hand seats, complete with headrests, can be lowered or raised independently in a smooth and easy action. A power option is available on LC4 and LC5 models, using controls mounted inside the tailgate and behind the nearside second row seat. This feature also allows the third row seats to be reclined at the touch of a button.

Storage

Improved packaging of the rear seats helps give new Toyota Land Cruiser extra load capacity, compared to the current model in which the third row seats are stowed vertically on each side of the vehicle. With all second row seats in place, there is room for four suitcases to be carried in the rear loadspace; when the third row seats are raised, there is still space for one large and one medium size suitcase. Minimum loadspace width has increased from 810 to 1,110mm, while the length from the tailgate to the back of the second row seats is now a maximum 1,075mm, compared to 1,020mm in the predecessor model.

The loadspace is fitted with a luggage net, tie-down hooks, utility rails (LC4 and LC5), a storage tray and a 3.8-litre storage box. A toolbox is stowed in a purpose-designed compartment in the tailgate.

Storage points are provided all around the cabin. Front seat storage includes a capacious glovebox, overhead sunglasses holder (with built-in conversation mirror), cupholders in three different sizes, larger front door pockets with built-in bottle holders and a small storage compartment equipped with a USB point for connecting and charging digital music players. There is also a large storage box under the centre console armrest, big enough to hold four half-litre bottles (with a coolbox function on LC4 and LC5 models) and fitted with an upper level tray.

Second row passengers are served by seatback pockets, twin cupholders and door pockets with bottle holders. Cupholders are provided for third row occupants, too. Twelve-volt power outlets are provided in the front and second rows, with a 220V AC power outlet in the loadspace.