A U.S. look at the two trims, new 2027 features, hybrid performance, off-road equipment, towing, fuel economy, and everyday practicality
The Toyota Land Cruiser 2027 returns with small but useful upgrades rather than a redesign. Toyota adds an available high-mounted air intake, heated and ventilated second-row outboard seats through the Premium Package, and a new black exterior color called Inked. The 326-hp hybrid powertrain, full-time four-wheel drive, body-on-frame construction, and two-trim lineup continue.
The current Car and Driver Land Cruiser review gives the SUV a 9.5 out of 10 rating, praising its strong hybrid torque, manageable size, and ability to work well on pavement and dirt. Its main tradeoffs are a high price, no third row, and fuel economy that is only moderate for a hybrid.
Key Takeaways
| • Toyota offers two grades: Land Cruiser 1958 and Land Cruiser.
• Toyota lists base MSRPs of $58,080 for the 1958 and $64,155 for the Land Cruiser trim, while Car and Driver shows $59,675 to $65,750 after destination. • Every model uses a turbocharged 2.4-liter i-FORCE MAX hybrid with 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. • Full-time four-wheel drive, low-range gearing, locking center and rear differentials, Crawl Control, and a 6,000-pound tow rating are standard. • The 2027 upgrades are useful but limited, so discounted 2026 inventory may offer nearly the same vehicle for less money. • The Land Cruiser is a five-seat SUV. Buyers needing three rows should compare the Toyota Sequoia or a larger crossover. |
What Changed for the 2027 Land Cruiser?
Toyota has kept the model-year changes focused. The available high-mounted air intake moves the air inlet higher along the passenger-side A-pillar, which can help reduce exposure to dust on trails. It should not be treated as permission to drive through water without checking the vehicle’s official limits and safe water-crossing practices.
The Premium Package now includes heated and ventilated outboard seats in the second row, giving rear passengers a comfort feature that was previously missing. Inked joins the paint palette as a deep black finish, while heritage-inspired colors such as Trail Dust and Heritage Blue remain available with a contrasting Grayscape roof.
Toyota confirmed the 2027 changes in its official Land Cruiser announcement, along with the continuing 326-hp hybrid system, 23-mpg combined rating, full-time four-wheel drive, and 6,000-pound towing capacity.
| 2027 Update | Availability | Why It Matters |
| High-mounted air intake | Available | Adds trail-focused function and a more expedition-ready appearance |
| Heated and ventilated rear outboard seats | Premium Package | Improves comfort for second-row passengers |
| Inked exterior paint | New color | Adds a darker, more formal appearance |
| Mechanical redesign | No | Powertrain, frame, drivetrain, and two-trim structure continue |
How Much Does the 2027 Toyota Land Cruiser Cost?
Toyota’s consumer website lists the Land Cruiser 1958 at $58,080 and the Land Cruiser trim at $64,155 before the $1,595 delivery, processing, and handling fee. Car and Driver therefore shows a retail range of $59,675 to $65,750. Taxes, registration, documentation fees, accessories, protection products, and dealer pricing are additional.
| Trim | Base MSRP | Price With Destination | Best Fit |
| Land Cruiser 1958 | $58,080 | $59,675 | Buyers wanting heritage style and the core off-road hardware |
| Land Cruiser | $64,155 | $65,750 | Drivers wanting better technology, comfort, and trail equipment |
The higher trim is the better value for many shoppers because it adds a 12.3-inch touchscreen, ventilated front seats, power-adjustable seating, SofTex upholstery, wider all-terrain tires, a power liftgate, roof rails, Multi-Terrain Select, an electronically disconnecting front stabilizer bar, and color-selectable Rigid Industries fog lights.
The 1958 remains appealing for buyers who prefer round headlamps, fabric seating, and a simpler cabin. It does not lose the essential drivetrain equipment, so it is not a decorative base model with reduced four-wheel-drive capability.
Is the Premium Package Worth Adding?
The Premium Package is designed for buyers who want the Land Cruiser to feel closer to a luxury SUV. It adds leather-trimmed front seats, a 14-speaker JBL audio system, a head-up display, a digital rearview mirror, a power moonroof, Digital Key, lane-change assistance, front cross-traffic alert, traffic-jam assistance, and the new heated and ventilated second-row outboard seats.
The package suits long-distance family use and buyers cross-shopping a Lexus GX. A console cool box and moonroof may also be available separately.
What Powertrain Does the Land Cruiser Use?
Every 2027 Land Cruiser uses Toyota’s i-FORCE MAX system. A turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder is paired with an electric motor inside the transmission housing. Combined output is 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque, sent through an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The electric motor’s greatest contribution is low-speed torque rather than silent electric commuting. This is not a plug-in hybrid, and the battery is not designed for meaningful electric-only range. The driver fills the fuel tank normally while regenerative braking and the gasoline engine manage the battery.
| Specification | 2027 Land Cruiser |
| Powertrain | 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid |
| Output | 326 hp and 465 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Full-time 4WD with 2-speed transfer case |
| EPA fuel economy | 22 city / 25 highway / 23 combined mpg |
| Car and Driver 0 to 60 mph | 7.7 seconds |
| Maximum towing | 6,000 pounds |
| Seating | Five |
Is It Still a Real Land Cruiser Off-Road?
Yes, although the American-market model is smaller and more affordable than the previous V-8 Land Cruiser. It rides on Toyota’s TNGA-F truck platform with a fully boxed frame and double-wishbone front suspension. Full-time four-wheel drive and an electronically controlled two-speed transfer case are standard.
Both trims include locking center and rear differentials, Crawl Control, Downhill Assist Control, and an automatic limited-slip differential. The upper trim adds Multi-Terrain Select and the Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism, which increases front suspension articulation on uneven terrain.
The available Multi-Terrain Monitor uses exterior cameras to show areas close to the vehicle that may be hidden from the driver. This can help with rocks, ruts, and tight trail placement, but it does not replace a spotter when the terrain is difficult.
| Capability Feature | 1958 | Land Cruiser |
| Full-time 4WD and low range | Standard | Standard |
| Center and rear locking differentials | Standard | Standard |
| Crawl Control | Standard | Standard |
| Multi-Terrain Select | Not included | Standard |
| Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism | Not included | Standard |
| Multi-Terrain Monitor | Not included | Available |
How Good Is the Land Cruiser on the Highway?
The current generation is easier to drive daily than the large Land Cruisers sold previously in the United States. Its narrower body and shorter length make parking and urban traffic less intimidating, while the suspension delivers a smoother and quieter ride than purpose-built off-road rivals such as the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco.
A 7.7-second run to 60 mph is adequate but not quick for this price range. The hybrid delivers strong low-speed pull, yet the four-cylinder can sound busy. Buyers wanting effortless V-6 power should compare the Lexus GX 550.
Does the Hybrid Deliver Good Fuel Economy?
The EPA rating is 22 mpg city, 25 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. That is better than the previous V-8 Land Cruiser and many traditional off-road SUVs, but it is not exceptional for a modern hybrid. The Land Cruiser is heavy, shaped like a box, and fitted with a full-time four-wheel-drive system, so its hybrid hardware is used mainly to deliver torque and acceptable efficiency.
Car and Driver recorded 21 mpg during its 75-mph highway test. Roof accessories, all-terrain tires, towing, and high speeds can reduce real-world economy.
Official fuel-economy ratings can be checked through the U.S. Department of Energy fuel-economy database by searching for the exact model year and vehicle configuration.
How Practical Is the Interior?
The Land Cruiser is a five-seater with good headroom and a spacious second row. The rear seat folds for cargo, although the hybrid battery creates a raised floor that is not perfectly flat.
Car and Driver fit 17 carry-on suitcases behind the second row and 31 with the rear seat folded. The 2,400-watt inverter is useful for camping equipment, power tools, laptops, small appliances, and emergency backup needs within the system’s limits.
The 1958 uses an 8-inch touchscreen and six-speaker audio. The upper trim receives a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a 10-speaker system, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on both models.
How Does It Compare With the 4Runner and Lexus GX?
| Model | Main Strength | Main Tradeoff |
| Toyota Land Cruiser | Balanced comfort, heritage, standard hybrid torque, and full-time 4WD | Expensive for a five-seat Toyota and only moderately efficient |
| Toyota 4Runner | Wider trim range and lower entry price | More choices make configuration complicated and some trims are less refined |
| Lexus GX 550 | V-6 power, luxury materials, and stronger acceleration | Higher price and lower fuel economy |
| Ford Bronco | Open-air design and extensive trail customization | Noisier and less refined on long highway drives |
| Jeep Wrangler | Iconic removable-body experience and extreme off-road options | Less comfortable and practical for daily use |
Should You Buy a 2027 Model or Look for a 2026?
| Choose the 2027 If You… | Choose a 2026 If You… |
| Want the Inked exterior color | Find a meaningful dealer discount |
| Need heated and ventilated second-row outboard seats | Do not need the new Premium Package feature |
| Want the available high-mounted air intake | Prefer the same core drivetrain for less money |
| Value the newest model year for resale | Can find the exact color and equipment immediately |
Because the mechanical package is unchanged, the decision should be based on pricing and equipment rather than fear of missing a major upgrade. A discounted 2026 Land Cruiser with the correct trim may be a better financial choice than paying more for a 2027 with features the buyer will not use.
What Should You Check Before Buying?
- Compare the Toyota base MSRP with the full price after destination and dealer fees.
- Confirm whether the vehicle is a 1958 or the higher Land Cruiser trim.
- Review the window sticker for the Premium Package, moonroof, cool box, paint, wheels, and accessories.
- Check whether the high-mounted air intake is factory-installed or dealer-added.
- Get an insurance quote and price replacement all-terrain tires before purchase.
- Verify the payload label and towing equipment for the exact vehicle.
- Request the complete out-the-door price in writing before leaving a deposit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the 2027 Toyota Land Cruiser?
Toyota lists base MSRPs of $58,080 for the Land Cruiser 1958 and $64,155 for the Land Cruiser trim. With the $1,595 destination charge, the prices are $59,675 and $65,750 before other costs.
What is new for the 2027 Land Cruiser?
Toyota adds an available high-mounted air intake, heated and ventilated second-row outboard seats through the Premium Package, and a new Inked exterior color.
Does the Land Cruiser have a V-6 or V-8?
No. Every U.S. model uses a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid rated at 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft.
Does it have a third row?
No. The 2027 Land Cruiser is a five-seat, two-row SUV.
How much can it tow?
The maximum rating is 6,000 pounds when properly equipped. Payload, passengers, cargo, and tongue weight must also be considered.
Is the Land Cruiser a plug-in hybrid?
No. It is a conventional performance hybrid that does not require external charging.
Which trim is the better value?
The upper Land Cruiser trim is the stronger all-around value for buyers who want comfort, technology, and the full off-road feature set. The 1958 appeals to buyers prioritizing heritage styling and a lower price.
The Bottom Line
The 2027 Toyota Land Cruiser remains a modern interpretation of a legendary off-roader. It is smaller, more efficient, and easier to live with than the old V-8 model while retaining a boxed frame, low-range four-wheel drive, locking differentials, and serious trail equipment.
The new high-mounted intake, rear-seat climate comfort, and Inked paint improve the package without changing its character. The higher Land Cruiser trim is the best choice for most buyers, but a discounted 2026 model may deliver nearly the same ownership experience for less money.