Toyota is poised to redefine the Land Cruiser legacy, potentially abandoning the rugged, body-on-frame construction that has defined the nameplate since 1951. New reports suggest the automaker is developing a pair of Land Cruiser models – an SUV and a pickup – built on a unibody platform, prioritizing on-road comfort and modern drivability over traditional off-road toughness.
A Departure from Tradition
For over seven decades, Land Cruisers have stood as symbols of durability and reliability, known for their robust ladder-frame chassis. This upcoming shift marks a significant departure, suggesting Toyota intends to broaden the Land Cruiser’s appeal beyond hardcore enthusiasts. The move reflects a growing trend in the automotive industry: softening off-road vehicles for mainstream buyers.
The New Models: SUV and Pickup
The upcoming Land Cruiser SUV and pickup are expected to draw heavily from the concepts unveiled at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show – the Land Cruiser Se SUV and the Toyota EPU pickup. The EPU, measuring nearly 200 inches long with an extendable bed, would set these new models apart from Toyota’s existing body-on-frame trucks (Hilux, Tacoma, Tundra, Land Cruiser 70 Series).
Electrification and Flexibility
Both concepts were fully electric, featuring large battery packs and all-wheel drive. Production versions could leverage Toyota’s e-TNGA platform or adopt a different unibody layout capable of supporting hybrid powertrains. This aligns with Toyota’s “multi-pathway” strategy, which acknowledges the need for diverse powertrain options.
Potential US Market Entry
Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of these reports is the possibility of these new Land Cruisers being sold in North America. Toyota has committed to local manufacturing in the US, including a $10 billion investment, making a US-built, electrified Land Cruiser entirely plausible.
A Response to Market Trends
Toyota officials have openly discussed the desire for a more affordable pickup in the US market. An electrified Land Cruiser pickup could directly compete with upcoming Ford EVs (Ranger-sized) or the next-generation Maverick. This suggests Toyota is proactively positioning itself for a broader, more flexible automotive future.
Timeline and Outlook
The new pickup is projected to debut as early as 2027, while the production version of the Land Cruiser Se SUV may arrive in 2026, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of the nameplate. These plans remain unconfirmed, but Toyota’s recent moves suggest a serious commitment to diversifying the Land Cruiser lineup.
In conclusion, Toyota’s potential shift away from traditional body-on-frame construction for the Land Cruiser signals a strategic move to capture a wider audience. By embracing electrification, unibody platforms, and potential US manufacturing, Toyota is preparing the Land Cruiser for a new era of automotive evolution
