Is the LC300 too luxurious to be a true off roader?
Over the years the Land Cruiser has morphed from a bare bones utilitarian to a premium SUV. Established by Series 50 above, this trend continues with the 300 series, sporting more luxurious features for a higher price. The evolution of the Land Cruiser has divided opinion about it staying true to its off road roots. Nevertheless, some say they add to the vehicle’s off road performance and durability, while others note that they make the vehicle heavier and more complex. But others argue that the vehicle has managed to bridge the gap between the desirable and the usable; effective at both keeping its occupants comfortable and capable. It also discusses how Land Cruiser buyers are changing demographically and what impact the vehicle is having on off–road serious types of buyers versus whether it's becoming more urban and luxurified.
It's still a beast off-road. But Toyota hasn't cut anything that mattered, including ground clearance, approach angles, or low range gearing. It’s just more comfortable when you’re not rock crawling – but I wouldn’t trade it for a 4 Runner or a Cherokee.
It's become too soft. Even with all those luxury features, it’s all that extra weight that hurts performance – especially on the low profile tires of the 'luxury' versions.
It’s, I think, the perfect balance. It’s still remarkably capable off road, but you can actually have fun driving it to work everyday as well. Why shouldn't we have both?
99% of the people will never need as much capability as LC300 can offer. It may not be the most comfortable vehicle, but if it can handle tough terrain it doesn't mean it isn't comfortable. In fact, the new tech makes it even better off road.
It's definitely more luxurious, and in the market that's what people want. At least Toyota has stuck to the core off-road DNA, at least in part, something that's lacking with some other manufacturers' design evolution of SUV.
I fear that the luxury focus will ultimately dilute the off road capabilities. It’s good now, but will the next generation be tracking over comfort, and if so, for how long?
With the correct setup, it's a real off the road vehicle. Don't bother with the 22-inch wheels and throw on the appropriate all terrains, and you suddenly have a luxury vehicle that can go anywhere. A good compromise in my opinion. A best of both worlds.
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Discussions and Questions Is The Lc300 Too Luxurious To Be A True Off Roader
Is the LC300 too luxurious to be a true off roader?
31 December 2024 06:27
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