In a strategic move reminiscent of the expanded Century and Crown model line-ups, Toyota is gearing up to introduce additional variants to its esteemed Land Cruiser range. The current Land Cruiser portfolio boasts three globally recognized SUVs: the flagship LC300, the recently unveiled LC250 (Land Cruiser Prado), and the rugged Land Cruiser 70, which received a significant update a few months ago. Toyota's future plans include the addition of two more models to the Land Cruiser lineup, positioned both above and below the Land Cruiser Prado.
Diversification with Two Land Cruiser EVs
The upcoming Land Cruiser EV line-up is set to feature a two-pronged approach: an affordable, urban-focused derivative and a luxurious range-topping model and this strategic move aims to elevate the Land Cruiser into a brand of its own distinct from its traditional SUV identity. These EV SUVs are positioned to follow the new 'core' Land Cruiser model, identified as the J250 or the Prado. Currently, the Prado is undergoing global market introductions, offering variations with petrol and diesel engines and, depending on the market, incorporating mild hybrid technology.
By flanking this new 'J250' model in marketing terms, the two forthcoming electric SUVs intend to broaden the Land Cruiser's appeal, catering to both more budget-conscious and high-end luxury market segments.
1. Toyota Compact Cruiser: Entry-Level Rugged EV SUV
Presented as a concept and showcasing near-production readiness, the Toyota Compact Cruiser emerges as a robust family SUV designed to encapsulate the enduring spirit of the Land Cruiser but in a smaller, more affordable form and this concept serves as a testament to how the 'Cruiser' moniker seamlessly adapts to an all-electric and ultramodern environment. Targeted specifically at the younger urban demographic with a passion for active outdoor lifestyles, the Compact Cruiser positions itself as a stylish, utilitarian alternative to similarly sized SUVs.
Toyota's strategic vision involves making the Land Cruiser more accessible globally by exploring ways to enhance affordability during the electrification transition. The Compact Cruiser is anticipated to ride on a variation of the E-TNGA platform, potentially delivering up to 217hp and equipped with a 71.4kWh battery, claiming an impressive maximum range of 415km.
2. Toyota Land Cruiser SE EV SUV: Luxurious Offering by 2026
Stepping into the upper echelons of the lineup is the Toyota Land Cruiser SE EV SUV, a distinctly opulent model that stands apart both in terms of technology and aesthetics from the rugged, off-road-focused Land Cruisers of yesteryear. Unveiled initially as a concept at the Tokyo Motor Show, it is part of a broader lineup previewing a comprehensive transformation of Toyota's EV offerings scheduled for the latter half of the decade.
Projected for a potential launch around 2026, aligning with Land Cruiser's 75th anniversary, the Land Cruiser SE represents a substantial and lavish electric SUV. While not aiming for the most extended range figures, it is anticipated to outperform the majority of electric SUVs currently available. Despite its departure in design and focus, Toyota emphasizes the SE's commitment to the core values of the Land Cruiser brand promising highly responsible handling in off-road scenarios. This will be facilitated by the unique high-torque driving characteristics inherent in battery-electric vehicles and its modern monocoque construction, departing from the traditional ladder-frame architecture.