In the exclusive realm of luxury SUVs, the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 commands attention with a legacy deeply rooted in reliability and capability. Launched in India at a price of ₹2.31 crore, its debut was marked by a considerable waiting period exceeding a year, affirming its esteemed status in the market.
The design of the LC 300 reflects its powerful presence, built on the robust TNGA-F platform. The ZX variant measures 4985 mm in length, 1980 mm in width, and 1980 mm in height, featuring a wheelbase of 2850 mm and a commanding ground clearance of 240 mm. Its aggressive stance is complemented by a wide three-slat grille and full-LED headlamps, accentuated by LED daytime running lights that align with the top of the grille and central Toyota emblem. The 20-inch alloy wheels enhance its planted profile, while the rear showcases distinctive vertically-stacked tail-lamps.
Upon entering the cabin, occupants experience a serene environment. Initial impressions reveal a premium feel, with practical design elements evident in the dashboard, which features numerous physical buttons and knobs for essential functions. A sizable 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, catering to modern user preferences. With generous interior space, the LC 300 provides ample shoulder room and a boot capacity of 1131 litres in its standard five-seater configuration.
Under the hood, the India-spec model is equipped with a 3.3-litre V6 twin-turbodiesel engine that produces 304 bhp and 71.38 kgm of torque. This traditional powertrain is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering power to all four wheels. The driving experience is noted for its smoothness and confidence; the V6 diesel engine accelerates efficiently from low revs, while the transmission transitions seamlessly through gears. The steering provides a light touch at lower speeds, contributing to its manageable urban handling, while offering confident feedback on highways.
To fully appreciate the Land Cruiser’s capabilities, one must venture off-road. During testing, the LC 300 demonstrated remarkable off-road performance, easily navigating muddy tracks and water-filled gullies without laborious effort. The suspension absorbed bumps effortlessly, maintaining cabin stability throughout the journey.
Equipped with a 110-litre fuel tank and ample ground clearance, the LC 300 excels as a long-distance travel vehicle. Highway efficiency figures approached 15 kpl, an impressive metric for an SUV of its size and weight.
The engineering of this body-on-frame vehicle reveals its strengths on paved roads as well. It employs a front double-wishbone and a multi-link rear live axle, effectively absorbing potholes and rough surfaces while minimizing body roll around corners. Cabin noise from road and wind remains successfully isolated, contributing to a tranquil ride.
In summary, the new-generation Toyota Land Cruiser 300 continues to uphold the brand’s legacy of durability and prowess, integrating modern technology while preserving the core attributes that have historically distinguished it from competitors. The price point may elicit some scrutiny, but when balanced against its heritage, capabilities, and exceptional features, it is deemed justifiable.
© Motoring World
Published on October 3, 2025
