The Toyota Land Cruiser is a legendary SUV that has been produced by the Japanese car manufacturer since 1951. Over the years, the Land Cruiser badge has been slapped on a variety of body styles, and not just your average hard top SUV. There are convertible and station wagon Land Cruisers out there.
As part of the company’s SUV lineup, the Land Cruiser has held a special place as one of Toyota’s most reliable and well-received vehicles. With its rugged design, durable construction, and comfortable interior, it is no surprise that the Land Cruiser has become a favorite amongst off-roading enthusiasts and those looking for an off-road vehicle with plenty of power.
While the marquee has been known to be exceptionally reliable, some model years are better than others. Check out our picks for the best year Land Cruiser from Toyota.
1990 to 1997 Model Year Toyota Land Cruiser (80 Series)
Land Cruisers from the 1990 to 1997 model years remain some of the most popular and sought-after entries in the entire lineup. This is due to its reliable construction, rugged design, solid front axle, and impressive off-road ability.
From 1990 to 1997, the Land Cruiser enjoyed a lot of firsts for the vehicle, such as newer engines, anti-lock brakes, dual airbags, automatic cruise control, and more.
The trim level that was available for these model years was a four-door sport utility. Engine options included a 4.0L and 4.5L gasoline engines and 4.2L diesel (which can come either naturally-aspirated or turbocharged), while the transmission options were either a five or four-speed automatic or manual. Land Cruisers for the North American market got the 4.5L gasoline engine that produced 212 hp with maximum torque reaching up to 275 lb-ft.
These factors proved to be enough to make them excellent off-road vehicles, and with their reliable construction, long-lasting durability, and rugged design, they remain some of the best Land Cruisers ever made.
When it comes to pricing, the market value of a used Toyota Land Cruiser from 1990 to 1997 depends on the condition and number of miles they have been driven. Generally speaking, you can expect prices ranging from $1,000 to $7,000.
Even though they are dated at this point, these Land Cruisers are still a good option for budget-conscious buyers looking for a reliable and dependable off-roader.
1999 to 2007 Model Year Toyota Land Cruiser (100 Series)
Finally, the Land Cruisers produced between 1999 and 2007 make up the 100 series, which is widely considered to be the best of the bunch. Known for its reliability and robust design, these model years saw some impressive features, as well, such as a four-wheel-drive system, anti-lock brakes, airbags, automatic climate control, independent front suspension, and more.
The trim level available for these model years was the four-door sport utility. The engine option included a 4.7-liter V8, while the transmission options were either a five or four-speed automatic or manual. The horsepower and torque figures were 235 HP and 320 lb-ft, respectively.
If you’re in the market for a used Land Cruiser from these model years, you can expect to pay between $5,000 and $30,000. Prices will depend on the condition and number of miles driven.
Overall, the Land Cruisers manufactured between 1999 and 2007 are considered to be the best in terms of reliability, design, features, and value for money. With its robust construction, powerful engine and clever features, any of these model years should prove to be an excellent choice for any off-roading enthusiast.
2008 to 2021 Model Year Toyota Land Cruiser (200 and 300 Series)
Toyota Land Cruisers produced between 2008 and 2020 make up the 200 series while the 2021 model is the sole representative of the 300 series. These model years are among the best thanks to high reliability ratings from consumer reports and industry reviews, attractive yet rugged design, and features like traction control, heated seats, stability control, locking rear differential, and plenty of safety features.
Trims that were available for these model years include the GX, GXL, and VX. The engine option was a 4.6-liter V8, with options for either a six- or five-speed automatic transmission. HP and torque figures reached up to 381 hp, with maximum torque reaching up to 401 lb-ft.
These later models boast a range of modern features, including a powerful 5.7-liter V8 engine, active safety technology, and an Off-Road package for enhanced performance in all terrains.
The market price of used 2008-2021 Land Cruisers depends on their condition and mileage, but you can expect to pay between $20,000 and $90,000.
The latter price range is admittedly steep, but Land Cruisers are highly sought after and worth the investment due to their dependability, great features, and go-anywhere capability. If you’re in the market for a used 200 Series Land Cruiser, there are plenty of examples available to choose from.
Land Cruisers from this timeframe are some of the most dependable and powerful vehicles in the Toyota lineup. So if you’re thinking about investing in a reliable SUV, the Land Cruiser from these model years is definitely worth considering.
Which Land Cruiser Is Right for You?
When it comes to choosing the right Land Cruiser, there are several factors to consider. The year of manufacture will determine what features and specifications may or may not be available. Additionally, you’ll also need to factor in your budget as well as the intended purpose of the vehicle.
We do gravitate towards the 80 Series Toyota Land Cruisers. They come from an era where electronics play a relatively smaller role over mechanics, making them easier and cheaper to modify and maintain. Modern vehicles with complex electronics and systems tend to suffer from unnecessary faults.
Although Toyota officially discontinued the Land Cruiser in 2021, the badge enjoys recognition globally. It continues to be sold in many markets outside the US and is even considered a luxury SUV.
No matter which year you choose, the Land Cruiser is sure to exceed your expectations when it comes to off-road performance and comfort. With its legendary reliability, luxurious interior materials, and powerful engine, the Best Year Land Cruiser from Toyota is sure to get you where you want to go.
