First Look: All-New Land Cruiser 2022
The much-awaited arrival of the Toyota Land Cruiser 2022 in the UAE is even more exciting and happening than anticipated. As the UAE celebrates 2021 as ‘The Year 50’, Al-Futtaim Toyota surprises its first 50 recipients of the new Land Cruiser with a special reception at their showroom in Dubai Festival City.
These lucky customers were invited to take the new SUV for a spin at a midnight drive event on June 20, 2021. The guests were greeted with a water salute and fireworks organised by Dubai’s Civil Defence and Dubai Police. The all-new Land Cruiser is also the newest addition to the steller Dubai Police fleet.
All-New Toyota Land Cruiser
Toyota Land Cruiser 300 series has received multiple upgrades as a part of its 70th Anniversary redesign. It comes with an extensive range of tech features and a powerful V-6 engine. The luxury SUV is longer and taller than the previous model – and despite the lighter weight, a definite powerhouse when it comes to towing capabilities.
Although the looks remain true to the Land Cruiser’s origin, the bulging new grille design with black trim from one headlight to another is a welcome addition. Even the sides look tougher and bolder with the deeper side skirts.
Comparing to the previous generation, the LC300 is definitely an upgrade both inside and out.
Variants in the UAE
Toyota Land Cruiser 2022 is available in three different variants depending on two different engine sizes 3.5L V-6 Twin Turbo and 4.0L V-6.
- EXR
- GXR
- VXR
The base trim EXR offers basic functionalities and the higher-end VXR offers additional features such as lane assist, adaptive high beams, chrome details and kick sensors.
Toyota Land Cruiser 300 GR Sport trim: The ‘Gazoo Racing’ LC-300 is also expected to arrive in the UAE later this year. This exclusive version features alloy rims, mesh grille, unpainted black bumper and a few other visual upgrades that make it look more like a serious off-roader than a luxury SUV.
2022 Land Cruiser Price
- Toyota Land Cruiser 2022 4.0L: AED 229,900
- Toyota Land Cruiser 2022 3.5L Twin Turbo: AED 297,900
Cockpit Experience
The new LC-300 seems and feels much luxurious when compared to the previous generations. Thanks to the added inches, the cabin is spacious and feels almost as comfortable as the LX series. The sound insulation has been improved and road noise is barely evident. The A-pillar has been moved forward providing better visibility. Visibility has improved on the whole.
The Toyota Multi-Operational Touch (TMOT) infotainment system features a 12.3-inch display, which looks like a tablet with various control functions including navigation, air conditioning, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Lag is minimal when swapping between apps. Buttons have a matte finish that prevents visible fingerprints. Moreover, there is a customizable HUD.
The ventilated seats (GXR & VXR) can be configured to maximise room for storage. The third row can be electrically controlled to fold down and make more room for luggage. The sunroof, however, is still manual.
Astounding Tech Features
The array tech and assist features will leave the user in a state of awe. Although many of the features are returning from the previous models, it would be an injustice to Land Cruiser 2022 for not highlighting the tech.
- Multi-Terrain Monitor – Uses four mounted cameras on the front, rear and sides to extend the ground view so users can detect unseen obstacles on the off-road trails.
- Multi-Terrain Select with AUTO mode – Offers 5 modes: Rock, Mud, Sand, Dirt and Deep Snow to optimise the driving experience on tough terrains.
- Adaptive Variable Suspension System (AVS) – The suspension system can adjust height automatically to match the terrain.
- Crawl Control – Designed for extreme terrains with 5 speed modes, the system manages throttle and brake control to mitigate the loss of traction.
- Turn Assist Function – Works with crawl assist to enhance the vehicle’s cornering performance.
Safer Driving Experience
The vehicle is packed with standard safety picks like brake assist, airbags, emergency call system and backup camera. The Toyota Safety Sense Package adds in some advanced features for the upper variants.
While the base variant comes with the basic cruise control, the advanced package boasts advanced features like parking support brakes, pre-collision system (PCS), blind-spot monitor and lane departure alert.
Engine Specs
The all-new 2022 Land Cruiser models are available in two engine sizes:
- 3.5L V-6 Twin Turbo – 409 hp and 650 nm
- 4.0 L V-6 – 271 hp and 385 nm
The twin-turbo engine is a direct upgrade to the 5.7L V-8 engine standing at 362 hp. Turbo lag is minimal and kicks in at less than 1,500 RPM. Overall, the performance of this engine commendable. When paired with the 10-speed auto transmission, the V-8 delivers a smoother riding experience regardless of the terrain.
On the other hand, the 4.0L V-6 is basically adapted from the previous Land Cruiser 2021, offering a slightly budget-friendly option.
Performance
With the new 10-speed gearbox, shifts are hardly noticeable. Manual shifting modes are available. However, when switching from auto to manual in 10th gear, it goes down to 8th.
The electronically controlled adaptive suspension system is one of the major and noticeable improvement. It isn’t stiff on road and the car feels stable on the tarmac. Steering this powerful machine feels quite light and acceleration is smooth. However, body roll is still present even at low speeds.
As for efficiency, shedding 200 kgs definitely makes a difference, but it is too early for an accurate figure.
Al-Futtaim Toyota reaches out with an open invitation to book your new Land Cruiser available in nine distinct colours. You can also explore listings for used Land Cruiser for sale in the UAE to find some great deals on Land Cruiser 2021 and older models.
Also, check out Land Cruiser GR Sport model to find out about the other variant of the iconic model.
Stay tuned to the UAE’s leading auto blogs for more on the latest car launches, market trends and automotive innovation.