HOW'S QUALITY OF 2024 LAND CRUISER? ENGINEER CHECKS OUT SPECIAL VERSION OF 2024 LAND CRUISER

Automotive Engineer David Chao checks out the quality of the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser - plus he goes over some interesting details of the vehicle that you may not be aware of. Also, this is a special version of the Land Cruiser in a sense that there are no accelerator or brake pedals, everything is controlled by the steering wheel called NEO Steering (New Era Steering). Watch the entire video to find out more about the new Land Cruiser 250 series.
Automotive Press is owned and managed by David Koichi Chao, a global expert in the field of automotive evaluation, engineering, and strategy. With over 35 years of engineering experience, David is able to review vehicles from unique perspectives utilizing technical and specialized methods. David is a board member and a director at AJAC (Automobile Journalist Association of Canada).
David is known around the world as an authentic specialist of Lean/Agile Thinking, and travels all around the world to review vehicles and teach latest engineering methods. Born and raised in Japan, David has an engineering degree from University of British Columbia and post-graduate education from MIT and Harvard Business School in Boston.

[@Slaxsvo]

Thank you for this super informative video! I’ve always been mainly concerned with the backseat, so it’s great to see you in it and give your positive feedback.

[@jd2plus2]

That shelf with wipers not recessed is simple genius . It’s fall in Canada ! Hate the leaves and twigs constantly in wiper area.

[@danielrogers4072]

The 200 was designed much like this and the window washer located on this cowl so the hood is easily cleared of snow and keeping the wipers on the heated windshield.

[@KirkKreifels]

The J250 was getting tons of attention at JMS2023! As we found out, it's far more accommodating on the inside vs J70! Just not as cool 😎

[@rollsroycenetwork1221]

Are you still in Japan? Want to see your impression of vehicles like the 300 series, Hilux and fortuner lol.

[@jd2plus2]

@@rollsroycenetwork1221 I just Kirks latest , I think he’s home . Quite the traveller

[@Kiko-wj2id]

The 70 is really, really cool. Wish they would have incorporated more of the 70 lines into the 250, especially the rear split gate.

[@guentherwilke2055]

Toyota could have taken the opportunity to use the J250 body on the J70 frame, especially with the engine already changing to the GD from the Hilux/Prado. Would have made for a nicer 70 and allowed for the same add-ons for NGOs/fleets that use both simple Prados and 76 series cruisers.

[@BelchevKalin]

@@guentherwilke2055 70's frame is different and I think J250/300 frame is much sturdier. its just newer technology as with 70s series frame is not changed only body and engine.

[@StubProductions]

Great video! I liked the relaxed feel of the video! Looking forward to hear about much anticipated 4Runner!

[@Freynightwalker]

Great video, David. We have a GX, and I also like the swing -out door. I will miss that when we buy the Land Cruiser. I am hoping that we may be able to get one in 2025 or early 2026, and I look forward to your video when you get to test drive the Land Cruiser.

[@paulboden7850]

David, love the cutting edge Toyota news from our #1 man in Japan.

[@donalking5460]

I love the design. The old look as tht tough reliable feel. Tht you can drive it anywhere, with it looking modern. Love it.

[@rightlanehog3151]

David, Your enthusiasm is justified as it is clear that this new Land Cruiser will be a smash hit for Toyota.🥳🥳 Did you get a chance to ask the chief engineer about the 2 door ? 🤔

[@Jose-qe2bh]

Definitely hoping there’s a 2 door eventually

[@AutomotivePress]

I didn't because I know that it won't happen - unfortunately...

[@system87music]

Wow! Love the color, retro design and wheels/tires. Future classic in the making!

[@RockMiach]

Would love to see you get a Land Cruiser David!

[@JS-xn3dq]

Thanks for the very informative overview of the Land Cruiser! I can see myself getting this but not sure I want to get it the first year out. I am not sure you can really say much about reliability and quality until you start driving it.

[@andrewwood4013]

Very nice. Great looking ride.

[@AR-up4xe]

Hey David, love watching the you and Kirk working together, great content!! While you're there, can you get the scoop from Lexus on the GX 550 Hybrid and will it be available in the states and what the specs/mileage will be?? Thanks!!

[@lunamaria1048]

Hi David! I have been on a Land Cruiser/GX 550 news blackout, or hiatus, avoiding all of my channels like this, because Toyota goes long lengths of making us wait for news lol. I'm breaking my LC/GX information blackout, today, because the Tokyo auto show AND SEMA, so close together, and I now want to catch up on new news! I look forward to spending a bit of my afternoon combing through the videos and news from the Tokyo show and SEMA, hopefully hearing news about features and aftermarket partnerships! I really hope Toyota/Lexus has a few surprises for me, this year lol I think this LC will do great! Everyone that doubts the use of a 4 cylinder/hybrid will owe Toyota an apology! I'm still buying a GX 550, but that is because I love that twinturbo V6 and want it in a Japanese built Toyota! Thanks!

[@AutomotivePress]

Great to hear from you! It's been a while so I was wondering what you were up to... anyhow please stay in touch and let me know how your dad is and how your move went!

[@lunamaria1048]

@@AutomotivePress You really pay attention lol. Toyota drip feeds news, so I was avoiding videos on the GX until it was about to release and people are reviewing full production models. I just attained my licence to work pharmacy in the US, so things are great! I now live somewhere where things are cheaper, a 6 figure salary is significant and buying a house isn't just a dream, even for low end millionaire lol. I am doing great! I just completed the FPGEC (Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Equivalency Examination), as part of the process to get my license to continue my career, here in the US. My father is doing good! He had some minor health issues, but everything is good, now and getting back to normal!

[@AutomotivePress]

@@lunamaria1048 So good to hear that all is well with you and your family! It's been busy for me lately but great to stay connected. I do have a small gift for your dad/your family - can you contact me via instagram @automotivepress ?

[@stephenisaaks1]

Beautiful work of art, fantastic vehicle by Toyota.

[@weetbix2083]

Work of art in the design department.

[@maryjane-jq1cw]

They probably hired a Chinese designer 😁

[@ibizaloverman7721]

I do live your show David cannot wait for your next

[@garyclark6747]

Like the modern round headlights. 😁 11:43

[@ajayvnaik]

Does the rear window slide down, like in the 4Runner? Thank you

[@je2338]

In Australia we will have all three current Landcruises - 70 series duel cab pickup, 70 series troopy carrier, 70 series wagon, 250 series (called Prado) and 300 series. The 70 series is the only car that survives high mileage travel in the outback working on mines. However, the new V6 turbo will have to prove itself against the outgoing V8 in the 70 series.

[@BMLR1970]

I am moving there 🤣😎🤣

[@jerryavlon4780]

I am looking at Toyota LC and Lexus GX. Leaning toward the hybrid Land Cruiser. There is a local Toyota dealer near me and they are getting tired of me showing up and asking when they'll arrive. Will have to drive a little farther to Lexus dealer. Love GX 550 colors and features too.

[@wavesummit]

How do you open the gas tank door, is it a pull lever lever like the rav4?

[@edwardchassaing5416]

Since you asked, I would definitely choose a Land Cruiser over Lexus or any otner model!

[@chrisragone8785]

How is the body panel flex on the doors and hood? Are they aluminum body panels like all the other Toyotas now or are they steel still like the 300 series Land Cruiser?

[@jimo680]

Fantastic review. Thank you so much for taking the time to evaluate this. Those are incredible looking. I've always preferred the traditional look. Combining that with modern engineering places Japan once again at the forefront of engineering and design in my book.

[@artrusso6455]

David think I like this one better than the Lexus! I love the simplicity!!

[@kurtburkhardt5862]

We are looking to purchase either a Land Cruiser 250 or the new 6th gen 4Runner. Looking forward to learning more about the 4Runner to help with our decision. Currently own a 5th gen 2014 Trail 4Runner so not in a big hurry.

[@Ilovecomedy7]

When is the 6th gen 4Runner coming ?

[@SLHJR0390]

2025/6@@Ilovecomedy7

[@derrickp]

@@Ilovecomedy72028

[@je2338]

Are you in America? I'm in Australia and can assure you, the conventional Landcruiser (300 series) is built to a tough, high quality standard, even when compared to other Toyotas. The 250 series is basically a shortened version of the 300 (with more retro design). We don't have the 4 runner here anymore as it was replaced by the Prado back in the late 90s. However, the Landcruiser is the pinnacle of Toyotas and if cost isn't an issue I cannot see there being any comparison between a 4 runner or any Landcruiser.

[@kurtburkhardt5862]

I am in the US. I currently own a 5th Gen 4Runner 4.0 gas engine 5-speed auto. My mods-3"OME lift, Baja Boss AT 285/70/17's, dual batteries, Redarc controller,12,000lb winch, ICECO fridge 200 watts solar etc. Happy with it for now. I do like the 250 Landcruiser based on what we know so far. The 300 series here was over 100K American. If it is near 60K it could work for me. We haven't heard what the new 4Runner will be yet. Sounds like it will be on the same platform as the LC if so we'll see. Not in a hurry to change...Cheers!

[@robertthompson240]

Thanks for the review David. Do you know whether the GX550 will require premium fuel? What about the LC? Thx

[@AutomotivePress]

Yes GX requires premium but not Land Cruiser - but you can still use regular fuel for the GX (will have reduced power and efficiency)

[@elvinshafiyev8874]

What are the engine options available for European markets?

[@jamesdavidsmith4033]

Excellent audit. The expectation is that it will do 500000 kms with correct maintenance.

[@andrewshenton6541]

Beautiful

[@judithvilla6026]

Would like to know when it will make it's way to Canada!

[@edrickbondoc7387]

Do you think captains seats will be available?

[@JaviChannelTV]

Get the Land Cruiser “Land Cruiser” trim. I love the new square headlights instead of the traditional circular ones. I don’t know if I should wait for this new Land Cruiser to be released here in North America or purchase the Tundra Platinum that I have been wanting for a while now. It’s tough in between choosing the iconic Land Cruiser or true versatility, like that of a Tundra.

[@andrewwood4013]

Does the Landcruiser have upright seating like the FJ Cruiser or is it low and angular like the 4Runner?

[@Expedition_Tranquilo]

When’s the PHEV version coming?

[@mfnazir]

I was talking to a Lexus salesman who had been there for a while. They had a pre-manufacturing model of the new Lexus GX 2024 and he said that compared to the new design the older GX is well-built, especially the 2021-2023 Lexus GX. So I would say you buy the new Landcruiser

[@aeronYTco]

I hope this unique steering wheel makes it to production. I believe it’s not a yoke. What do you call it?

[@joaquinmariano6286]

Excellent vehicle.

[@noctilucent7396]

Please please tailgate options!!!

[@sds6303]

Love it but I wish Toyota would provide a thicker bumper the way the Jeep Wrangler does.

[@joieeioj5976]

im planning to get 4runner limited because of third row seat. but id probably get this one if it has 3rd row seating variant.

[@ImJustWantToComment]

pretty funyy that the most important thing about Landcruiser is the engine yet ive only seen 1 video were the show under the hood.

[@3TQVK]

Is it coming to Australia

[@shuaichen8690]

if possible, get both GX 550 and LC250. A compare and contrast video is coming soon.....

[@thesteammachine1282]

Did they fixed the faster than normal rust issue ? (as this looks quite the good vehicle)

[@SLHJR0390]

man my 2006 4runner rusted out and i had to end its life. it was still running though, ... like a champ. Still have a 100 series LC though too, lol.

[@davewood406]

I respect the effort but I'm not sure you can judge fit and finish by the example at the car show, unless you're Tesla, you're gonna put your best example in the booth plus you're going to go over it with a microscope. That said, I'm rooting for the LC to be solid, what I've seen so far I really like.

[@mannysalamanca24]

Hey David can you do a comparison with the land cruiser 300 and this land cruiser for north American bracket? I would like to know why this one is thousands of dollars cheaper than the original?

[@ligmaballz1]

I have a FJ80 I love and am looking at getting another car and wanted the new Land Cruiser, but can’t find a reason to buy it over the new GX?

[@jimmyamico4713]

Hi David! Excellent video the land cruiser is much more affordable but I don’t think that it has the off-road capabilities in my opinion of a two or a 300 and I am not happy with a four-cylinder hybrid system. People don’t understand how expensive it is to fix a hybrid system And I feel the same with electric vehicles. They’re putting them out way too fast way to ahead of time.. however, it is a beautiful looking vehicle very nice for an every day driver in my opinion….🇯🇵❤️🤍 Respectfully, JimmyUSAF 🇺🇸✈️

[@marcielynn4886]

Still have my 92, runs like a top.

[@UFO_Believer_X]

I love LC, but I wont be geting it only because I dont want to deal with greedy dealers.

[@matthewqtran1318]

The round headlights are so much cooler than the rectangular ones. Very much 70s series.

[@zoekwon]

i really like the design. very retro. i know its not gonna be 55k dealers are going to mark up around 70k

[@theanlong7854]

I prefer this Landcruiser interior design over the new GX

[@kingofthesofas]

same it's more utilitarian and less luxury which is more my jam

[@superbug1977]

"Lexus quality!" I'm sold already. My Nissan Armada is headed for the trade-in bin. Nothing against the Armada. It has been a reliable workhorse. Anyway, I'll take the 2024 Land Cruiser with the round lights--how very classic.

[@imopn]

I definitely prefer the rear swing doors too

[@styledliving]

I wonder if that exposed window wiper design would also fix a flaw in cars for decades, the fresh air intake that allows mice and squirrels to routinely come into the vehicle through the fresh air vent, punch a hole in the air filter, and ruin the inside of a vehicle. Toyota would do well to introduce anti-rodent counter measures inside the vehicle as well.

[@markchevalier3572]

I’m just glad the LC doesn’t look like a bloated rhino anymore 😂😂. They never should have made it a luxury vehicle in the first place.

[@nicholassinovich4257]

I'd love to see you buy the new LC over the GX550

[@cesarquintero_]

10:26 un retroceso en diseño, el limpia brisas trasero debería estar oculto como en la versión de Land Cruiser Prado Version 2023 🫤

[@danielluo6499]

do we know if 4runner will be cheaper or this LC will be cheaper??

[@LivingInAnInverseReality]

Yes, cheaper

[@michaellugo8013]

Should come with dual exhaust like the toyota tacoma trd pro

[@randomichannel]

It will for sure be over €100k here in Finland! No way it's for "everyone". I don't know anyone who could afford a car in that price point.

[@danielluo6499]

do we knwo where the LC will be built??

[@chakaman6361]

Tahara and Hino plants in Japan

[@fahdabdulaziz5067]

Do you think they are bringing the FJ cruiser back?

[@TwoHawksHunting]

The enthusiasts are excited about the new Toyota Land Cruiser. I hope the dealerships don't ruin the potential ownership experience by being greedy. 3:13

[@mini2nut67]

I can just see the $10k - $20k markups here in the USA.

[@traveller924]

Very convincing. Planning to get one in a few years. Exactly what I need. Old model was bloated , overweight, outdated, overpriced.

[@jerryfernandez8881]

How much rummer is the Land Cruiser Vs the 4runner?

[@elizabethwhite4606]

David, so many features of the Land Cruiser are wonderful, however, my choice would be the Lexus GX.

[@AutomotivePress]

Yes I agree!

[@danielmaldonado7680]

how can I put my deposit for the land cruiser! Thanks!

[@bmac9936]

I have been patiently waiting for the new 4Runner but am beginning to have some concerns. The LC is a terrific vehicle with a long and capable list of features but Toyota tries to create differentiation between their models. Even if the 4Runner has the same frame and drivetrain what might they do to it to separate it from the LC? It may be time to drop a deposit on an LC.

[@SLHJR0390]

the 4 runner is going to be bone dry on accessories and trims. thats whats going to happen

[@user-jm5dw3gm8y]

If you want the 1958 trim, you will have to wait a very long time. Making 5000 units of the top line model first. David tells us the Toyota Production System is so flexible … easy to switch trims, colors etc…superior to other car makers. But doesn’t benefit the customer. Why are they only producing 5000 units of only the most expensive trim at launch? Toyota Needs to focus more on the customer.

[@bmac9936]

By the time I can get one it’ll probably be a 2025 model anyway.

[@bmac9936]

By the time I can get one it’ll probably be a 2025 model anyway.

[@bmac9936]

By the time I can get one it’ll probably be a 2025 model anyway.

[@user-jm5dw3gm8y]

Based on current history, definitely yes. Toyota needs to control its dealers more.

[@thomas1942]

Can't wait until some of these get into the hands of regular folks to see how it handles off-road. Wondering if the 4 cylinder will be enough for off-roading.

[@70diezel]

David when are we expecting to see the Land Cruiser in North America?

[@no_name4aday]

Spring

[@jimmy45815]

Did David say the frame size is the same for current generation of Landcruiser? the 250 is 4" more narrow compared to the 300 so is that due to a wide body (7:44)

[@AutomotivePress]

Even if the body is slightly different size (usually due to fender flares), the frame will be the same size

[@johnstumbaugh4941]

My 2024 Lexus 600 was delivered with a a leaking heater core....

[@irfanspace]

Nice review , why Toyota USA not adding cover on the top of the engine thats actually have a purpose to throw the air behind the engine . what about the volume nob , its under the entertainment unit and the one shows for US its on awkward place next to the speedometer , why . why Toyota adding black carpet on every vehicle why , and why not light color beige interior. and why Toyota not adding good lighting insider interior , $50K + too much money .. they need to bring high quality martials . raising prices not cool too , as American manufactures are doing and now they can not sell , used market is full of them , poeple buy them then returned them .

[@3800TURBO]

It kinda looks tight inside compared to the 150 prado.

[@Jojo-ni2cg]

Hello all ,before purchasing one of these 4 cylinder tubos watch the video that the car care nut just put out on turbo engines

[@Rockawaylifestyle]

They should have options for swing door + v6 + kdss

[@ivanguerra3785]

Swing out door works better for surfboards

[@faheemabbas3965]

V6? That’s what the GX is for. Toyota knows what they’re doing…

[@ivanguerra3785]

Agree, swing out doors are more practical for surfboards and other long roof gear

[@Mel-md6cb]

Curious as to why it has such cool capabilities, but a pretty low ground clearance for a vehicle in this segment.

[@dfense434]

Still curious of the longevity of the engine compared to the previous model that was good for 300 to 500k. The angle of the windshield is also concerning. Will it be a rock magnet for highway driving? Wait and see. Beautiful vehicle though

[@barryscott990]

Get the GX!

[@leonardc1303]

So… why is the steering “wheel” screwed up

[@elenka.svaliva2]

Whats happened with the steering wheel?😮

[@dtna]

Those pre production prototypes are worth $$$.

[@daniellewis9240]

4 cylinder lmao 🤣 this is a nostalgic toy 🧸

[@carlosrizo818]

Definitely the Lexus gx 550 with all the Lexus details and v6 instead of 4 cylinder

[@ourtube2693]

Why not a turbo diesel?

[@ronturitto3934]

I'd like to own one by next May. Do you think that's possible?

[@celticsfaninthedesert4778]

They are supposed to start hitting lots here in the US around April so you’ll be in competition with many other’s but you should have a chance by May. My advice would be and I’m going to do with the Tacoma Pro is wait until December or so for the 2025’s to be on the lot.

[@ronturitto3934]

Sounds good, thanks for the info. I have a deposit in so I'll have a good shot@@celticsfaninthedesert4778

[@faheemabbas3965]

@@celticsfaninthedesert4778and the LC250 is going to come with lots of markups sadly. The LC250 is being shipped to basically every nation on earth from the same factory in Japan. Allocations and inventories in the US (and probably Canada too) are going to suckkkk

[@user-jm5dw3gm8y]

No way in hell unless you want the highest trim level. Toyota is first mass producing the first 5000 units in the highest trim model first.

[@no_name4aday]

More time to save a bit of tax 💰 😢

[@willytrouble88]

Being that only half of the land cruiser volume will be out of the Takata plant, I think I’ll stick with the GX.

[@aaronwright7846]

Get the land cruiser 😊

[@jayabernathy]

Likely the only vehicle that will pry my FJ Cruiser from me.

[@mariposalandcompany1202]

Where does spare tire go 🤔

[@MrLuba6a]

that's it!!! Finally, Toyota realized that the way the back door used to be open was for right-wheel driving. Finally!!! it wasn't meant for the European market

[@theodorecriscuolo1010]

I vote Land Cruiser and the round headlights.

[@Lexusgx550]

Is USA model would be like this one ? Not circle ?

[@faheemabbas3965]

There’s two trims for it. The 1958 trim is the one the circular headlights, shown in the video. The trim level above the 1958 (I forgot its name) has rectangular headlights. Both of these trims are coming to the US.

[@BelchevKalin]

Well I told that many times but people continued to cry how this was not a real Land Cruiser and wanted the 300 in US... well now you have it from and engineer's mouth: it IS the same frame and wheel base of the 300! And if you want the same engine too just go GX 550. :)