Toyota Land Cruiser 200

Overview

There are some things that deserve a place in the hall of fame. Things like the American burger, Saville row suits, James Bond movies and of course the Toyota Land Cruiser 200. It has been around from time immemorial and not only are the armies from various countries proud of it but also the well-heeled folks like to flaunt it. Despite advanced competition from Europe as well as America, the Japanese LC 200 has always been a favourite. Earlier this year, it got a facelift and tata too a proper one. The new Toyota Land Cruiser 200 is available in four colors -  Pearl White Crystal Shine, Silver Metallic, Attitude Black Mica, and Grey Metallic. 

Interior & Features

One has to climb into the cabin of the Land Cruiser 200. It has climbing handles placed on all the doors conveniently. The interior is modern in a few bits but harks back to the old school design. There is leather all around and quality definitely seems upmarket than before. The front seats are powered but they shift in a laborious fashion. Depending on the country of purchase, the seats, as well as the steering wheel, get heating function. Our country has a tropical climate and hence there is no requirement for it. The meters look simple but deliver all the vital information one will need. The 8.0-inch touchscreen unit feels outdated and doesn’t come with Android or Apple support. Toyota also navigation and a compass.

The LC200 is huge. The wheelbase of 2,850 mm is proof of that.  It can seat eight in comfort. Even the last row of seats are decently comfortable. There are also AC vents to keep the occupants comfortable. There is dual zone climate control too.

Exterior

Truth be told, while they say the Toyota Land Cruiser 200 has a timeless design, it doesn’t. The form while being instantly recognisable wasn’t working out in today’s time. So, Toyota retained the silhouette but altered the face. The bold grille now looks similar to the one in the Ford Ranger. There is a lot of chrome that even extends to the headlights. Speaking of which, the headlamps now have LED projectors in them. The lower half of the bumper also gets chrome protrusions. Compared to the previous version, the 2018 Land Cruiser has its fog lights placed slightly higher. Move on to the sides and you will notice the rather functional alloys which have been soldiering on for donkey years. A couple of unnecessary graphics make their way here. At the back, the lights are huge and the SUV feels as if it is squatting. The exhaust pipe is invisible but the tow hook is exposed.

If you look at the dimensions, the LC 200 measures 5,170 x 1,980 x 1,945 mm for the length, width, and height.

Ride & Handling

In case, you were wondering, this is the patrol car for the Dubai police. They use it in the sand dunes and many other places. The suspension comprises of MacPherson struts in the front and a leaf spring at the rear. This set up ensures a rugged feel as well as highly stable nature closer to the SUV’s top speed. The 18-inch wheels will smother everything in their path. Even with eight people on board, the suspension handles everything in its stride. The steering though is truck-like and could be a tad light for city use. Hauling such a big vehicle to a stop also requires the best of brakes. The 18-inch rotors do a good job of stopping this mammoth SUV on time.

Engine & Fuel Consumption

The 2018 Land Cruiser 200 is powered by a 4.5-litre turbodiesel mill. This V8 engine is an old school engineered unit and makes 232 PS of power and 615 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission and sends power to the rear wheels. There is also 4x4 on offer. Toyota has updated the motor to Euro IV standards but we aren’t sure if this engine will be able to meet the next round of compliant norms. Around town, the LC 200 delivers a mileage of 4 kmpl while out on the open road, the number doubles. The fuel tank capacity is 93 litres.

Braking & Safety

None of the modern gadgetry makes its way to the new Toyota Land Cruiser 200. There are seven airbags though, ABS with EBD, traction control as well as ESP, and Hill Hold/Descent Assist. You will not find even a rear parking camera as part of the standard fare. There are sensors in the front and back though. We believe in the next generation LC 200, Toyota will bring in more safety equipment like Blind Spot Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and more.

Verdict

Big things come with a significant price tag. The Toyota Land Cruiser 200 price starts from AED 4,740,000 and changes according to the colour chosen. This means there is only a single trim on offer. The Toyota LC 200 specifications are impressive but it doesn’t have the best of features. We wish Toyota hadn’t skimped on some creature comforts. Nonetheless, even in this age, the Land Cruiser is capable of whooping many a luxury SUV’s arses. It makes sense to flaunt it too. A proper and dependable off-roader as well as one with decent manners on-road.