| Overall Rating |
 |
| Description |
| Short of buying a Humvee, Land Cruiser represents 4x4 overkill writ large. It's fine if you tow heavy loads or conquer continents, but size, thirst and cost make it inappropriate for most buyers. |
| Handling |
 |
| Comfort |
|
| Quality & Reliability |
 |
| Performance |
|
| Roominess |
 |
| Running Costs |
 |
| Value for Money |
|
| Stereo/Sat Nav |
|
| NCAP |
| Not tested |
| Worst Models |
| 4.7 V8 |
| Replacement |
| 2006 |
|
 |
| Road Test |
| Land Cruiser has a heritage almost as long as Land Rover; it's a stalwart in countries where the going gets really tough. But it's 16 feet long, does little more than 20mpg (that's the diesel; don't ask about the petrol V8), and costs more than nimbler and more prestigious luxury 4x4s. What you get for your money, apart from two and a half tonnes of almost indestructible and reliable car, is presence, go-anywhere ability, lots of equipment and room for up to seven. It works well as troop transporter; in real life, it's more of a compromise. Handling is safe but ponderous, especially in town. Despite the commanding driving position, it's a pain to park; as well as being huge, it has rear blind-spots. Ride isn't at all bad, without the body roll that you might expect. Engines are an unstressed 4.2-litre turbodiesel with over 200bhp or the thirsty 4.7 V8. They accelerate well but drink fuel. |
| Positive Points |
- Acclaimed heavyweight, impressive in size, endurance and ability
- Surprisingly swift considering its size
- Very spacious cabin with eight comfortable seats
|
| Negative Points |
- A handful to drive and park in city streets
- Even the diesel version is thirsty
- It probably won't fit in your garage
|
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