New exterior and interior design features are the obvious changes made to the 2016 Toyota Land Cruiser, while new safety technology, a major drivetrain upgrade and enhanced multimedia features go more in depth.
The Land Cruiser body is new from the A-pillar forward. It’s a whole new look for this iconic vehicle, with the bumper, grille, projector-beam LED low and high beam headlights, headlight cleaners and integrated Land Cruiser logo, all contributing to the new design signature. The hood’s distinctive power bulges convey the potential of the 381-horsepower V8 that lies beneath. Teamed to that power plant for 2016 is the Toyota brand’s first 8-speed automatic transmission, which helps enhance acceleration.
The Land Cruiser shows a new signature from behind, as well, thanks to new taillights with light-tube design and LED brake lights, a new full-width chrome molding and a new bumper. A chrome body side molding embossed with the Land Cruiser logo and new-design 18-inch alloy wheels accentuate the Land Cruiser’s muscular profile.
The 381 horsepower 5.7-liter DOHC V8 engine features Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) and produces 401 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,600 rpm. Equally critical is that the engine produces 90-percent of peak torque at just 2,200 rpm, giving Land Cruiser a powerful response. For 2016, a new 8-speed automatic transmission replaces the 6-speed unit, with the added ratios allowing a wider ratio spread to help enhance acceleration and fuel efficiency.