By Khulekani Dumisa

Recently, we spent time with the big daddy of the Toyota SUV line-up, the new Land Cruiser 300. Riding on a new TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform, the new LC300 boasts a bold new design, new petrol and diesel engines and a plethora of new technologies.

The new LC300 bears a box design and a large grille with standard LED headlamps and integrated daytime running lights. The standard features list is generous, to say the least. Favourites are power driver-seat adjustment, built-in navigation (with Tracks 4 Africa support), power fold-down third-row seating, a power-operated tailgate, heated steering wheel, a 14-speaker JBL audio system and seat heating and ventilation for first- and second-row passengers.

V6 Power

The LC300 ditches the old V8 motor for fuel-efficient yet powerful powertrains. Our GR Sport LC300 is powered by 3.3-litre V6 twin-turbodiesel engine making 225kW/700 Nm. This engine is paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission and fuel consumption is a claimed 8.9l/100km.

Living with the LC300

We enjoyed spending time with the new Land Cruiser LC300 as it has been improved in nearly every department – it is quicker, rides better and is more comfortable. The V6 may seem like a step backwards but it is far from it. It offers more power and better fuel economy. We averaged just under 10l/100km in the city. Not bad for a car this large.

The interior is no doubt a step-up. Materials are of great quality, and everything feels supremely good to touch. The execution feels a bit old school but not everything needs to be radical to be charming, we suppose.

Having Toyota Safety Sense is a bonus. Technologies such as blind spot monitor, adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist, to name a few, take the hustle out of the driving experience whilst improving safety. Lane keep can be intrusive due to the size of the car so keep that in mind.

Final word

The new Toyota LC300 may appear large and somewhat intimidating but it does city living effortlessly, with tons of space for 7 occupants.

Pricing

Pricing for the new Toyota Land Cruiser 300 starts at R1,321,700.