Toyota has prepared a major update for its flagship Land Cruiser 300 SUV. The 2027 model year version will debut on September 16, with the biggest change being the replacement of the traditional gas V6 with the i-Force Max hybrid powertrain borrowed from the luxury Lexus LX 700h.
The new powertrain consists of a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 paired with an electric motor integrated into a 10-speed automatic transmission. Combined output is 457 horsepower and 790 Nm of torque. Those figures make the hybrid Land Cruiser 300 the most powerful version in the model's history. At the same time, fuel consumption has dropped from 12.6 to 10.6 liters per 100 km.
However, adding the traction battery has brought some trade-offs: fuel tank capacity has decreased from 80 to 68 liters, while curb weight has increased by 160–170 kg. The SUV's off-road capabilities remain unchanged, and its maximum fording depth is 700 mm thanks to the battery compartment's sealed construction.
Initially, the hybrid powertrain will be available only in the Japanese market. It will be offered on the top ZX and GR Sport trims with a seven-seat, three-row interior. The ZX will also get a redesigned front bumper and 20-inch wheels, while the sporty GR Sport will retain its protective body cladding, 18-inch wheels, front and rear differential locks, and signature E-KDSS suspension.
Both versions will be equipped with electric power steering and an updated Toyota Safety Sense driver-assistance suite with Proactive Driving Assist. The 3.3-liter diesel V6 producing 304 horsepower will also remain in the lineup. Toyota has no plans to discontinue it for now.
Vehicles with the diesel engine will get a new entry-level GX trim with a five-seat interior, cloth upholstery, and reduced equipment, making it the most affordable version in the lineup.
Prices for the hybrid versions have increased as expected. The HEV ZX is priced at 9.8 million yen (about $66,000), while the HEV GR Sport costs 10.2 million yen (about $69,000). Both versions are about 2.365 million yen ($16,000) more expensive than the previous gasoline-powered versions.
The new entry-level diesel GX, meanwhile, will be significantly cheaper at 6.4 million yen (about $43,000).