Toyota's New Land Cruiser: Ford Bronco Sport Rival?
The Land Cruiser series, an iconic nameplate in Toyota's lineup, has established an illustrious legacy based on its exceptional endurance, unparalleled off-road capabilities, and extensive presence in various international markets. Presently, Toyota boasts three thriving Land Cruiser models: the robust 300 series, the slightly more compact Prado (set to be succeeded by the 250 series, scheduled for introduction in North America), and the timeless 70 Series. Nevertheless, Toyota's dedication to the Land Cruiser heritage continues with ambitious plans for expansion.
Alongside the anticipated debut of the 7-seater Land Cruiser Se electric concept at the upcoming Japan Mobility 2023 event, Toyota had earlier hinted at the development of a smaller, off-road-focused vehicle, a concept that took shape with the introduction of the Land Cruiser 250 earlier this year. Emerging reports suggest that this new venture might hit the market as early as the culmination of the following year.
The Burning Question: Can This New Vehicle Rival the Ford Bronco Sport?
Numerous details are yet to be clarified, including the nomenclature. Although initial rumors speculated the possibility of naming it the "Land Hopper" after Toyota secured the trademark, it has now been disclosed that this name has been allocated to a three-wheeled electric bike concept. Toyota might consider resurrecting the iconic "FJ Cruiser" label or exploring alternatives like "FC Cruiser." Alternatively, they could opt for the "Compact Cruiser" name, previously associated with the EV concept.
Alternatively, Toyota may choose to stick with alphanumeric designations, potentially labeling the larger model as the Land Cruiser 300 series, the Prado successor as the 250 series, and the compact version as the Land Cruiser 50 or 60, among various other possibilities.
Irrespective of the chosen name, the upcoming model is speculated to draw inspiration from the Land Cruiser's celebrated off-road capabilities while being constructed on a smaller platform, setting the stage for a potential showdown with the Ford Bronco Sport, one of its main rivals.
Exciting Teasers and Speculations About the Design and Powertrain
During the unveiling of the 2024 Land Cruiser 250, Toyota shared a tantalizing teaser image evoking memories of the Compact Cruiser EV concept. Anticipations are rife that the final product will amalgamate design features from both the concept and the recently introduced 2024 Land Cruiser, resulting in a vehicle characterized by a sturdy, boxy build, durable bumpers, and protective body cladding. The inclusion of an externally mounted spare tire secured to the tailgate further echoes the design ethos, closely mirroring the illustrative representation included in this narrative.
Delving into the mechanical heart of the vehicle, Japan's Best Car, citing credible sources, has reported that the model will be available in both internal-combustion-only and hybrid variants. Additionally, there is buzz about a potential introduction of a pure electric version (BEV) at a later stage.
While concrete details about the powertrain remain undisclosed, Toyota possesses a diverse array of engines at its disposal, with potential sources ranging from the Corolla Cross to the larger RAV4 and the Prius, suggesting enhanced power. In the North American market, the latter is furnished with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid gasoline engine generating 194 horsepower, alongside a plug-in hybrid variant producing 220 horsepower, both of which could be feasible contenders. Across the entire range, all-wheel drive (AWD) is expected to come as a standard feature.
According to sources close to Best Car, the forthcoming model is projected to have a width approximately equivalent to the Toyota Corolla Cross, measuring around 71 inches (1,800 mm). However, it will stand taller at 73 inches (1,850 mm), surpassing the Corolla Cross by eight inches (204 mm). In terms of length, it is estimated to measure approximately 177 inches (4,500 mm). In summary, the vehicle's footprint is expected to be in line with that of the Ford Bronco Sport (173" L x 74" W x 70-71" H).
This information suggests that despite its smaller dimensions compared to the Land Cruiser, the upcoming vehicle is poised to deliver genuine off-road performance, capable of conquering various obstacles.
Price Projections and Global Availability
In addition to its more compact stature, the "baby" Land Cruiser is anticipated to arrive with a significantly more accessible price tag compared to the 2024 Land Cruiser, which starts at approximately $55,000 in the United States. Although initial reports indicated a starting price ranging from 3.0-3.8 million yen in Japan (equivalent to $20,000 to $25,000 USD at current exchange rates), it is more realistic to expect an initial price range of $30,000 to $35,000 in the North American market. Naturally, the new compact model is expected to be available worldwide, although the available powertrain options may vary depending on the region.
Excitingly, enthusiasts and potential buyers will have to wait for more comprehensive details about the impending compact addition to the expanding Land Cruiser family. If the reports about Toyota's plans to unveil a production version towards the end of 2024 hold true, there's a strong possibility that a sneak peek at a conceptual version might be in the cards in the months ahead.
