The Toyota LandCruiser has long been a household name in Australia. From the dusty red tracks of the Outback to city suburbs, the LandCruiser has proven itself to be more than just an SUV—it’s an institution. With the 2025 Toyota LandCruiser 300, Toyota aims to carry forward its legacy of unmatched off-road capability while injecting the kind of modern luxury, safety, and technology that today’s SUV buyers demand.
This review dives deep into the 2025 LandCruiser 300, exploring its design, engine options, driving dynamics, off-road prowess, interior refinements, technology suite, and how it stands up to competitors.
A Heritage of Strength
Since its introduction more than 70 years ago, the Toyota LandCruiser has been synonymous with durability, reliability, and adventure. Australians have embraced it as the go-to vehicle for long-haul touring, rugged outback expeditions, and even family duties.
The 300 Series, first launched in 2021, replaced the iconic 200 Series and immediately cemented itself as a capable yet more refined 4x4. For 2025, Toyota has further refined the LandCruiser 300 with new features, improved safety systems, and a push towards better efficiency without losing its rugged DNA.
Exterior Design – Bold and Functional
The 2025 LandCruiser 300 maintains a strong, boxy silhouette that underlines its off-road intent. The high ground clearance, upright stance, and wide body create a powerful presence.
Up front, the bold grille design varies depending on the grade—GX, GXL, VX, Sahara, and GR Sport—offering buyers choices between rugged minimalism and luxurious chrome detailing. LED headlights with adaptive high-beam technology not only modernise the SUV’s look but also improve nighttime visibility.
At the rear, the SUV keeps its functional yet premium aesthetic, with large LED tail lamps and a wide-opening tailgate for practical loading. Rugged side steps and roof rails enhance its utility.
Engine and Performance – Power Meets Efficiency
The 2025 Toyota LandCruiser 300 continues with its 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6 diesel engine. Producing 227kW of power and a massive 700Nm of torque, it ensures smooth performance whether towing a caravan, hauling gear, or climbing steep terrain.
The 10-speed automatic transmission is finely tuned for both highway cruising and low-speed off-road control. Toyota’s engineers have worked hard to refine shift patterns, making the gearbox more responsive during overtaking and more composed in stop-and-go traffic.
Fuel efficiency, while never the LandCruiser’s strongest suit, is better than the old V8 200 Series. Official figures hover around 8.9L/100km—impressive for a vehicle of its size and capabilities.
For those considering long-distance touring, the LandCruiser’s 110L fuel tank ensures extended range, reducing the need for frequent stops in remote areas.
Off-Road Capability – The Heart of a LandCruiser
If there’s one area where the LandCruiser 300 dominates, it’s off-road performance. Built on Toyota’s GA-F platform, the 2025 model retains body-on-frame construction, ensuring toughness for rugged conditions.
Key off-road highlights include:
Full-time 4WD system with low-range gearing for maximum traction.
Multi-Terrain Select system that optimises traction control depending on surface type—sand, mud, rocks, or snow.
Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) for improved wheel articulation and stability.
Crawl Control for managing steep ascents and descents.
700mm wading depth for crossing rivers and streams.
Whether you’re tackling Cape York, the Simpson Desert, or Victorian High Country tracks, the LandCruiser 300 is built to get you there—and back.
Towing and Payload – A Touring Champion
Aussies love towing caravans, boats, and trailers, and the LandCruiser has always been a favourite for the job. The 2025 LandCruiser 300 offers a 3,500kg braked towing capacity, making it a reliable partner for long-haul trips.
Trailer Sway Control, integrated with the stability system, keeps everything in line during high winds or when overtaking trucks. Combined with its strong chassis and torque-rich engine, the LandCruiser 300 is perfectly suited for grey nomads and weekend adventurers alike.
Interior Comfort – Luxury Meets Practicality
Step inside, and you immediately notice the leap in refinement compared to older models. The 2025 LandCruiser 300 blends tough materials with premium finishes.
Depending on the variant, interiors range from durable cloth in GX models to premium leather upholstery in Sahara and GR Sport trims. The seats are wide, supportive, and built for long-distance comfort. Top trims include ventilated and heated front seats, second-row captain’s chairs, and even power-folding third-row seats.
The dashboard is dominated by a large 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Wireless charging, multiple USB-C ports, and a premium JBL sound system (on higher trims) ensure convenience for all occupants.
Space is abundant, with three-row seating available in most variants. Cargo space remains practical, and folding seats flat creates room for large gear—ideal for camping trips or bulky loads.
Technology and Features – A Modern Edge
While the LandCruiser is famed for toughness, Toyota ensures the 2025 model is equally modern in technology.
Digital instrument cluster with customisable displays.
360-degree camera system with underbody view for navigating tight trails.
Head-Up Display (HUD) projecting navigation and driving info onto the windscreen.
Advanced navigation system with real-time traffic updates.
Smart key with remote start for added convenience.
These features transform the LandCruiser into a vehicle that feels equally at home in the city as it does on rugged tracks.
Safety – Toyota’s Priority
Safety has become non-negotiable in modern SUVs, and the LandCruiser 300 delivers.
It features Toyota Safety Sense with advanced driver assistance systems such as:
Pre-Collision Safety with pedestrian and cyclist detection.
Adaptive Cruise Control with stop-and-go capability.
Lane Departure Alert with steering assist.
Road Sign Assist for speed and warning sign recognition.
Blind-Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
With a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, the 2025 LandCruiser is not just about protecting its occupants but also about giving peace of mind for long family journeys.
Variants and Pricing
The LandCruiser 300 is available in several trims, each catering to different needs:
GX – The entry-level workhorse, built tough and practical.
GXL – Adds comfort and convenience features.
VX – Balances luxury and off-road ability.
Sahara – Premium comfort with advanced features.
GR Sport – Designed for enthusiasts who want a sportier, rugged off-road package.
Pricing for 2025 in Australia ranges from around $103,000 to $145,000 plus on-road costs, depending on trim level. While not cheap, the LandCruiser’s reputation for reliability and strong resale value make it a smart investment.
How It Compares
Against competitors like the Nissan Patrol, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Land Rover Defender, the LandCruiser 300 holds its ground. While some rivals offer more luxury or sportier handling, none combine off-road strength, reliability, and resale value as effectively as Toyota.
The Nissan Patrol still wins with a petrol V8 for power lovers, but the LandCruiser’s diesel efficiency and global parts availability make it the safer long-term bet for remote travel in Australia.
Ownership, Reliability, and Running Costs
Toyota’s reputation for reliability is unmatched, and the LandCruiser is built with Australian conditions in mind. The 2025 model comes with Toyota’s five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, extendable to seven years for engine and driveline if serviced within Toyota’s network.
Service intervals are every 10,000km or 12 months, with capped-price servicing helping manage running costs. While insurance premiums may be higher given the vehicle’s value, strong resale ensures total ownership costs remain reasonable.
Final Verdict – The Best of Both Worlds
The 2025 Toyota LandCruiser 300 isn’t just an SUV—it’s a lifestyle statement. For Australians who demand a vehicle that can conquer the toughest terrains while keeping families cocooned in luxury, this is it.
It balances tradition with innovation, power with efficiency, and ruggedness with refinement. While its price tag will place it beyond reach for some buyers, for those who invest, the LandCruiser 300 offers something few vehicles can: confidence, capability, and comfort in any situation.
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