Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series Review | Towing, Off-Road & Family SUV

Few vehicles carry the kind of legendary reputation that the Toyota LandCruiser does in Australia. Across dusty outback tracks, cattle stations, beach trails, and suburban streets, the LandCruiser has been the go-to vehicle for decades. With the launch of the LandCruiser 300 Series, Toyota has not only modernised its iconic off-roader but also ensured that it retains the DNA Aussies love: strength, dependability, and go-anywhere ability.

This review dives deep into every aspect of the LandCruiser 300 Series — from towing capacity and off-road capability to interior comfort and long-distance touring practicality. Whether you’re towing a caravan across the Nullarbor, taking the family up the coast, or navigating rocky 4WD tracks, this is a vehicle designed to handle it all.

Exterior Design and First Impressions

The 300 Series continues the LandCruiser’s bold, square-shouldered stance, but introduces a sleeker, more refined look. The upright grille, LED headlights, and pronounced wheel arches remind you of its rugged purpose, while subtle chrome accents and alloy wheel options lift its premium appeal.

Practical design choices — like a high bonnet line for water wading, robust underbody protection, and wide side steps — underline that this isn’t just another SUV. It’s built to be a workhorse, but with the polish expected from a modern luxury vehicle.

The 300 Series is longer and slightly wider than its predecessor, the 200 Series, offering more presence on the road and additional cabin space without sacrificing maneuverability.

Engine and Performance

Twin-Turbo Diesel V6: A New Era

Toyota made the controversial move of replacing the 200 Series’ 4.5-litre V8 diesel with a 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6 diesel in the 300 Series. On paper, the numbers speak volumes:

• Outputs: 227kW of power and 700Nm of torque.

• Transmission: 10-speed automatic for smooth shifts and improved towing control.

• Fuel Efficiency: Around 8.9L/100km combined, significantly better than the old V8.

The new engine is not only more efficient but also more powerful, with torque arriving lower in the rev range. This is especially useful when towing heavy loads or crawling over rocks.

Petrol Variant Availability

Some global markets also offer a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol. While it hasn’t been the preferred option in Australia due to fuel economy and diesel dominance in the 4x4 space, Toyota may expand options if demand grows.

Towing Capacity

For Aussie buyers, towing capacity is often the deciding factor in purchasing a LandCruiser.

• Braked Towing Capacity: 3,500kg — enough for caravans, horse floats, boats, and large trailers.

• Unbraked Towing Capacity: 750kg.

• Tow Ball Weight: Varies across trims, but Toyota has engineered the 300 Series for maximum stability under load.

Thanks to the strong chassis, advanced suspension, and trailer sway control systems, the LandCruiser 300 is one of the most dependable tow vehicles in Australia. Long-distance towing is where it shines, keeping both driver and passengers comfortable even when hauling heavy loads across hundreds of kilometres.

Off-Road Capability

Four-Wheel Drive System

The 300 Series continues with a full-time 4WD system, reinforced with Toyota’s latest off-road technology:

• Crawl Control: Acts like low-speed cruise control for steep or rocky terrain.

• Multi-Terrain Select: Optimises traction across mud, sand, rock, and snow.

• Locking Differentials: Front, rear, and centre differential locks for maximum grip.

Suspension and Ground Clearance

The vehicle’s suspension has been retuned for better articulation, giving excellent wheel travel over uneven ground. Ground clearance of around 235mm ensures the Cruiser clears rocks, sand dunes, and ruts with ease.

Approach and Departure Angles

Its 32° approach and 24° departure angles keep it competent on steep tracks. Combined with its wading depth of 700mm, it’s built to thrive in harsh environments.

Interior Comfort and Practicality

Step inside, and you realise the 300 Series isn’t just about ruggedness; it’s also about comfort.

• Seating: Available in 5-seat or 7-seat configurations, with leather-appointed trim in higher grades.

• Infotainment: A large 12.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

• Climate: Tri-zone climate control ensures comfort for all passengers.

• Storage: Ample storage bins, cup holders, and a cavernous boot (particularly in 5-seat versions).

For families, the second-row space is generous, while the third row (in 7-seaters) is best suited for kids or occasional adult use. The cabin is noticeably quieter thanks to improved insulation, making long road trips more relaxing.

Safety and Driver Assistance

The LandCruiser 300 Series comes packed with Toyota Safety Sense, including:

• Adaptive Cruise Control

• Lane Departure Alert

• Blind Spot Monitoring

• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert

• Automatic Emergency Braking

• Multiple airbags throughout the cabin

Its 5-star ANCAP safety rating cements its role as a safe family hauler.

Variants and Pricing in Australia

The 300 Series is offered in several trims to cater to different buyers:

• GX: The no-frills, rugged workhorse.

• GXL: Balanced between practicality and features.

• VX: More tech and comfort, suited to families.

• Sahara: Luxury-focused, with premium finishes.

• Sahara ZX: High-end features and luxury appointments.

• GR Sport: Off-road focused with enhanced suspension and styling tweaks.

Pricing in Australia typically ranges from the low $100,000s to around $140,000+, depending on trim and accessories.

Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs

While large 4x4s aren’t known for fuel thriftiness, the new diesel V6 improves economy compared to the old V8. Averaging under 9L/100km on the highway is impressive for a vehicle of this size.

Servicing intervals are every 10,000km or 12 months, with Toyota offering capped-price servicing. Insurance costs vary based on use (private vs. business, towing vs. urban), but given the LandCruiser’s value, premiums can be higher than smaller SUVs.

Ownership Experience

Touring and Family Travel

The LandCruiser excels as a long-distance tourer. Families towing caravans, boats, or trailers across Australia will appreciate the balance between comfort and capability. Its huge boot, advanced infotainment, and ride quality make road trips less tiring.

Durability and Resale Value

Toyota LandCruisers are renowned for reliability, and the 300 Series continues this legacy. Resale values remain high, with older LandCruisers often fetching strong prices due to their reputation for longevity.

Accessories and Customisation

A wide range of accessories is available, from bull bars, snorkels, and roof racks to towing kits and suspension upgrades. This makes the 300 Series a blank canvas for owners who want to tailor it for touring or hardcore off-roading.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Strong twin-turbo V6 diesel engine.

• Exceptional towing and off-road capability.

• Comfortable and modern interior.

• Advanced safety features.

• High resale value.

Cons:

• High purchase price.

• Size makes urban driving tricky.

• Fuel economy, while improved, is still heavy compared to smaller SUVs.

• Insurance and servicing costs can be higher.

Final Verdict

The Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series represents the perfect blend of heritage and modernisation. Toyota has successfully replaced the beloved V8 with a more efficient and powerful diesel V6, added world-class technology, and retained the rugged dependability that Australians have trusted for decades.

For families who tour, adventurers who tackle outback tracks, or anyone needing serious towing muscle, the LandCruiser 300 remains the benchmark. Expensive, yes — but its capability, reliability, and resale value make it a worthy investment.