Japan has finally seen the release of the Toyota Land Cruiser 250, which has dropped the Prado name that has been in use there since 1990. This competent off-roader, which is referred to as the “core model” of the Land Cruiser series, joins the more opulent 300 Series and the timeless 70 Series.

Japanese consumers are not given the choice of a hybrid drivetrain, whilst North American purchasers are limited to a single four-cylinder gas-electric hybrid engine. Alternatively, a 2.7-liter gasoline powerplant and a 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine are the two non-electrified engine options available to them. A selection of First Edition models, which have an 8,000 unit production limit, are also available to them.

The larger 300 series is meant to fill the role of high-end luxury, while the Land Cruiser 250 series is more concerned with functionality than its predecessor. With the exception of a few unique touches on the First Edition trims and the variety of extra accessories from Toyota, Jaos, Modellista, and Toy Factory, the Japanese version of the vehicle appears exactly like the EU- and US-spec vehicles. Six exterior hues and two inside finishes—dark chestnut and black—make up the color scheme.

The First Edition versions, which have round LED headlights and rectangular LED headlights, are based on the high-spec ZX and mid-spec VX trims. Both of them are mounted on brand-new, matte-black, 18-inch aluminum wheels with off-road tires. While the ZX is only offered in diesel, the VX can be purchased with gasoline or diesel.

The vehicles have leather upholstery, subtle titanium touches, and “First Edition” inscription on the doors. The diesel-powered models include with more generous standard equipment, such as the more advanced Toyota Teammate ADAS, the 14-speaker JBL premium sound system, and a nicer digital cockpit with two 12.3-inch displays.

The Land Cruiser 250 is equipped with the TNGA-F architecture, which pays homage to the series’ ladder-frame history. The SUV has a wheelbase of 2,850 mm (112.2 inches) and a length of 4,925 mm (193.9 inches). It can seat five or seven people.

Engine Configurations

Japanese consumers are not able to choose the hybrid gasoline option from North America or the mildly hybrid diesel option found in Europe and Australia in terms of powertrains. Rather, they are limited to ordering the Land Cruiser 250 with gasoline and diesel non-electrified powertrains.

The flagship 2.8-liter turbodiesel generates 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque and 201 horsepower (150 kilowatt / 204 PS). It is only compatible with an eight-speed direct-shift automatic transmission. The less powerful 2.7-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine has a power output of 160 horsepower (120 kW / 163 PS) and 246 Nm (181 lb-ft). It is mated to a six-speed Super ECT automatic transmission.

A full-time 4WD system with an electronic rear differential lock and a Torsen LSD on the center differential is mated to both powertrains. The model features a Multi-Terrain Monitor that combines feed from four cameras, and it offers six driving models via the Multi-Terrain Select system to make life easier when driving off the established path.

Regarding safety features, all trim levels come equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense ADAS suite as standard, while higher grade vehicles can choose for the Toyota Teammate, which adds more advanced systems that take over control of the car when specific conditions are fulfilled.

Toyota retailers in Japan are now accepting orders for the new Land Cruiser 250. The base-spec five-seater GX costs ¥5,200,000 ($33,700), while the flagship seven-seater ZX First Edition costs ¥7,850,000 ($50,872).