Toyota’s recent social media activity has sparked excitement among enthusiasts as it suggests the return of the Land Cruiser nameplate to the United States. In a Facebook post, the company shared a video featuring vintage Land Cruiser badges, accompanied by a succinct yet intriguing message: “Did you really think we’d be gone for long? The legend returns.” In an Instagram post the Toyota USA account said, “Nothing better than a comeback story. The legend returns…”
The Land Cruiser bid farewell to the U.S. market after the 2021 model year, while the rest of the world welcomed the redesigned 300-series generation in 2022. Notably, the 300-series Land Cruiser shares a platform with the latest Lexus LX, which arrived in the U.S. in 2022.
Toyota’s social media teaser comes hot on the heels of a report from Automotive News, which indicated that Toyota is contemplating bringing its next Land Cruiser Prado to the American market, potentially marketing it as simply the Land Cruiser. The Land Cruiser Prado, unlike its predecessor, was never officially sold in the U.S., although it shares close ties with the outgoing Lexus GX. As Lexus has already unveiled a redesigned GX for 2024, it is highly likely that a new Land Cruiser Prado, aligned with the new GX, is eagerly awaiting its turn.
Historically, Land Cruisers and Land Cruiser Prados have maintained a close relationship, with the Prado variants boasting a stronger emphasis on off-road capabilities. The current Prado features specialized driving modes tailored for various terrains, and it is reasonable to assume that the new generation will continue this trend, given the inclusion of the new Overtrail and Overtrail+ modes in the recently unveiled GX. Additionally, the GX, and consequently the forthcoming Land Cruiser Prado, come equipped with full-time four-wheel drive, a 2-speed transfer case, and a Torsen limited-slip center differential as standard.
Underpinning the new GX and the anticipated Land Cruiser Prado is Toyota’s TNGA-F body-on-frame platform. This versatile platform is shared with the 300-series Land Cruiser, the Lexus LX, as well as Toyota’s latest Tundra and Tacoma pickup trucks, and Sequoia SUV.
With Toyota’s suggestive social media post and the reports surrounding the potential return of the Land Cruiser Prado to the U.S., fans and off-road enthusiasts eagerly await further details and an official confirmation from the Japanese automaker. The Land Cruiser’s legacy and reputation as a formidable, adventure-ready vehicle have left a lasting impression, and its return to American soil would undoubtedly be met with great anticipation and excitement.
