The Toyota Land Cruiser J200, particularly the facelifted model produced from 2015 to 2021, represents the pinnacle of Toyota’s long-standing tradition of building exceptionally capable and durable full-size SUVs. This generation, sold globally but with varying specifications, was a key model for Toyota in markets outside of North America, where it continued to be offered with diesel engines and a more luxurious focus. The 5.7-liter V8 gasoline engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel drive represents the top-tier powertrain option for many regions, offering a blend of substantial power and refined comfort. This variant positioned itself as the premium offering within the J200 lineup, catering to buyers prioritizing performance and towing capacity over fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Land Cruiser |
| Generation | Land Cruiser (J200, facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.7 V8 (381 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 18.1 l/100 km (13 US mpg, 15.6 UK mpg, 5.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 16.8 l/100 km (14 US mpg, 16.8 UK mpg, 6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.9 kg/Hp, 144.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 206.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 381 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 544 Nm @ 3600 rpm (401.23 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 3UR-FE |
| Engine displacement | 5663 cm3 (345.58 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 93.98 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 102.11 mm (4.02 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 16.7 l (17.65 US qt | 14.69 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2638 kg (5815.79 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3350 kg (7385.49 lbs.) |
| Max load | 712 kg (1569.69 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 456 l (16.1 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2345 l (82.81 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 93 l (24.57 US gal | 20.46 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3674 kg (8099.78 lbs.) |
| Length | 4950 mm (194.88 in.) |
| Width | 1980 mm (77.95 in.) |
| Height | 1880 mm (74.02 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm (112.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1648 mm (64.88 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1643 mm (64.69 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 226 mm (8.9 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 32° |
| Departure angle | 24° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 21° |
| Wading depth | 700 mm (27.56 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission ECT-i |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 355 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 345 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 285/60 R18 116V |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Land Cruiser variant is the 3UR-FE 5.7-liter V8 engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant utilizes direct fuel injection and Toyota’s VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligence) system on both intake and exhaust valves. The engine’s architecture is a 60-degree V configuration, contributing to a relatively compact engine bay footprint despite its large displacement. The 3UR-FE is known for its robust construction and reliability, prioritizing longevity over outright performance gains. The eight-speed automatic transmission (ECT-i) was a significant upgrade over the previous six-speed unit, offering smoother shifts and improved fuel economy. This transmission is electronically controlled and features a wide range of gear ratios optimized for both on-road cruising and off-road crawling.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.7-liter V8 delivers a substantial 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for accelerating the Land Cruiser’s considerable weight. While not a sports car, the engine offers strong low-end torque, making it capable of towing heavy loads and navigating challenging terrain. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps to keep the engine in its optimal power band, providing responsive acceleration. Compared to the diesel variants available in other markets, the gasoline V8 offers a smoother and quieter driving experience, but at the cost of significantly lower fuel economy. The full-time four-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various conditions, and the electronic locking differentials enhance off-road capability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 5.7-liter V8 model typically came equipped with a high level of standard features. These included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, a navigation system, and a suite of advanced safety technologies such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure alert. Optional extras often included a rear-seat entertainment system, a sunroof, and upgraded interior trim materials. The overall interior ambiance was focused on luxury and comfort, befitting the Land Cruiser’s premium positioning.
Chassis & Braking
The J200 Land Cruiser features a robust body-on-frame construction, providing excellent durability and off-road capability. The suspension system consists of double wishbones at the front and an independent multi-link setup at the rear, both incorporating coil springs and stabilizer bars. The braking system utilizes ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The large tires (typically 285/60 R18) contribute to both on-road stability and off-road traction.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 5.7-liter V8 Land Cruiser was generally well-received by critics, who praised its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. However, its fuel economy was often cited as a drawback. Compared to the diesel variants, the gasoline V8 offered less fuel efficiency but a more refined driving experience. Within the J200 lineup, this variant represented the top-tier offering, appealing to buyers who prioritized performance and luxury over fuel economy.
Legacy
The 3UR-FE engine, when properly maintained, has proven to be remarkably reliable. The J200 Land Cruiser, particularly the 5.7-liter V8 model, holds its value well in the used car market due to its reputation for durability and capability. These vehicles are often sought after by buyers looking for a long-lasting and capable SUV for towing, off-roading, or simply comfortable long-distance travel. While fuel economy remains a concern, the Land Cruiser’s overall reliability and build quality continue to make it a desirable vehicle for many years to come.
