Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Land Cruiser |
| Generation | Land Cruiser (J200, facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | VX 4.5d V8 (272 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg, 29.7 UK mpg, 10.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp, 99.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 237.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 272 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 61 Hp/l |
| Torque | 650 Nm @ 1600-2600 rpm (479.42 lb.-ft. @ 1600-2600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 1VD-FTV |
| Engine displacement | 4461 cm3 (272.23 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.2 l (9.72 US qt | 8.09 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.8 l (15.64 US qt | 13.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2740 kg (6040.67 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3350 kg (7385.49 lbs.) |
| Max load | 610 kg (1344.82 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 138 l (36.46 US gal | 30.36 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 200 kg (440.92 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4990 mm (196.46 in.) |
| Width | 1980 mm (77.95 in.) |
| Height | 1945-1970 mm (76.57 – 77.56 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm (112.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1640-1650 mm (64.57 – 64.96 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1635-1645 mm (64.37 – 64.76 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 354 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 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
The J200 Land Cruiser, launched in 2007 and receiving a significant facelift in 2015, continued Toyota’s long tradition of building exceptionally durable and capable SUVs. The 2015 refresh brought updated styling, improved technology, and refinements to the powertrain. The VX 4.5d V8 model, powered by the 1VD-FTV engine and paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, was positioned as a premium offering, particularly popular in markets outside North America where large diesel engines were favored. It catered to customers needing a vehicle for both on-road comfort and serious off-road excursions, often used for towing and long-distance travel.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the VX 4.5d is the 1VD-FTV, a 4.5-liter V8 diesel engine. This engine utilizes a robust cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. It’s a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for efficient combustion. The engine employs two turbochargers – a primary turbo for low-end response and a secondary turbo to boost power at higher RPMs. An intercooler further enhances performance by cooling the compressed intake air. The DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, optimizes airflow for increased power and efficiency. The six-speed automatic transmission, a Toyota-designed unit, is known for its smoothness and durability. It’s programmed to provide a balance between fuel economy and responsive shifting, with a focus on delivering torque to all four wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.5d V8 automatic Land Cruiser offers a distinctly different driving experience compared to the gasoline-powered variants or those equipped with smaller diesel engines. The substantial 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque available from 1600-2600 rpm provides effortless acceleration and strong pulling power, making it ideal for towing heavy loads or navigating challenging terrain. While not a sports car, the Land Cruiser feels surprisingly agile for its size, thanks to the well-tuned suspension and responsive steering. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and predictably, although it may not be as quick to downshift as some modern transmissions. Compared to the 4.6-liter V8 gasoline engine, the diesel offers significantly better fuel economy and a more relaxed cruising experience. The automatic transmission, while convenient, does slightly diminish the direct control offered by the manual transmission available in some markets.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The VX trim level, as the flagship, came generously equipped. Standard features typically included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, a navigation system, automatic climate control, and a suite of safety features like ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras often included a sunroof, rear-seat entertainment system, and advanced off-road features like a crawl control system and multi-terrain select. The interior design emphasized luxury and practicality, with durable materials and a spacious cabin capable of comfortably seating seven passengers. The dashboard layout was functional and intuitive, with logically placed controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Land Cruiser J200 utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing exceptional strength and durability. The suspension system consists of double wishbones at the front and an independent multi-link setup at the rear, offering a comfortable ride both on and off-road. The VX trim typically featured upgraded shock absorbers and stabilizer bars for improved handling. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic brake-force distribution further enhance safety. The robust chassis and capable suspension allow the Land Cruiser to handle significant off-road challenges, including rocky terrain, deep mud, and steep inclines.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Land Cruiser J200, and specifically the 4.5d V8 variant, received overwhelmingly positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its exceptional build quality, luxurious interior, and impressive off-road capability. The diesel engine was lauded for its fuel efficiency and strong torque output. Compared to other large SUVs, the Land Cruiser stood out for its reliability and longevity. While some critics noted the relatively high price tag, they argued that the Land Cruiser’s overall value proposition justified the cost. Compared to the gasoline-powered Land Cruiser, the 4.5d V8 offered superior fuel economy and towing capacity, making it a more practical choice for many buyers. Against competitors like the Range Rover, the Land Cruiser often excelled in terms of reliability and off-road prowess, though it may have lacked some of the Range Rover’s more sophisticated features.
Legacy
The Toyota Land Cruiser J200, including the VX 4.5d V8 model, has earned a reputation as one of the most reliable and durable SUVs ever built. The 1VD-FTV engine, when properly maintained, is known to withstand high mileage and provide years of trouble-free service. On the used car market, these Land Cruisers command premium prices due to their reputation for longevity and capability. They are highly sought after by enthusiasts and those seeking a vehicle that can handle demanding conditions. The J200 represents a high point in Toyota’s SUV engineering, and its legacy continues to influence the design and development of future Land Cruiser models.
