HOME INSIDER'S GUIDES PRICES AND SPECS REVIEWS ON THE INSIDE CARS FOR SALE

Reviews > Car Reviews > Toyota > Toyota Land Cruiser (2003-07) Road Test

Reviews - Toyota

Toyota Land Cruiser (2003-07)

Overall Rating

3 stars

Land Cruiser updates the successul large 4x4 formula proven by the Colorado and 4-Runner before it. It will do school run or Serengeti with ease. It's not cheap but should outlast most rivals.

For
  • Spacious and civilised with true off-road abilities
  • Better value than Touareg or XC90
  • Landcruiser heritage means it's tough and reliable
Against
  • 4.0 V6 is thirsty
  • X5 330d is livelier and more fun to drive
  • Styling too brash for some people
Road Test

Land Cruiser's genes have been refined by the challenges of some tough environments; its predecessors have been survived harsh treatment in the Middle East and Australia, so this latest model can take almost anything British weather or terrain can throw at it. It's not exactly luxurious but it is very roomy and loaded with kit. The engines have power to spare for towing - Land Cruiser is quite relaxed with a two-horse trailer, big caravan or boat behind it. The 4.0 V6, with 245bhp on tap, is a modern petrol engine that manages 20mpg and does 0-60mph in under 10 seconds. But most British buyers want the 3.0 turbodiesel, which is a couple of seconds slower but good for 30mpg. On-road ride is acceptable but slightly wallowy if pushed hard. Handling is safe but slightly ponderous. Off-road, its power and grip propel it through most conditions. Used prices are high, but depreciation is fairly slow.

Need To Know

NCAP: Not tested

Best Models: 3.0 D-4D LC3 5dr

Worst Models: Petrol models and over-the-top LC5

Replacement: 2010


Alternatives
Toyota Land Cruiser (2003-07)
Star Ratings

Handling

2 stars

Comfort

3 stars

Quality & Reliability

5 stars

Performance

3 stars

Roominess

4 stars

Running Costs

2 stars

Value for Money

2 stars

Stereo/Sat Nav

4 stars
Related Links

Best Buy Loans

Bank of Scotland
7.8% Typical APR
Halifax
7.8% Typical APR
Marks & Spencer
8.9% Typical APR

Have you driven this car? Want to share your opinions? Write us a user review.