What you need to know about the Land Cruiser 300 GR-Sport
The Land Cruiser nameplate has found its way onto a number of Toyota products, one of the most desired is the larger, more luxury focused 300 Series. Previously known as the 200 Series which featured a thumping turbo charged V8, this newer model not only features more powerful 6 cylinder motors but the 300 has also been given the Gazoo Racing treatment.
What is Gazoo racing?
Did you know that Toyota’s racing history dates back more than 60 years? Having raced in all manner of motorsports throughout the world, Toyota’s major successes gained under the most extreme conditions serve as the flesh and blood for building tomorrow’s cars. Gazoo Racing editing road going vehicles are in a way what BMW M or Mercedes AMG cars are. They are sportier, more performance oriented models.
The new Land Cruiser 300
Not only is the 300 Series the first all-new Land Cruiser in 14 years, it also brings with it a host of technological features and innovations that not only improve usability but safety as well. On the design front, the '300' features a dramatically different profile to Its '200' predecessor. While the design is unmistakably angular in execution, it creates a cohesive form that offers far greater dynamic presence with a sense of agility. In profile the newcomer bears a passing resemblance to the much-loved 80-series of the '90's - keeping the classic two-box look.
The front design features a large and prominent radiator grille with sculpted rectangular headlamps on each side that blend seamlessly into the grille. U-shaped radiator openings underpin a strong design while the bonnet features the signature Land Cruiser 'channel' down the centre. The rear features large trapezoidal tail lamps with stylised light guides which are complemented by large Land Cruiser lettering and the Toyota Insignia.
It’s a new platform
The Land Cruiser 300 serves as the flagship to the Toyota SUV-range, and carries an enviable reputation as the 'Master of Africa'. The '300' model is a 'ground-up' design, featuring an all-new Toyota New Global Architecture platform designated as TNGA-F. The F indicates the first ladder-frame execution of TNGA - a fact that should find favour with off-road enthusiasts.
New power
An all-new engine line-up propels the newcomer; buyers have the choice of a 3.5-litre V6 Twin Turbo petrol engine or 3.3-litre V6 Turbodiesel. Both powerplants focus on delivering increased efficiency, improved torque output and elevated levels of refinement versus the outgoing V8-variants.
In order to accomplish this the diesel engine uses a host of technologies including a new dual-stage turbocharging system - which offers both low-speed response and high-rpm power.This helps the 3.3 V6 Diesel punch out 225kW and 700Nm available between.
The petrol V6 on the other hand offers 305kW with 650Nm which is available from 2000 rpm. This engine utilises Toyota's acclaimed D-4ST injection system which incorporates a combination of port and direct injection, quick-response Dual VVT-i system and low-inertia turbochargers to achieve an ultra-smooth power delivery.
What makes the GR-Sport so special?
For the first time on a Land Cruiser, a GR Sport or GR-S grade is offered which serves as the off-road performance model. As such the GR-S features bespoke exterior styling and trim, rugged 18" alloy wheels, while adopting an off-road biassed specification list - without skimping on any comfort or convenience. This model joins the other Gazoo Racing or GR products, and expands the GR brand into Land Cruiser territory for the first time.
Conquer any terrain
The Land Cruiser 300 GR-S features an updated version of Toyota’s MTS-system. This system allows the driver to select different terrain modes including Deep Snow, Mud, Dirt and Sand - to optimise vehicle performance and maximise traction. In Low-range mode, Rock, Mud and Sand are available alongside the new Auto mode which allows the LC300's terrain logic and camera system to help predict the preferred driving mode based on inputs from various sensors.
Also worth a look: the Toyota Everest and the Toyota Corolla Cross: Still King of the Crossover Castle?.
FAQ
Q: What does the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 GR-Sport cost in South Africa?
The Toyota Land Cruiser 300 GR-Sport starts from around R1,850,000 in South Africa, making it one of the pricier options in the large SUV segment but you're paying for legendary reliability and off-road capability.
Q: Is the Land Cruiser 300 GR-Sport worth buying?
If you've got the budget and need a proper 4x4 that can tow a house while keeping the family comfortable, then absolutely yes, the GR-Sport delivers on both luxury and capability fronts.
Q: What engine does the Land Cruiser 300 GR-Sport have?
The GR-Sport comes with Toyota's twin-turbo V6 petrol engine producing 305kW and 650Nm of torque, which is actually more powerful than the old V8 while being more fuel efficient.
Q: How does the GR-Sport differ from the regular Land Cruiser 300?
The GR-Sport gets sporty styling touches, unique wheels, different suspension tuning for better on-road handling, and interior upgrades that justify the premium over the standard model.
Q: What is the fuel consumption of the Land Cruiser 300 GR-Sport?
Toyota claims around 11.1 litres per 100km for the GR-Sport, which isn't too shabby for a 2.7-tonne luxury tank, though real-world figures will likely be higher depending on your driving style.
Should You Buy It?
The best luxury off-roader over R1,800,000 in SA is definitely the Land Cruiser 300 GR-Sport. At R1,850,000, it's not cheap, but you're getting legendary Toyota reliability, serious off-road capability, and enough luxury to keep the whole family happy on long trips. If you need something that can handle the Drakensberg passes as easily as the school run, and money isn't your primary concern, then yes, buy it. However, if you're budget-conscious or don't need the extreme off-road ability, consider the regular 300 or look at alternatives like the BMW X7 or Mercedes GLS.
