Lecture Notes: 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser Heritage Edition

Introduction

• The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser Heritage Edition is the focus.
• Second oldest running nameplate in America, not American in origin.
• Part of the Toyota lineup for over 60 years.

Historical Context

• Current generation (200 series) has been around since 2008.
• Military heritage similar to Jeep, began in the 1940s.
• Rolling history lesson on wheels.

Design and Features

• Exterior Design:

  • Yakima roof rack adds to the design, costs $400 aftermarket.
  • Gold BBS 18-inch wheels.
  • Badge reminiscent of the 1950 series FJ40 Land Cruisers.
  • Dimensions: 195 inches long, 78 inches wide, 78 inches tall.
  • Latest design refresh in 2016, with LED headlights and fog lights.
  • Dark chrome pieces for a more aggressive look.

• Off-Road Capabilities:

  • 18-inch wheels with 285/60 series tires provide off-road capability.
  • Ground clearance of just under nine inches.
  • Competitors like GMC Yukon AT4 offer more with adjustable air suspension.
  • Features include skid plates, locking center differential.

• Interior Design and Features:

  • Interior improvements made in 2016, but still feels dated.
  • 9-inch touchscreen lacking Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
  • High-quality leather seats, 10-way power adjustment, heated and cooled.
  • Standard sunroof, no panoramic option.
  • Dashboard materials are soft-touch plastic, lacks premium finishes.

Performance

• Engine and Transmission:

  • 5.7-liter V8 producing 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque.
  • Eight-speed automatic transmission.
  • Fuel economy: 13 city / 17 highway.

• Driving Experience:

  • Feels big and heavy, suitable for any terrain.
  • Suspension is soft, providing a smooth ride.
  • Steering is light and slow, brakes require adjustment.

Utility

• Cargo and Space:

  • Split opening tailgate, power function added.
  • Heritage model seats five, third-row optional for 2021.
  • Cargo space: 42 cubic feet, expandable to 82 cubic feet.

• Technology and Safety:

  • Toyota Safety Sense, adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert.
  • Lacks active lane keep assist and newer tech features.

Market Position

• Heritage model priced at around $90,000.
• Competes with more modern and comfortable SUVs.
• Collector Appeal: Limited production, potential to become a collector's item.

Conclusion

• The Land Cruiser Heritage Edition appeals to enthusiasts, especially those valuing reliability and off-road capability.
• Despite being outdated in tech and handling, it remains a robust, reliable option.
• Uncertain future for the Land Cruiser, potential rebranding or discontinuation.