2020 Toyota Land Cruiser vs 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was a masterclass in subtlety, with its design choices revealing their purpose over time. Its dished hood was a functional decision to improve forward sight lines, making it easier for drivers to navigate obstacles. The fenders, slightly bulging from the vehicle's smooth sides, provided space for wheel travel and visually indicated the SUV's width. The Heritage Edition added a touch of retro flair with blackened trim, a unique grille, and bronze BBS wheels, while the interior offered luxury with black perforated leather seating and a functional, if somewhat plain, dashboard.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser maintained its classic appeal with a few modern touches. The Heritage Edition celebrated the SUV's 65th anniversary with bronze BBS wheels and retro badges, but the standard model, with its Magnetic Gray paint and Terra leather upholstery, was the focus. The exterior, adorned with chrome and large lights, lacked character, but the interior offered plush materials and a mix of Toyota and Lexus design elements. Despite its dated appearance, the interior was comfortable, with premium leather upholstery and a commanding driving position.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was powered by a robust 5.7-liter V8 engine, producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, provided the SUV with impressive off-road capabilities. The Land Cruiser's suspension system, featuring a Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System and a Multi-Terrain Select control knob, allowed it to tackle various terrains with ease. With an approach angle of 32 degrees, a departure angle of 24 degrees, and a breakover angle of 21 degrees, the Land Cruiser was well-equipped for off-road adventures.

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser shared the same engine and transmission, offering a similar performance experience. However, the 2021 model's engine was quieter, with 90% of its torque available at just 2,200 rpm, providing unexpected thrust. The SUV's off-road capabilities were enhanced by a Torsen limited-slip differential, mud-and-snow tires, and a Multi-Terrain Monitor. The 2021 model also featured Crawl Control and Off-Road Turn Assist, making it a formidable off-road vehicle. On pavement, the Land Cruiser offered a refined driving experience, with a smooth ride and Lexus-like handling.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser offered a versatile interior with a three-row configuration, accommodating up to eight passengers. The second-row seats were heated and adjustable, while the third-row seats folded for additional cargo space. The SUV featured a four-zone automatic climate control system and a cooling box in the center console. The split tailgate design made loading and unloading easy, and the Land Cruiser could tow up to 8,100 pounds.

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser continued to offer a spacious interior with premium leather upholstery and a four-zone climate control system. The second-row seats were heated, and the third-row seats could accommodate adults if the second row was adjusted. The SUV provided 16.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 82.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. The split clamshell-style liftgate and tailgate made accessing the cargo area convenient.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Toyota Premium Audio, including 14 JBL speakers and integrated navigation. While it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it offered a Qi-compatible charging station and an Enhanced Multi-Terrain Monitor camera system. The interface was functional but felt outdated compared to competitors with larger screens.

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser's technology was similarly dated, with a 9-inch touchscreen that required tapping rather than swiping. The system lacked depth and did not support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. However, it included Siri Eyes Free voice control and a three-month subscription to SiriusXM satellite radio. The dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system was also outdated, but the 14-speaker JBL Synthesis audio system provided good sound quality.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P, offering features like pre-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. It also included the Star Safety System, 10 airbags, and Safety Connect services. While it lacked crash-test ratings, its robust construction and safety features provided peace of mind.

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser offered similar safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense and additional systems like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. However, it lacked more advanced driving assistance systems, which could be a drawback for some buyers. Despite this, the Land Cruiser's substantial curb weight and safety features made it a secure choice.