2009 Toyota Land Cruiser 4X4

Pros

Great engine, lots of technology, comfort and go-anywhere capability

Cons

Poor gas mileage, 3rd row seats do not fold flat

Purchased As New

The 2009 Toyota Land Cruiser is an exceptional vehicle for people who want luxury that can go virtually anywhere. Trusted around the world by organizations like the UN to get people over rough terrain and through bad weather, I now know why there is such a cult following for this vehicle. There are many more consumer-friendly SUVs on the market but this truck has one of the best combinations of luxury and rugged capability that you can find at any price. An innovative keyless entry and keyless start system keeps you from ever having to reach into your pocket for the key. A slightly complicated but robust Navigation system, bluetooth phone integration, park distance indicators, backup camera, rearseat entertainment and a refrigerated center console for beverages put the Land Cruiser on the cutting edge of technology and comfort. Couple all that with the ability to climb rocks in Crawl Control mode while on the way to a camping site and you have a vehicle that truly suits almost any need. Gas mileage is poor but that is to be expected when trying to move such a vehicle with a 381 HP engine. The other thing I wish could be improved is that the 3rd row seats do not fold flat although that would be difficult to design in a vehicle that sports the kind of suspension the Land Cruiser has. The fold-up 3rd row seats are better than in the previous Land Cruiser but are still a necessary sacrifice in order to get a vehicle that is so well-mannered around town and so capable offroad. For $65K you can certainly find more "bling" or a more prestigious badge on the hood of competitors. But, educated consumers don't need to see a ton of chrome rolling at them to recognize the Toyota Land Cruiser as an elite vehicle with a storied history.