This is the video I didn't know I needed. I just sold my GX 470, was considering a brand new vehicle in the LC 250. But in essence, I would just be making a lateral move. 80 or 100 series is the way to go.
You got it. 200 is my favorite all arounder LC. So smooth and comfortable. Triple Locked- 80 is the best offroader ever built in Toyota's hay day. My 80 is my favorite to for fun 200 hands down for any long drive or light overlanding.
The light duty Land Cruiser LC 250 Prado is a Land Cruiser every bit as much as the station wagon series 200. There are three series of land cruisers. Unfortunately, in the US we did not have access to their heavy duty or light duty series. They only sent us their station wagon series which frankly were built for interior space and comfort. Basically, the rest of the world received the utilitarian workhorses and we received the cushy station wagon. I am thrilled we’re finally getting the light duty Land Cruiser LC 250 Prado. It is a shame it is not branded with the full name. I am personally adding to my First Edition a LC 250 Prado below the Land Cruiser badge on the back. Not because it is less than, but simply because that is what it is.
The only heavy duty is the 40 and 70 series. The 55, 60 and 80 were all solid axles which puts them levels above any wishbone suspensions. The 80 however, being categorized as a Station Wagon, is the most Rugged SUV on the market then, ans would still hold that top spot to anything coming out since then to today. So we all know the 80 was over built and is every bit heavy duty as a 40 and 70 series.
the essence of land cruiser to me is a utilitarian, robust, reliable and simple vehicle. Something that can do almost anything you ask of it while lasting a very long time. In today's world, obviously the 70 is the embodiment of that name. other than that? the full size land cruisers (100, 200, 300) have been as much about comfort and luxury as they have about the other qualities. due to this, they are too expensive for the everyday person. When I look at the qualities I mentioned, one could argue that the 4Runner BETTER embodies the land cruiser qualities than the 200 or the 300 or the LX variants do. Its more simple and utilitarian and its reliability is on par if not better than the 200 (not to mention WAY cheaper on maintenance and WAY cheaper if something breaks). The full size LC's are more robust yes. My point is, land cruisers have become boutique items due to their cost and maintenance. The fact that the 250 is offering a spartan model (the 1958) in order to bring the price down a bit while improving fuel economy to ease cost of ownership is incredible news. IF they can deliver on the robustness and reliability, which obviously remains to be seen, then we have a true gem of a land cruiser on our hands. Until we know how the 250 will hold up and while the 70 is not sold in NA, the 5th gen 4Runner is the closest thing to a traditional land cruiser we have. And for those about to argue the 4Runner is nowhere near the quality of the LC, consider the 1GR-FE was used in the 70 series and the Aisin A750 trans was used in the 100 series.
The Gen 5 is definitely the best a 4Runner has to offer and is a tough Rig. But it doesn't hold the Land Cruiser badge..In fact the new Gen 6 4Runner will be same motor (never happened before in NA) and same trans and frame as the Land Cruiser. Yet it will not be a Lamd Cruiser nor hold the badge..Which then brings it full circle. If the 4 Runner is not a Land Cruiser, but effectively will be a minimal different mock up on the TNGA-F sharing same power train as a LC250, then that is further evidence that the LC250 is not a true Land Cruiser, it merely was adorned with the Badge.
I got my self a Land Cruiser 250 mid with premium package and all I can say I love it. Yes it’s a 4 banger with turbo and mild hybrid. It doesn’t really drive like a 4 banger. I love it. Yes wrangler is more capable off road but guess what my 2023 wrangler 3.6 engine blew at 6000 miles. Yes then I got 4Runner trd pro solar octane and I loved it. But I wanted something more modern. And I could be any happier.
Awesome content, thanks so much. I live in Scotland. We had the 80 series, and also the 100 series available here. I drive a 2006 100 series Amazon with 256k miles on it. It's an incredible vehicle. We have a lot of snow and salt on the roads here - so the chassis is the main thing to look after along with regular servicing. Most 100s here are also diesel. The V8s are awesome, but the cost of fuel here is staggering! Thanks again.
Just to say: enjoying your video a lot man. You got your Vehicles well selected. What a great Collection!! And your vision: only the Heavy Duty is a real LC. Yeah!!’ Bit of jealousy I can’t hide 😉. Here in Europe, we have lots of diesels. I got both. One 100 series V8, one 80 HDJ ‘97. Daily the V8 (big berta) and the beast just for fun. Greets from the center of Europe. Thanks for sharing ….
The new LC 250 almost has the exact same specs as the series 80. Toyota knew they had mastered the platform looking back. Not even speaking of if it’s a real LC or not. Heck almost any vehicle built after Covid or 2022 is going to be an appliance for the most part.
Same special? you mean the 112 wheel base, which is same on all their SUVs? I will point out the biggest spec, that isn't the same... Front Solid Axle.. for starters..
I saw my first new 24’ 250 and thought it was a Honda or a Nissan until I got close. Looked quite small because I was in my built 80. Working on my 07 Sequoia today, it’s lightweight compared to a Land Cruiser. I’ve decided to replace it with a 100. Thanks for the always excellent Cruiser videos. My family owns 5 Cruisers and 15 other different types of Toyota’s! Yo Yota🔧
@@CruisingTheLand lol yep, Toyota definitely decided to go for the soccer moms and desk jockey types with the new cruiser, that is supposed to be inspired by the 80 series. Same marketing as each line since 60 series. Now with more of “bro, sweet 4Runner” vibe. Ugh, it is what it is.
I think Toyota would have drawn far less ire from long term Land Cruiser fans if they were honest about what segment of the product line they were bringing to the table this time. The 250 is technically part of the Land Cruiser family, but a Prado is not the same branch of the family tree as other more robust models like the 70, 80, or 200. Current off-road model lineups are making me increasingly happy I decided to put my dollars into refreshing my 80 series in LX450 guise.
Would love your opinion on the Dissent off road lc250. Checkout his walk around. Running 38s on stock upper & lower control arms, stock cv axels and stock steering rack. It also ran the rubicon.
I will be glad to.. I have done the Rubicon. It is an easy trail for Rock Crawlers, remember people did this trail decades ago with Jeeps on 33s.. Now people cruise though with 37s and 40s.. Rubicon is a scenic trail, but difficulty is low.. If you want a tough trail, go do Dusy Ershim. The LC250 would not make that one. 40s is a must.
Here in Europe the LC 300 is not being sold either but the LC 250 is soon to arrive as a diesel. You can however buy both gas and diesel LC 300s here in the EU that were imported from Russia right before the Ukraine invasion in 2022. You end up having to pay an extra import fee though into the EU from Russia and so a top spec LC 300 will run you around 150k euro! :)))))
Woah that's a big surcharge! I would love my 200 to be diesel. I would pick diesel all day over the cylinder hybrid or the 6 cylinder twin turbo. Gotta wait 25 years to be able to import to the US, unless I make friends with a diplomat. The only way I would consider the LC250, is with a diesel Power Plant. But we will never get that in the US. So I will gold out first for a 2008 200 series diesel (2008 + 25 years = 2033) then the 300 series diesel.
@@CruisingTheLand Yep! Around an extra 30k euro! 😄 A guy has like a 2013 LC 200 diesel 4.5 liter on my street here in Bucharest. Sounds like a tank when he drives by! Yeah, Europe is getting the diesel LC 250. Might be pretty legit for what it is-a Prado! 🤣
The gx460 is built at the tahara plant in japan on the same assembly line as the ls lx and 200/300 series. What makes a land cruiser a land cruiser is the quality in materials and assembly of the vehicle so on that alone you can say that everything before 2024 built in that plant was meant to last 25 years with little to no upkeep . Which is the basis of the nameplate. So yes the prado IS A LAND CRUISER. The gx460 may be the same frame as the tacoma and 4 runner but those products ( tacoma and 4 runner ) also used normal quailty toyota parts and were built in the usa by americans that dont care about the pride of a Japanese car. So they are not the same.
Yes the Tahara plant is a good place to be born. So that bodes well for the Prado and GX. However those models are nit getting the same frame as the 200, and UPAs, LCAs and all other components. Land Cruiser is the flagship model, the Prado and GX never were, yet great reliable vehicles within their own. The LC250 is a Prado, which got the Land Cruiser badge in the Norrh American market. A little slight of hand on behalf of Toyota Motor Corp.
I've had my F?J62 for 36 years. Rock solid until the last 4 years. Time to get something new. I was pleasantly surprised that Toyota was bringing back the LC as "true to the Land Cruiser origins". In fact I put a deposit down on one sight unseen. But once I test drove one, I was sadly disappointed. Unfortunately it is not the rugged "truck" I am used to. it is true what you are saying, "it's just a Prado." IMHO, it's just another SUV.
So in short Toyota no longer makes a Land Cruiser? If all new models are made on same TNGF and not V8 then that should be true. But somehow other markets getting the "new" 70 series are getting a heavy duty LC are?. I get the argument, is just that saying a real LC is a 100 or a 200 just because of the V8 is like saying a 60/70/ and early 80s aren't. To me a real LC is and always will be a 40 and the 80 because that is what I know and because the 100 IFS scared me at the beginning and the 200 was unattainable but wont knock the new model simply for the 4 banger and its Prado roots. Thing is people who never owned anything but a 100/200 will believe they know what is a LC while ignoring LC roots and history. Anyhow, great video man.
not saying V8 makes it a Land Cruiser.. It's a Prado. Example: Lexus came out in 1996 with the LX450. 80= LX450 100 = LX470 200 = LX570 300 = LX600 250 = GX550 Ah-Ha! GX is a Prado and also 4runner model. So the 250 is a Prado, not a Land Cruiser. The Land Cruiser has always been the absolute best Toyota has to offer. The new FJ Cruiser will be called a FJ Land Cruiser. Ain't no Land Cruiser past owner going out to buy a FJ Land Cruiser, unless it's for their mother or grand mother.
I test drove the 250. It was a nice drive. Pickup was a bit disappointing. But, most of all, I could not sit in the back and look out over the ocean. Too small.
Tail Gate is another Land Cruiser staple.. They cut lots of extras to drop it 30k. But Toyota is in business to sell vehicles and not appease us diehards. So if the design team and engineers are given a 90k budget and told to build a Bad Ass 4x4 vehicle to go anywhere? well they did (200 series). And now same team is given 60k budget to do the same thing (250.series), there will be limitations and materials that are cheaper and loss in some functuonality. Oh yes, in the mid 1990s the 80 series was about 55-60k. That is the equivalent to 110k today with inflated dollars.
Rock crawling is a small community which Toyota as biggest car manufacturer is not interested. Instead touring and overlanding is done by many many people across the globe. Touring and comfort in same machine....
I own a 2014 LX 570 with 170k. Every time I get the oil changed at my local toyota deal, they ask if I want to trade it in for the new land cruiser. I just laugh at them. 😂😂😂
I like the way the 250 looks and understand they wanted to use the name, only problem is they can't use Prado or even sport like range Rover did because it's the only one in the US so nothing to differentiate it with. They selling you a Whopper Jr instead of a Whopper, if I had the cash I go for the LX at least it comes with bacon and cheese
I agree with what you say about the toyota "LC" 250. Got a question though. What do you use for a power source on an overland rig? Something like an ecoflow or a redarc system. Thanks
I have a couple Bluetti's with their 200w solar portable foldable panel. I feel the last couple years, power storage has got cheaper ($599 for 1800W) now 33 cents a watt, is a good deal. And solar panels let you stay off thr grid.
Unless you are buying the right hand ones plated somewhere in the US, you are importing them directly from Japan. Are you importing them? If you don't mind me asking, what state/city do you live in? Just curious
@OhDearBabajan I didn't import these..Don't think I would have the patience..I bought these when they were already state side. Oh yeah, and CA doesn't want then. Must register out of state.
Great video!❤ Do you have a Land Cruiser 79 Series? In my country (South Africa) and Australia those are revered like Gods, especially the V8 versions! Always wondered why people in the States don't have them. I think they would really disrupt the truck market there
@@CruisingTheLand 25 years???🤣 Someone in government is really stupid for coming up with that law. The 79 could really be a major contender in the midsize truck market. I think it’d kill the Tacoma (which we in SA don’t get😅).
I’m not sure why but the LC250 just doesn’t do it for me. What’s funny is I’m sure some people think my rig isn’t an LC. I have a 2020 LX570. In my defense I’m outfitted it like a LC. My 18” evo corse darkarzeros are on order. I’ll pair them with Toyo open country. Also putting on Powerbrake D Line brakes later this month.
I had a 2008 LX570, and would get a 2016 facelift one again.. My wife went to the dark side and is driving a L405 Range Rover..At least its still V8. But in the shop as we speak.. lol
Light Duty Land Cruiser = Prado Look up this article posted by toyota "Toyota Land Cruiser history: Heavy and Light Duty edition" its a land Cruiser but light duty as characterized by toyota.
It's is a 4runner... 4Runner = GX470 GX470 = Prado Prado = LC250 All Land Cruisers are light duty The Prado is not a Land Cruiser. The heavy duty Land Cruisers are solely the 40 series and 70 series. But the light duty Land Cruisers are far more robust than the 4Runner/GX460/GX470/Prado which the LC250 is part of the Prado group. Extra Light Duty.
@@CruisingTheLand The 4Runner is the Toyota Hilux Surf not the Prado, The Hilux and Hilux Surf are not Land Cruisers. Since 1990 Toyota has been marketing the Land Cruiser Prado which is the same year the 80 series station wagon was introduced. So the Land Cruiser Prado has been a land cruiser just as long as the 80 series. So, I disagree with your truth bomb that the 250 series is not a Land Cruiser. It was built as a lighter duty version (no such thing as extra light duty) It was developed, in part, in order to compete with the highly successful Mitsubishi Pajero (which I owned that first generation Mitsubishi Montero the first year it was marketed in the US). The 250 is not a replacement for the series 200, it is a replacement for the J150. I have been waiting for Toyota to import the LC Prado since 1990. The upgrades from the 150 to the 250 are extensive and impressive. Toyota has evolved their three series of Land Cruisers to address the needs of the worldwide markets and differences in roads, emission requirements, CAFE standards, etc. As you mention several times, the 250 is stock built as more of an overlander not a rock crawler. And I am supremely confident that my Tahara built First Edition Land Cruiser 250 Prado will be capable as an overlander. If I could have purchased a LC or LC Prado before with these specifications I would have. 326 hp, 465 lb-ft torque, center and rear locking differentials, front stabilizer bar disconnect, 22/25 mpg, Full time 4wd, Rock rails and skid plates, off road cameras, roof rack, Lexus adjacent interior, 2400 watt inverter. For an overlander, I wish it had a larger gas tank, but otherwise couldn't be more excited with the specs and the actually driving experience so far.
if it can survive a third world country with less maintenance ,it deserves the name . sad to say but we got watered down Toyotas here in North America.
As the owner of a 40, 80, 200 and GX no its not. I love my 23 Gx Nori Green Blackline but the prado is still notthe same spec. Shut a door from an LX and GX b2b and tell me im wrong. The prado is still WAY superior to domestic offerings. I still say buy the GX over the new US LC especially to 23' for the 4.6 V8. Great engine, no turbo, no bearing issues. The 5.7 V8 with the 8 speed in my 2020 200 is my favorite powertrain though.
@@CruisingTheLand haha man I love your content! I have a 2002 100 Series with 200k miles that's still kicking. Your videos have persuaded me to not only use it as a daily but I'm going to attempt to fully restore this truck to get it looking brand new and eventually pass it down to my daughter as her first car in 13 or so years if we arent using flying cars by then 🚗
True that. 'B' is for the 4 cyl diesel engine and 'H' is for the 6 cyl diesel engine and 'VD' is for the 8 cyl Diesel engine. As I mentioned, I dont do post edits, but also welcome the corrections.
Lol... It can be! Just remove the AHC!! I have had plenty of 100s and 470s and truth be known in 2006 on the Land Cruiser VVTi model they had AHC optioned on some of them. I believe 2007 too. But they too can get the sex change and go Shock and coil.
@@CruisingTheLand Oh I see. My mechanic warned me that when my "Lexus suspension" on my 2006 LC goes out, I should change to the "other" option. I'm assuming that's the "shock and coil".
I will play devil's advocate. Youre kind of wrong about the 250. Couple of years ago, there was a huge difference between a 200 and a 150 series. Today a 250 and a 300 is the same chassis. Toyota moved the Prado and its sibblings up in durability but you can also argue a the 300 series moved down the durability ladder. Sure the 300 has 2 more extra bump stops, but its the same chassis. So either the 250 is more of a regular land cruiser or the 300 is now lighter duty than the 200. Ironically, I'd trust the 250 4banger way more than the 300. I do not trust that TT V6 one bit. Its a dumpster fire. Even if Toyota addresses reliability concerns, its a nightmare to work on and the aluminum panels is proving to be a nuisance in the middle east where they've been having issues with replacements since aluminum isnt as repair friendly as steel. A youtuber made an excellent point about TNGA-F. He said the new platform killed the GX, 4Runner and Prado because they no longer have their own platform.
I would say the TNGA-F killed the Land Cruiser because it shares it with its weaker sibling. Now a chassis that is shared, doesnt mean all the components are the same on said chassis. Like the Gladiator and the Mojave model, same chassis design but the Mojave has a thick gauge frame, about 30%, so it can be launched in the desert. As for the 300, I would say rhe diesel is the way to go. But overall, the 200 is more robust than the 250. I actually had alot more to share, which would be more of a 200 vs 250. Rhe 30k difference in price, means savings had to be made on many components, trust me.
@CruisingTheLand I can totally believe you when you say the 200 is more robust. Everytime I drive a 200, it feels like it's made from a solid piece of granite. My cousin test drove a 300 when they first hit the market and he said it was like driving a corolla. He settled for a LX570 instead.
Is is not a land cruiser. The 250 is a prado. And the 300 is the land cruiser(not sold in the us) The 250 in europe is a turbo diesel . In the us we always get the gas motors.
Yep.. Diesel is huge in these Land Cruisers because you get power and efficiency. I know, I have those 3 JDM Diesels with 1HZ, 12HT, 1HD-FT and I love them!
@CruisingTheLand I just came back from Europe last week and rented a passat diesel there. Spent about 85.00 in diesel in 1 month driving everyday. Land cruisers are a rare sight where I was. But saw 3 nice built prados. The 300 series are way expensive. They look nice. But rather have an 80 or 100 diesel. The 250 in the US is actually shorter than the new 4runner.
For Fj, if you don't respect and honour Toyota soo called underpower motors and end up changing the heart. Mate you are not Land Cruiser enthusiast...😂
I am sure you have never rock crawled. In order to do that to the Extreme, you need big tire and clearance. Hence the 40" Trepadors aired down to 4psi. The 1F or 2F does not power that setup. Even a chevy 350 won't, because you need fuel injection for the different pitch and angles you will encounter. Everything is Toyota on that FJ40 except the engine. I will never make any excuses, that is the proper engine for that set up and purpose. If it was a beach cruiser on 33s, then sure I'd keep original motor. But this beast is NOT a beach cruiser.
250 is Prado, 300 is Land Cruiser. Why you don't buy a 300 and compare? You have all Land Cruisers but you are comparing all these to Prado. Prado is sort of light duty and that is 250 series. Please buy a 300 series and comparing era's. That would be better.
I would but the 300 is not available in the US. We are only being force fed the 250.. Unless I get a LX600, which is available in the US and is a 120k 300 series.
Hi Ed. I have watched many of your videos and builds on 200 series. Always top notch. I understand that as a Toyota Dealer, you obviously play with the cards Toyota Motor Corp deals you..And they held back the 300 series (True Land Cruiser badge worthiness) So instead they are giving you the Prado and badging it a Land Cruiser. Still a great Rig, but it is not the top dog that Toyota produces. That's the 300. And now they are coming out with the FJ Cruiser successor, but this time they will call it the FJ Land Cruiser.. which is a shame. FJ Cruiser Guys want to be Land Cruiser guys. But Land Cruiser Guys do not want to be FJ Cruiser Guys. Same for Prado. That Pradoe LC250 will mostly be purchased to new customers in the Land Cruiser market and 4Runner owners.
The engineer accent...I'm 💀 The new Land Cruiser is definitely not a true Land Cruiser. It's a fancy 4runner. I have an 80 and a 5th gen t4r. There's a difference
This is the video I didn't know I needed. I just sold my GX 470, was considering a brand new vehicle in the LC 250. But in essence, I would just be making a lateral move. 80 or 100 series is the way to go.
Someone had to say it. Bravo Jamie.
Thanks Brother!
I use my 200 series to get me from A to B in comfort, luxury, and I love it. Man that V8 is soo good.
You got it. 200 is my favorite all arounder LC. So smooth and comfortable. Triple Locked- 80 is the best offroader ever built in Toyota's hay day. My 80 is my favorite to for fun 200 hands down for any long drive or light overlanding.
The light duty Land Cruiser LC 250 Prado is a Land Cruiser every bit as much as the station wagon series 200. There are three series of land cruisers. Unfortunately, in the US we did not have access to their heavy duty or light duty series. They only sent us their station wagon series which frankly were built for interior space and comfort. Basically, the rest of the world received the utilitarian workhorses and we received the cushy station wagon. I am thrilled we’re finally getting the light duty Land Cruiser LC 250 Prado. It is a shame it is not branded with the full name. I am personally adding to my First Edition a LC 250 Prado below the Land Cruiser badge on the back. Not because it is less than, but simply because that is what it is.
The only heavy duty is the 40 and 70 series. The 55, 60 and 80 were all solid axles which puts them levels above any wishbone suspensions. The 80 however, being categorized as a Station Wagon, is the most Rugged SUV on the market then, ans would still hold that top spot to anything coming out since then to today. So we all know the 80 was over built and is every bit heavy duty as a 40 and 70 series.
the essence of land cruiser to me is a utilitarian, robust, reliable and simple vehicle. Something that can do almost anything you ask of it while lasting a very long time. In today's world, obviously the 70 is the embodiment of that name. other than that? the full size land cruisers (100, 200, 300) have been as much about comfort and luxury as they have about the other qualities. due to this, they are too expensive for the everyday person. When I look at the qualities I mentioned, one could argue that the 4Runner BETTER embodies the land cruiser qualities than the 200 or the 300 or the LX variants do. Its more simple and utilitarian and its reliability is on par if not better than the 200 (not to mention WAY cheaper on maintenance and WAY cheaper if something breaks). The full size LC's are more robust yes. My point is, land cruisers have become boutique items due to their cost and maintenance. The fact that the 250 is offering a spartan model (the 1958) in order to bring the price down a bit while improving fuel economy to ease cost of ownership is incredible news. IF they can deliver on the robustness and reliability, which obviously remains to be seen, then we have a true gem of a land cruiser on our hands. Until we know how the 250 will hold up and while the 70 is not sold in NA, the 5th gen 4Runner is the closest thing to a traditional land cruiser we have. And for those about to argue the 4Runner is nowhere near the quality of the LC, consider the 1GR-FE was used in the 70 series and the Aisin A750 trans was used in the 100 series.
The Gen 5 is definitely the best a 4Runner has to offer and is a tough Rig. But it doesn't hold the Land Cruiser badge..In fact the new Gen 6 4Runner will be same motor (never happened before in NA) and same trans and frame as the Land Cruiser. Yet it will not be a Lamd Cruiser nor hold the badge..Which then brings it full circle. If the 4 Runner is not a Land Cruiser, but effectively will be a minimal different mock up on the TNGA-F sharing same power train as a LC250, then that is further evidence that the LC250 is not a true Land Cruiser, it merely was adorned with the Badge.
Great Talk Jamie, I agree with everything you said, thanks again bro, keep them coming 👍👍.
I got my self a Land Cruiser 250 mid with premium package and all I can say I love it. Yes it’s a 4 banger with turbo and mild hybrid. It doesn’t really drive like a 4 banger. I love it. Yes wrangler is more capable off road but guess what my 2023 wrangler 3.6 engine blew at 6000 miles. Yes then I got 4Runner trd pro solar octane and I loved it. But I wanted something more modern. And I could be any happier.
Great video Jaime! I’ve owned a few Land Cruisers as well as a Prado… I mean FJ Cruiser, and I couldn’t agree more! 😂👍
Thanks for the video. That's why I got a 2014 200 w/100k mi and not a new 250
Awesome content, thanks so much. I live in Scotland. We had the 80 series, and also the 100 series available here. I drive a 2006 100 series Amazon with 256k miles on it. It's an incredible vehicle. We have a lot of snow and salt on the roads here - so the chassis is the main thing to look after along with regular servicing. Most 100s here are also diesel. The V8s are awesome, but the cost of fuel here is staggering! Thanks again.
Just to say: enjoying your video a lot man. You got your Vehicles well selected. What a great Collection!! And your vision: only the Heavy Duty is a real LC. Yeah!!’ Bit of jealousy I can’t hide 😉. Here in Europe, we have lots of diesels. I got both. One 100 series V8, one 80 HDJ ‘97. Daily the V8 (big berta) and the beast just for fun. Greets from the center of Europe. Thanks for sharing ….
Thanks for checking it out! You have 2 nice Cruisers on your hands!
The Japanese Accent MADE this video lmao.
The new LC 250 almost has the exact same specs as the series 80. Toyota knew they had mastered the platform looking back. Not even speaking of if it’s a real LC or not. Heck almost any vehicle built after Covid or 2022 is going to be an appliance for the most part.
Same special? you mean the 112 wheel base, which is same on all their SUVs? I will point out the biggest spec, that isn't the same...
Front Solid Axle.. for starters..
Love every single one of them!
I saw my first new 24’ 250 and thought it was a Honda or a Nissan until I got close.
Looked quite small because I was in my built 80.
Working on my 07 Sequoia today, it’s lightweight compared to a Land Cruiser.
I’ve decided to replace it with a 100. Thanks for the always excellent Cruiser videos.
My family owns 5 Cruisers and 15 other different types of Toyota’s! Yo Yota🔧
YT gives a couple lines then says read more...
So I saw this:
"I Saw my first new 24' 250 and thought it was a Ho... read more
LOL!
@@CruisingTheLand lol yep, Toyota definitely decided to go for the soccer moms and desk jockey types with the new cruiser, that is supposed to be inspired by the 80 series. Same marketing as each line since 60 series. Now with more of “bro, sweet 4Runner” vibe. Ugh, it is what it is.
th-cam.com/video/LhKibFIvtYQ/w-d-xo.htmlsi=woQQxcn_YqxvNuJY Money marketing.
@@greymatter6834 Here in Europe, the Prado is a soccer mom car. Real 4x4 guys run 80 Series, 70 Series and 100 and 200 Series here.
I think Toyota would have drawn far less ire from long term Land Cruiser fans if they were honest about what segment of the product line they were bringing to the table this time. The 250 is technically part of the Land Cruiser family, but a Prado is not the same branch of the family tree as other more robust models like the 70, 80, or 200.
Current off-road model lineups are making me increasingly happy I decided to put my dollars into refreshing my 80 series in LX450 guise.
Would love your opinion on the Dissent off road lc250. Checkout his walk around. Running 38s on stock upper & lower control arms, stock cv axels and stock steering rack. It also ran the rubicon.
I will be glad to.. I have done the Rubicon. It is an easy trail for Rock Crawlers, remember people did this trail decades ago with Jeeps on 33s.. Now people cruise though with 37s and 40s.. Rubicon is a scenic trail, but difficulty is low.. If you want a tough trail, go do Dusy Ershim. The LC250 would not make that one. 40s is a must.
@@CruisingTheLand I did it in 2018 with my 5th gen 4runner on 33s…I had a tough time. Glad for the experience though.
@myronhensel But you did it right! Imagine on 38s... much easier. Plus there are bypasses, and I don't think they did Soup Bowl.
@@CruisingTheLand Yea I think that would have been so much easier. Whats your opinion on the Grenadier?
I consider the 250 more FJ Cruiser-like not a Land Cruiser.
THIS
Here in Europe the LC 300 is not being sold either but the LC 250 is soon to arrive as a diesel. You can however buy both gas and diesel LC 300s here in the EU that were imported from Russia right before the Ukraine invasion in 2022. You end up having to pay an extra import fee though into the EU from Russia and so a top spec LC 300 will run you around 150k euro! :)))))
Woah that's a big surcharge!
I would love my 200 to be diesel.
I would pick diesel all day over the cylinder hybrid or the 6 cylinder twin turbo. Gotta wait 25 years to be able to import to the US, unless I make friends with a diplomat. The only way I would consider the LC250, is with a diesel Power Plant. But we will never get that in the US. So I will gold out first for a 2008 200 series diesel (2008 + 25 years = 2033) then the 300 series diesel.
@@CruisingTheLand Yep! Around an extra 30k euro! 😄 A guy has like a 2013 LC 200 diesel 4.5 liter on my street here in Bucharest. Sounds like a tank when he drives by! Yeah, Europe is getting the diesel LC 250. Might be pretty legit for what it is-a Prado! 🤣
The gx460 is built at the tahara plant in japan on the same assembly line as the ls lx and 200/300 series. What makes a land cruiser a land cruiser is the quality in materials and assembly of the vehicle so on that alone you can say that everything before 2024 built in that plant was meant to last 25 years with little to no upkeep . Which is the basis of the nameplate. So yes the prado IS A LAND CRUISER. The gx460 may be the same frame as the tacoma and 4 runner but those products ( tacoma and 4 runner ) also used normal quailty toyota parts and were built in the usa by americans that dont care about the pride of a Japanese car. So they are not the same.
Yes the Tahara plant is a good place to be born. So that bodes well for the Prado and GX. However those models are nit getting the same frame as the 200, and UPAs, LCAs and all other components. Land Cruiser is the flagship model, the Prado and GX never were, yet great reliable vehicles within their own. The LC250 is a Prado, which got the Land Cruiser badge in the Norrh American market. A little slight of hand on behalf of Toyota Motor Corp.
I've had my F?J62 for 36 years. Rock solid until the last 4 years. Time to get something new. I was pleasantly surprised that Toyota was bringing back the LC as "true to the Land Cruiser origins". In fact I put a deposit down on one sight unseen. But once I test drove one, I was sadly disappointed. Unfortunately it is not the rugged "truck" I am used to. it is true what you are saying, "it's just a Prado." IMHO, it's just another SUV.
So in short Toyota no longer makes a Land Cruiser? If all new models are made on same TNGF and not V8 then that should be true. But somehow other markets getting the "new" 70 series are getting a heavy duty LC are?. I get the argument, is just that saying a real LC is a 100 or a 200 just because of the V8 is like saying a 60/70/ and early 80s aren't. To me a real LC is and always will be a 40 and the 80 because that is what I know and because the 100 IFS scared me at the beginning and the 200 was unattainable but wont knock the new model simply for the 4 banger and its Prado roots. Thing is people who never owned anything but a 100/200 will believe they know what is a LC while ignoring LC roots and history. Anyhow, great video man.
not saying V8 makes it a Land Cruiser.. It's a Prado.
Example: Lexus came out in 1996 with the LX450.
80= LX450
100 = LX470
200 = LX570
300 = LX600
250 = GX550
Ah-Ha! GX is a Prado and also 4runner model.
So the 250 is a Prado, not a Land Cruiser.
The Land Cruiser has always been the absolute best Toyota has to offer. The new FJ Cruiser will be called a FJ Land Cruiser. Ain't no Land Cruiser past owner going out to buy a FJ Land Cruiser, unless it's for their mother or grand mother.
I test drove the 250. It was a nice drive. Pickup was a bit disappointing. But, most of all, I could not sit in the back and look out over the ocean. Too small.
Tail Gate is another Land Cruiser staple..
They cut lots of extras to drop it 30k. But Toyota is in business to sell vehicles and not appease us diehards.
So if the design team and engineers are given a 90k budget and told to build a Bad Ass 4x4 vehicle to go anywhere? well they did (200 series).
And now same team is given 60k budget to do the same thing (250.series), there will be limitations and materials that are cheaper and loss in some functuonality.
Oh yes, in the mid 1990s the 80 series was about 55-60k. That is the equivalent to 110k today with inflated dollars.
Rock crawling is a small community which Toyota as biggest car manufacturer is not interested. Instead touring and overlanding is done by many many people across the globe. Touring and comfort in same machine....
At least they put a rear locker in the LC250
@CruisingTheLand AT LEAST... LOL, wether that locke is made of cheap plastic..... We don't know.
In my part of the world the LC200 and 300 come with front and rear E-lockers on higher trims or as an option.
@abdallahh6153 what part are you in???
Southern California
I own a 2014 LX 570 with 170k. Every time I get the oil changed at my local toyota deal, they ask if I want to trade it in for the new land cruiser. I just laugh at them. 😂😂😂
I like the way the 250 looks and understand they wanted to use the name, only problem is they can't use Prado or even sport like range Rover did because it's the only one in the US so nothing to differentiate it with. They selling you a Whopper Jr instead of a Whopper, if I had the cash I go for the LX at least it comes with bacon and cheese
Yes, well put. Only we can't have it our way at this BK dealership.
I agree with what you say about the toyota "LC" 250. Got a question though. What do you use for a power source on an overland rig? Something like an ecoflow or a redarc system. Thanks
I have a couple Bluetti's with their 200w solar portable foldable panel. I feel the last couple years, power storage has got cheaper ($599 for 1800W) now 33 cents a watt, is a good deal. And solar panels let you stay off thr grid.
Unless you are buying the right hand ones plated somewhere in the US, you are importing them directly from Japan. Are you importing them? If you don't mind me asking, what state/city do you live in? Just curious
They are imported from Japan.
@@CruisingTheLand would you be willing to help me import my first one? I live in LA county.
@OhDearBabajan I didn't import these..Don't think I would have the patience..I bought these when they were already state side. Oh yeah, and CA doesn't want then. Must register out of state.
@@CruisingTheLand What are your thoughts on the 90 series prado? Why would you or wouldnt you buy one? Appreciate the feedback as im learning a ton.
Everytime I watch your videos, I want to unnecessarily buy another one.
lol, you and me both
I have an lx570 and it feels like a truck the 250s seem more like a 4 runner.
Great video!❤ Do you have a Land Cruiser 79 Series? In my country (South Africa) and Australia those are revered like Gods, especially the V8 versions! Always wondered why people in the States don't have them. I think they would really disrupt the truck market there
We never got those in the US.
And importing you must wait 25 years. I have a 1992 HZJ73 and love it!
@@CruisingTheLand 25 years???🤣 Someone in government is really stupid for coming up with that law. The 79 could really be a major contender in the midsize truck market. I think it’d kill the Tacoma (which we in SA don’t get😅).
@gopolanglekoto I sell the Big Country 4x4 racks, drawers and awnings out here in the US. Superior build quality, 2nd to none!
I’m not sure why but the LC250 just doesn’t do it for me. What’s funny is I’m sure some people think my rig isn’t an LC. I have a 2020 LX570. In my defense I’m outfitted it like a LC. My 18” evo corse darkarzeros are on order. I’ll pair them with Toyo open country. Also putting on Powerbrake D Line brakes later this month.
I had a 2008 LX570, and would get a 2016 facelift one again.. My wife went to the dark side and is driving a L405 Range Rover..At least its still V8. But in the shop as we speak.. lol
@@CruisingTheLandlol. Hate that for you.
What’s your favorite?
From the ones you own?
I love all my children.. for slightly different reasons.
Light Duty Land Cruiser = Prado
Look up this article posted by toyota "Toyota Land Cruiser history: Heavy and Light Duty edition"
its a land Cruiser but light duty as characterized by toyota.
It's is a 4runner...
4Runner = GX470
GX470 = Prado
Prado = LC250
All Land Cruisers are light duty
The Prado is not a Land Cruiser.
The heavy duty Land Cruisers are solely the 40 series and 70 series.
But the light duty Land Cruisers are far more robust than the 4Runner/GX460/GX470/Prado
which the LC250 is part of the Prado group. Extra Light Duty.
@@CruisingTheLand The 4Runner is the Toyota Hilux Surf not the Prado, The Hilux and Hilux Surf are not Land Cruisers. Since 1990 Toyota has been marketing the Land Cruiser Prado which is the same year the 80 series station wagon was introduced. So the Land Cruiser Prado has been a land cruiser just as long as the 80 series. So, I disagree with your truth bomb that the 250 series is not a Land Cruiser. It was built as a lighter duty version (no such thing as extra light duty) It was developed, in part, in order to compete with the highly successful Mitsubishi Pajero (which I owned that first generation Mitsubishi Montero the first year it was marketed in the US). The 250 is not a replacement for the series 200, it is a replacement for the J150. I have been waiting for Toyota to import the LC Prado since 1990. The upgrades from the 150 to the 250 are extensive and impressive. Toyota has evolved their three series of Land Cruisers to address the needs of the worldwide markets and differences in roads, emission requirements, CAFE standards, etc. As you mention several times, the 250 is stock built as more of an overlander not a rock crawler. And I am supremely confident that my Tahara built First Edition Land Cruiser 250 Prado will be capable as an overlander. If I could have purchased a LC or LC Prado before with these specifications I would have. 326 hp, 465 lb-ft torque, center and rear locking differentials, front stabilizer bar disconnect, 22/25 mpg, Full time 4wd, Rock rails and skid plates, off road cameras, roof rack, Lexus adjacent interior, 2400 watt inverter. For an overlander, I wish it had a larger gas tank, but otherwise couldn't be more excited with the specs and the actually driving experience so far.
if it can survive a third world country with less maintenance ,it deserves the name . sad to say but we got watered down Toyotas here in North America.
DO A VIDEO ON MY 105 1hz dude!
And I agree. I lived in Europe for a while (uk and Germany) prados aren’t land cruisers
Where are you located?
As the owner of a 40, 80, 200 and GX no its not. I love my 23 Gx Nori Green Blackline but the prado is still notthe same spec. Shut a door from an LX and GX b2b and tell me im wrong. The prado is still WAY superior to domestic offerings. I still say buy the GX over the new US LC especially to 23' for the 4.6 V8. Great engine, no turbo, no bearing issues. The 5.7 V8 with the 8 speed in my 2020 200 is my favorite powertrain though.
Sir i think you might be obsessed with Land Cruisers 😂
Me? Nahhhh. Why? do you have one for sale? How many miles? How much you want? Just name your price... I'll take it.
@@CruisingTheLand haha man I love your content! I have a 2002 100 Series with 200k miles that's still kicking. Your videos have persuaded me to not only use it as a daily but I'm going to attempt to fully restore this truck to get it looking brand new and eventually pass it down to my daughter as her first car in 13 or so years if we arent using flying cars by then 🚗
Great vid and accent. LOL😊
Do you have wheel spacers on Otis? Seems like the wheels poke out a smidget? Also, what size tires, 315s?
Yes, I have the Spidertrax, the only spacer I would recommend. Gives the perfect poke for that inset OEM wheel stance
@@CruisingTheLandisn't that bad for our wheel bearings? What size wheel spacers, 1.25" or 2"?
Jamie, what’s your daily driver?
I rotate them..
The diesel version of the FJ40 is BJ40, not “H”
True that. 'B' is for the 4 cyl diesel engine and 'H' is for the 6 cyl diesel engine and 'VD' is for the 8 cyl Diesel engine.
As I mentioned, I dont do post edits, but also welcome the corrections.
There’s a HJ45, using the 2H aspirated diesel.
My LX470 is not a Land Cruiser? 😢 that darn AHC..😂
Lol... It can be! Just remove the AHC!! I have had plenty of 100s and 470s and truth be known in 2006 on the Land Cruiser VVTi model they had AHC optioned on some of them. I believe 2007 too. But they too can get the sex change and go Shock and coil.
@@CruisingTheLand My LX470 already identifies as a Land Cruiser. 🤣
@@huskynoob7881 Lol! love it!
@@CruisingTheLand Oh I see. My mechanic warned me that when my "Lexus suspension" on my 2006 LC goes out, I should change to the "other" option. I'm assuming that's the "shock and coil".
I will play devil's advocate. Youre kind of wrong about the 250. Couple of years ago, there was a huge difference between a 200 and a 150 series. Today a 250 and a 300 is the same chassis. Toyota moved the Prado and its sibblings up in durability but you can also argue a the 300 series moved down the durability ladder. Sure the 300 has 2 more extra bump stops, but its the same chassis. So either the 250 is more of a regular land cruiser or the 300 is now lighter duty than the 200.
Ironically, I'd trust the 250 4banger way more than the 300. I do not trust that TT V6 one bit. Its a dumpster fire. Even if Toyota addresses reliability concerns, its a nightmare to work on and the aluminum panels is proving to be a nuisance in the middle east where they've been having issues with replacements since aluminum isnt as repair friendly as steel.
A youtuber made an excellent point about TNGA-F. He said the new platform killed the GX, 4Runner and Prado because they no longer have their own platform.
I would say the TNGA-F killed the Land Cruiser because it shares it with its weaker sibling. Now a chassis that is shared, doesnt mean all the components are the same on said chassis. Like the Gladiator and the Mojave model, same chassis design but the Mojave has a thick gauge frame, about 30%, so it can be launched in the desert.
As for the 300, I would say rhe diesel is the way to go. But overall, the 200 is more robust than the 250. I actually had alot more to share, which would be more of a 200 vs 250. Rhe 30k difference in price, means savings had to be made on many components, trust me.
@CruisingTheLand I can totally believe you when you say the 200 is more robust. Everytime I drive a 200, it feels like it's made from a solid piece of granite. My cousin test drove a 300 when they first hit the market and he said it was like driving a corolla. He settled for a LX570 instead.
*You must be one of those california cosplay Fauxverlanders*
Hey Uncle Fjester... You know you can cure your frustration by selling your FJ Cruiser and buying a real Land Cruiser?
I see a defender sitting in your garage
Yes, a 1994 300TDI Defender 90. Got a couple videos of it on my channel.
Nice we had 1988 defenders county 110 back home
Is is not a land cruiser. The 250 is a prado. And the 300 is the land cruiser(not sold in the us) The 250 in europe is a turbo diesel . In the us we always get the gas motors.
Yep.. Diesel is huge in these Land Cruisers because you get power and efficiency. I know, I have those 3 JDM Diesels with 1HZ, 12HT, 1HD-FT and I love them!
@CruisingTheLand I just came back from Europe last week and rented a passat diesel there. Spent about 85.00 in diesel in 1 month driving everyday. Land cruisers are a rare sight where I was. But saw 3 nice built prados. The 300 series are way expensive. They look nice. But rather have an 80 or 100 diesel. The 250 in the US is actually shorter than the new 4runner.
My 470 has LC suspension.
Brilliant! Yes, when removing the AHC, you can go with all the Land Cruiser aftermarket options.
You are going to start a war 😂
Well, the 200, 100 and 80 series will get the high ground naturally, and that's already a winning position.
For Fj, if you don't respect and honour Toyota soo called underpower motors and end up changing the heart. Mate you are not Land Cruiser enthusiast...😂
I am sure you have never rock crawled. In order to do that to the Extreme, you need big tire and clearance. Hence the 40" Trepadors aired down to 4psi. The 1F or 2F does not power that setup. Even a chevy 350 won't, because you need fuel injection for the different pitch and angles you will encounter. Everything is Toyota on that FJ40 except the engine. I will never make any excuses, that is the proper engine for that set up and purpose. If it was a beach cruiser on 33s, then sure I'd keep original motor. But this beast is NOT a beach cruiser.
250 is Prado, 300 is Land Cruiser. Why you don't buy a 300 and compare? You have all Land Cruisers but you are comparing all these to Prado.
Prado is sort of light duty and that is 250 series.
Please buy a 300 series and comparing era's. That would be better.
I would but the 300 is not available in the US. We are only being force fed the 250.. Unless I get a LX600, which is available in the US and is a 120k 300 series.
Respectfully disagree.
Hi Ed. I have watched many of your videos and builds on 200 series. Always top notch. I understand that as a Toyota Dealer, you obviously play with the cards Toyota Motor Corp deals you..And they held back the 300 series (True Land Cruiser badge worthiness) So instead they are giving you the Prado and badging it a Land Cruiser. Still a great Rig, but it is not the top dog that Toyota produces. That's the 300. And now they are coming out with the FJ Cruiser successor, but this time they will call it the FJ Land Cruiser.. which is a shame.
FJ Cruiser Guys want to be Land Cruiser guys. But Land Cruiser Guys do not want to be FJ Cruiser Guys. Same for Prado. That Pradoe LC250 will mostly be purchased to new customers in the Land Cruiser market and 4Runner owners.
The engineer accent...I'm 💀 The new Land Cruiser is definitely not a true Land Cruiser. It's a fancy 4runner. I have an 80 and a 5th gen t4r. There's a difference