The all-new 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser, now in its seventh generation, continues to enhance its reputation for quality, durability and reliability. This sport utility vehicle is Cruiser by name, Cruiser by nature, running on road and primitive trail in any kind of weather, with absolute comfort and security. It can tow up to 8,500 pounds with the right equipment. The Land Cruiser is now bigger and stronger; and gives more value than ever before.

The Toyota Land Cruiser is powered by an all-new 5.7-liter (346 cid), DOHC, V-8 engine known as the 3UR-FE. The engine uses electronic fuel injection; Toyota direct ignition; four valves per cylinder; and a variable-length intake tract to generate 381 horsepower at 5,600 rpm, with 401 pound-feet of torque at 3,600 rpm. In addition it has variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i); an acoustic controlled induction system (ACIS); electronic throttle control system with intelligence (ETCS-i); and air injection. The city fuel economy of 13 mpg may leave the environmentally conscious gasping for breath, but quality and capability don't come cheap.

The thick, four-slat grille; horizontal headlights; and insignia/license-plate depression in the rear drop-gate give the Toyota Land Cruiser its very distinctive style. Character lines have been given a new sweep and feel, especially in the front and in the area around the rear door handles; while the back door panels have been styled to suggest strength. Because of its iconic exterior design, Land Cruisers never seem to look dated or to go out of style. The interior is optimized for comfort, security and safety of driver and passengers. But limited cargo space may leave buyers a little disappointed. The functionality of the third-row seat is also a bit of a letdown.

The Toyota Land Cruiser comes replete with a wide variety of systems designed for the safety and security of driver and passengers. It has Lexus trick, the kinetic dynamic suspension system (KDSS). And like all Toyota SUVs, it comes standard with the star safety system, which includes anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist; vehicle stability control and active traction control. The model also gets crawl control, which applies throttle and brakes to maintain a uniform low speed suitable for rough roads. However, ground clearance and approach, departure and break-over angles have all been reduced slightly on the new model.