Land Cruiser May Return In Spirit Via New Lexus Model
Though the LX is based on the Land Cruiser, a new replacement may be coming.
Proper Replacement?
When Toyota announced that it was killing off the legendary Land Cruiser some weeks ago, the news was both shocking and not terribly surprising. After all, this is a niche vehicle that sells in small numbers. Regardless, those that covet its bones can still buy them in the form of the Lexus LX. However, if a report from Automotive News proves to be true, Lexus may soon be the brand that sells the Land Cruiser's actual replacement as a brand new model.
Photos: Toyota
Room to Grow
Jack Hollis, head of Toyota Motor North America automotive operations, remarked to AN that Lexus would be "silly" not to expand its offerings to cater to the exploding popularity of off-road-focused SUVs and crossovers. He also acknowledged that there is room in the current Lexus lineup for a proper Land Cruiser replacement.
Photos: Toyota
Thirst for SUVs
Lexus head Andrew Gilleland also noted that consumers have a "thirst" for body-on-frame off-road SUVs, and confirmed that the automaker is "exploring" the idea of making at least one of them. He also acknowledged that the incredible interest surrounding the new Ford Bronco got the automaker's attention.
Photos: Toyota
Conflicting Reports
As far as what the next Land Cruiser might look like, well, there are a lot of conflicting reports floating around at the moment. Some believe it will ditch its V8 power for a V6 lineup, including a hybrid offering. There's also a lot of debate over whether it will remain a luxurious vehicle or move toward a more rugged presentation.
Photos: Toyota
One or the Other
If Lexus is to be the one that sells the next Land Cruiser or its replacement, it would obviously need to lean toward the luxury side of things. But of course, Toyota could opt to do what it did with the LX and Land Cruiser, and sell two different variations to cater to two different kinds of customers.
Photos: Toyota
Retro Revival
Personally, we'd like to see the Land Cruiser come back with a decidedly retro flair, just like the new Bronco. It could be sold as a more bare-bones off-roader with a Toyota badge, and as a more luxurious version in the Lexus lineup. Either way, we can't imagine customers not lining up a mile deep for a new Land Cruiser that looks a lot like the old FJ.
Photos: Toyota
One Question
For now, however, we'll just have to wait and see what Toyota has up its sleeve. We know that it's aware of what customers want. The question now is, will they actually build something that satisfies those desires, or will they choose to go a more conservative route?
Photos: Toyota
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