Toyota Land Cruiser gets a new powertrain

The Toyota Land Cruiser is powering into a new era with the adoption of its first electrified drivetrain. The new Land Cruiser Hybrid 48V introduces a mild hybrid system that delivers a smoother, more comfortable performance both on and off-road.

The Hybrid 48V system combines Land Cruiser's existing 2.8-litre engine and eight-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission with an electric motor-generator, lithium-ion hybrid battery and a DC-DC power converter. The components are designed and positioned to withstand harsh environments, so the vehicle's capabilities are undiminished - including its 700mm water wading depth.

The latest Land Cruiser, launched in late 2024, is built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) body-on-frame platform

Being more compact than the Toyota full hybrid system, it can be more easily fitted to existing powertrains without requiring significant redesigns or re-engineering. Thanks to this, the Hybrid 48V powertrain was also recently introduced to the new Toyota Hilux.

The Hybrid 48V system also enables a quicker and quieter engine stop-start performance with less shock, making for an easier and more comfortable drive in traffic.

All European Land Cruiser models will adopt the Hybrid 48V system. European markets will also be opening their order books shortly, with the first models expected to be with customers from the end of 2025.