The Toyota Land Cruiser Commercial has arrived, and it’s making waves as a potentially smarter, more affordable take on the legendary 4×4. While the passenger version commands a hefty price tag, this commercial variant comes in at nearly half that cost, sparking questions about what you gain and lose for the savings.
Key Takeaways
- The Commercial Land Cruiser offers the same robust 2.8L diesel engine, 3.5-tonne towing capacity, and rugged ladder-frame chassis as the passenger model.
- It significantly undercuts the passenger version in price, making it a more accessible option.
- Despite being a commercial vehicle, it retains much of the iconic Land Cruiser’s off-road prowess.
- Tax advantages, like significantly lower road tax, make it an attractive proposition for businesses.
A Familiar Face, A Different Purpose
From the outside, the Commercial Land Cruiser looks remarkably similar to its passenger counterpart. The "champagne gold" color, alloy wheels, and durable exterior bits are all present. Even the distinctive "retro looking" Toyota nose, a nod to earlier generations, is here. While you don’t get the round headlights (reserved for a limited edition passenger model), the crisp LED lights, ample ground clearance, and scuff plates show it’s still ready for adventure. The dual-opening rear door, allowing for quick access or a full swing-open, adds to its practicality. Inside, the commercial version is stripped back but still functional, featuring a bulkhead, tethering hooks for securing cargo, and even a three-pin plug for powering tools. Interestingly, many of the creature comforts like door bins and grab handles remain, blurring the lines between workhorse and everyday vehicle.
What’s Lost for the Savings?
To achieve its lower price point, some features have been removed. The most noticeable difference is the seating – you lose five seats compared to the passenger version. On the tech front, while you still get essentials like Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a reversing camera, some advanced features are gone. The passenger version’s multi-terrain monitor cameras, offering views of the terrain ahead, are absent. Similarly, some of the specialized off-road drive modes found in the passenger model are replaced with simpler Eco, Sport, and Normal settings. The stabilizer bar, which allows for more independent wheel articulation, has been removed, though high and low ratio gears and diff locks remain. The handy cooler box under the armrest is also missing, a small but perhaps missed convenience. The digital mirror is another feature that doesn’t make the cut.
Off-Road Prowess Remains
Despite the stripped-back interior, the Commercial Land Cruiser doesn’t compromise on its legendary off-road capability. The ladder-frame chassis, 2.8L diesel engine with ample torque, and robust suspension are all present. Features like Crawl Control and Hill Descent Assist (DAC) are still onboard, making challenging terrain manageable. While the specialized drive modes are fewer, the core mechanicals that make a Land Cruiser a Land Cruiser are still there. The vehicle tackles steep inclines and descents with confidence, maintaining grip and control. The approach angle of 32°, ground clearance over 200 mm, and wading depth of 700 mm mean it can handle serious off-road conditions. Even with road tires, it proves surprisingly capable, demonstrating the inherent strength of its design.
On-Road Manners and Practicality
On the road, the Commercial Land Cruiser offers a refined experience, especially considering its rugged nature. The 2.8L diesel engine, while not the most powerful, provides plenty of torque and feels a bit punchier in this lighter commercial guise. The gearbox is responsive, and while the engine can be a bit noisy under load, it’s quiet when cruising. The vehicle feels stable, even in crosswinds, and planted on the road. Fuel economy is respectable, around 10L per 100 km without towing. Toyota’s reputation for reliability is a significant draw, and this commercial version benefits from it. The tax advantages are substantial, with road tax costing a fraction of the passenger model (€333 vs. €2,400), and the ability to claim back VAT and the vehicle price makes it a financially smart choice for businesses.
The Smart Buy for 2025?
Ireland is a major market for commercial Land Cruisers, and this new version aims to continue that trend. While it’s lost some creature comforts and advanced tech, the core Land Cruiser DNA – its toughness, reliability, and off-road capability – remains intact. The significant price difference, coupled with the tax benefits, makes a compelling case for the commercial model. For builders, farmers, vets, or anyone needing a dependable, go-anywhere vehicle without the luxury trimmings, this Land Cruiser Commercial might just be the most sensible and best-value option available. It’s a testament to Toyota’s ability to offer a rugged, capable machine that still makes a lot of sense, even with a few less frills.