Toyota Land Cruiser (LC300) Makes Its European Debut

Toyota has brought the most powerful Land Cruiser ever to Europe, but contrary to expectations, it won’t be available in most markets. The hybrid version of the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 model is intended exclusively for selected countries in Eastern Europe, while the western part of the continent remains without this powerful SUV.

After debuting in the Middle East last year, the electrified Land Cruiser 300 is now going on limited European sales. In the rest of Europe, the offer is not changing for now. Western European markets are still directed to the more luxurious Lexus LX or the slightly smaller Land Cruiser 250, as the classic Land Cruiser 300 with a robust chassis is still not intended for those regions.

The hybrid Land Cruiser 300 is also the most powerful version of this model to date. The total power is 457 hp and 790 Nm. The powertrain consists of a 3.5-liter V6 engine with two turbochargers and an electric motor, located between the internal combustion engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission, which transmits power to all four wheels.

According to Toyota’s data, this “performance hybrid” offers up to 40 percent better acceleration compared to the classic version with a 3.3-liter twin-turbo diesel engine. The electric motor improves throttle response and provides a smoother power delivery, and the vehicle can drive only on electricity for a short time, at speeds of up to 30 km/h.

The battery is housed in a waterproof housing, so all off-road capabilities are retained, including passing through water up to 700 mm deep. Toyota points out that the hybrid has been thoroughly tested in demanding conditions around the world and that there is no compromise when it comes to durability off paved roads.

The model comes with electric power steering for better precision and control, and complete off-road technology such as the Multi-Terrain Select system, Crawl Control, Downhill Assist Control, and Multi-Terrain Monitor has been retained.

In European markets, the Land Cruiser 300 Hybrid will be available in three versions: VX, ZX, and GR Sport. All versions come with five seats, without the possibility of a third row.

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