The sole luxury SUV from Toyota is an older model that
is still built in Japan. If you're not really familiar with
the Land Cruiser, think of Toyota's American-made Sequoia.
The Land Cruiser is just a little bit smaller, though it
has more standard features and a higher price tag.
Generally, Toyota reserves luxury vehicles for Lexus, its
upscale division. Not so with the savvy 2004 Toyota Land
Cruiser. However, the Lexus LX 470 is a more luxurious version
of the Land Cruiser, taking the latter's package and increasing
the refinement.
An optional rearview TV camera is the only change for this
year's Land Cruiser.
Available Models
The 2004 Toyota Land Cruiser is offered in one base trim.
Interior Features
The four-door 2004 Toyota Land Cruiser is able to seat up
to eight passengers. Its roominess is exemplified with a
90.8 cubic foot interior.
Luxury class models really distinguish themselves from
other, less-costly vehicles by the sheer number of interior
appointments they receive. With the Toyota Land Cruiser,
the standard package includes a power sunroof, front and
rear air conditioning with front and rear automatic climate
controls, leather upholstery, heated front bucket seats
with power lumbar support and an in-dash 6-disc CD changer.
The new TV camera is included with a navigation system.
It displays a rear view on the navigation screen when Reverse
is selected. The navigation system also shows DVDs on its
in-dash screen with the transmission in Park.
Exterior Features
Sleek yet powerful and rugged-looking, the 2004 Toyota Land
Cruiser doesn't hide its luxury status or its adventurous
nature. Standard exterior features include skid plates,
a full-size spare tire and alloy wheels. A tow hitch receiver
is optional.
Performance
The Toyota Land Cruiser is strong, and it handles very well
for a larger vehicle. It has speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion
steering, which adjusts the feel of the wheel depending
on the speed of the SUV. Limited-slip center differential
and traction control are also part of the engineering package.
Under the hood is a rugged 4.7-liter dual-overhead-cam
V8 engine. It delivers 235 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 320
lb-ft of torque at 3400 rpm.
Toyota's all-wheel drive system is standard with the 2004
Land Cruiser. 5-speed automatic is the sole transmission
offered.
Safety and Security
The 2004 Toyota Land Cruiser has antilock 4-wheel disc brakes
with brake assist for quick, responsive stops. Other safety
features include an antiskid system and fog lights. Front
side airbags are found on the options list.
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