Toyota Land Cruiser 300 (J300) (2021 – 2025)

Reliability score : 8.6/10

The Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series (J300) represents a monumental shift for the legendary nameplate. Introduced in 2021, it replaces the venerable 200 Series after a 14-year run. Built on the new body-on-frame TNGA-F platform, the J300 sheds roughly 200 kg (440 lbs) while increasing structural rigidity by 20%. The most significant change is the complete abandonment of V8 engines in favor of highly advanced, twin-turbocharged V6 powertrains (both petrol and diesel), aiming to improve fuel efficiency and emissions without sacrificing the low-end torque essential for off-roading. It also introduces the E-KDSS (Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System) for unparalleled wheel articulation. While not sold in North America (which receives its luxury twin, the Lexus LX600, and the smaller Land

✅ Strengths

Unmatched off-road capability (especially with E-KDSS and front/rear lockers)
Exceptional build quality and interior material durability
Significant weight reduction improves handling and braking over the J200
F33A-FTV diesel engine offers massive torque (700 Nm) and great range
Retains phenomenal resale value globally

⚠️ Weaknesses

V35A-FTS engine debris recall casts a shadow on early petrol models
Extremely high purchase price and long waiting lists (up to 4 years in Japan initially)
Third-row seats fold flat into the floor but raise the cargo floor height significantly
Infotainment system, while improved, still lags behind European luxury rivals
High risk of theft in many global markets

🎯 Verdict

The Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series successfully brings the icon into the modern era. The chassis improvements, weight reduction, and interior upgrades make it vastly superior to the 200 Series on the road, while E-KDSS ensures it remains unstoppable off-road. Buying Advice: - If you are buying the 3.3L Diesel (F33A-FTV), it is a fantastic choice for touring and towing. Just ensure it gets regular highway use to keep the DPF clean. - If you are looking at the 3.5L Petrol (V35A-FTS), exercise caution with 2021-2023 models. Verify with Toyota if the specific VIN is cleared of the engine machining debris issue. If buying new (2024+), the issue has been resolved at the factory. - For absolute, end-of-the-world reliability, the Middle-Eastern market 4.0L V6 (1GR-FE) remains the undisputed, albeit slow, champion.