The Land Cruiser 200 remains the unquestionable conqueror of the African landscape.
Combining a large 7-seater SUV configuration, legendary Land Cruiser off-road credentials, rugged ladder-frame construction and robust V8 diesel engine – the ‘Cruiser, as it’s affectionately known in 4x4 circles, is a key player in the large-SUV market segment.
Off-road prowess
Notching up an average of 100 units per month on a regular basis, the Land Cruiser 200 has certainly found favour with South African motorists seeking a large SUV with indisputable off-road prowess.
READ: This Rob Green-fettled Land Cruiser has close to 1000Nm
For 2018, the pinnacle of the Land Cruiser family tree has received some subtle tweaks, staying true to the proven formula.
GX-R
As before two grade options are offered; the utility-focused entry-level model has been rebadged as GX-R (GX of old) - to align the naming convention with its luxurious VX-R sibling.
Image: Motorpress
Both grades are powered by a 4.5-litre V8 turbodiesel engine with outputs of 195kW @ 3400rpm and 650Nm @ 1600 - 2600rpm.
VX-R
Notable changes to the VX-R model are mostly found at the front of the vehicle. A new front grille design features two prominent horizontal slats intersecting the large grille opening in an east-west fashion – replacing the previously utilised multi-slat design.
Image: Motorpress
A smoked treatment has been applied to the Bi-LED headlamps and LED fog lamps, for enhanced visual differentiation. The headlamps themselves include Auto High Beam functionality, super bright LED illumination and Daytime Running Lights (DRL).
A new Brown interior trim colour has been made available, now affording VX-R buyers a selection of three interior palettes – Beige, Black and Brown.
The VX-R model continues to boast an impressive standard specification list, which includes the following:
• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Auto-dimming mirrors
• Integrated tow hitch
• Leather interior
• Power-adjustable front seats
• 3-zone climate control
• Front ventilated seats
• Heated seats (1st and 2nd row)
• ‘Coolbox’
• Optitron instrumentation
• Surround-view cameras
• Satellite Navigation and touchscreen infotainment
• Smart Entry
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring
• Multi-Terrain Select (switchable off-road driving modes)
• Active Traction Control (A-TRAC)
• Crawl Control
• Full suite of electronic driving aids including Lane Keeping system and 10 airbags
Model Line-up & Pricing
Peace of Mind
All Land Cruiser 200’s come standard with a 9-services/90 000km service plan (intervals are pegged at 12 months/10 000km) and 3-year/100 000km warranty.
Image: Motorpress
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