2009 Toyota Land Cruiser Review

The 2009 Toyota Land Cruiser retains all of the adaptability, elegance, and luxury as it had in the prior model year. However, some buyers will have a difficult time overcoming the full-size SUV's poor fuel economy. Also, while the Land Cruiser is packed full of innovative and practical features, it is only available in one trim level. That trim offers a single engine and transmission choice as well. Nevertheless, the 2009 Land Cruiser has generous power, and the available upgrade package fills the model with plenty of gadgetry. But, some buyers might expect the upgrade package to be included with such a high intro price of $64,755.

Inside, consumers should be pleased with the standard features like the leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated audio controls. Other elements include a tilt/slide power moonroof, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, the HomeLink universal transceiver, and push-button start. The HomeLink system allows Land Cruiser owners to sync their garage door, lighting, and security systems to the SUV, so the home is alerted at the driver's arrival. High-tech features include a premium six-disc in-dash CD changer with fourteen speakers throughout the Toyota Land Cruiser, power-adjustable and heated front leather-trimmed seating, and quad-zone automatic climate control. The 2009 Toyota's climate control system is CFC-free, which means that it does not emit carbons that can damage the ozone layer.

Under the hood, the Land Cruiser is equipped with a powerful 381 horsepower 5.7L DOHC V8. Variable Valve Timing controls the exhaust, so that the SUV achieves peak performance while saving on fuel. However, this does not seem to make much of dent on the EPA's estimated fuel rating of 13 city MPG and 18 highway MPG. However, the model is ranked as an ultra-low emissions vehicle, so eco-conscious buyers could be appeased. The six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with overdrive has a built-in system that detects whether the vehicle is going uphill or downhill. It will automatically shift accordingly based on the Land Cruiser's position. The model is also fitted with a full-time four-wheel drive system that allows it to adapt to even the most demanding driving conditions.

Safety is a high priority in the 2009 Land Cruiser. Standard traction control, vehicle stability control, anti-lock brakes, and a tire pressure monitoring system are featured. The tire pressure monitoring system includes a digital readout located in the instrument cluster, which will warn drivers if a tire has too little or too much pressure. An anti-theft system is also included and will automatically immobilize the engine in the event of a break-in.

Altogether, the 2009 Toyota Land Cruiser is a commanding piece of machinery. However, its high price tag could be enough to deter even the most affluent buyers. Not only that, without a standard navigation system or Bluetooth connectivity, the Land Cruiser falls flat compared to other luxury SUVs. Buyers looking for a status symbol as much as an impressive vehicle will find a match in the 2009 Land Cruiser.