Perhaps it was inevitable, but the Toyota Land Cruiser isn’t immune from electrification. A few months ago, the hybrid version made its world premiere in the Middle East, using the same system as the Lexus LX700h. But it seems that the popular luxury SUV’s electrification push isn’t over.
A report from Japan has claimed that the Land Cruiser 300 Series will get a plug-in hybrid version. If true, it could be the one of the first ladder-frame luxury SUV with this sort of powertrain. More notably, its rival, the Nissan Patrol, has no electrified version.
OTHER STORIES YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED:
Watch: IShowSpeed checks out Devin Booker’s vintage Chevrolet collection
Motorists using temporary plates will be fined P5,000 starting Nov. 1
This piece of information was uncovered by Japanese motoring website, Creative311. The site said that the SUV will utilize the same twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 as the Land Cruiser Hybrid. There’s a mention of a larger battery pack, as well as a single motor.
As it is, the Toyota Land Cruiser Hybrid has a total system output of 457hp and 790Nm of torque. It’s hard to determine if the addition of a plug-in system will boost power, but the figures mentioned are pretty strong as they are. If anything, it adds an even greater usability factor for those looking for a large and somewhat fuel-efficient off-roader.
There are some possible drawbacks mention by Creative311. The addition of a larger battery might mean the Land Cruiser will lose the third-row seats. It’s either that or the seats remain but the cargo capacity will be compromised.
It’s all speculation for now, but we wouldn’t be totally surprised if Toyota does push through with it if the company is already making plans to build it. At the same time, this report also opens up the possibility of a plug-in hybrid version of the Land Cruiser’s twin, the Lexus LX. We’ll keep our eyes peeled for any updates. Until then, watch this space.
