Master of Africa remastered: The new Land Cruiser 200

The name Land Cruiser evokes images of great open plains, towering sand dunes and imposing cliff faces.

The Land Cruiser range has earned the enviable title of Master of Africa, as its legendary go-anywhere ability has been proven time and again across numerous terrains.

The new 2015 Land Cruiser 200 builds upon the rock solid foundation of its predecessors, now with even more technological advancements, which makes this the best and most capable Land Cruiser ever.

The first thing to notice about the new Land Cruiser 200 is its powerful and prominent front end.There is a new large chrome grille with completely restyled headlight clusters. The grille comprises two parts, an upper half and lower half.

The headlights feature Bi-LED technology on the VX models which provides superior illumination and visibility as well as low energy consumption. An Auto High Beam feature is also incorporated which autonomously switches between low and high beam depending on the level of surrounding light, as measured by the vehicle’s on-board sensors.

The LED daytime running lights are integrated in the lower part of the headlights with the LED fog lamps positioned at the edge of the lower air-dam and framed by stylish chrome surrounds.

The side profile too has been sharpened, creating a more solid appearance while the rear bumper sight lines have been raised to form a flowing design.

The VX models comes with 18-inch alloy wheels whilst the GX models has 17-inch alloys.

The most significant change to the rear-end has been brought to the rear light clusters, which have been extended and enlarged.

The lower grade GX utilises practical ‘barn-doors’ for ease of loading, with the VX adopting the traditional top-hinged rear door for a more sophisticated look.

Signalling the go-anywhere character of the GX, it also features a snorkel mounted on the driver side of the A-pillar to overcome water obstacles the GX may encounter. The VX models are further distinguished by a rear roof spoiler as well as a chrome door and window trim garnish, adding touches of exclusivity.

A standout feature of the Land Cruiser 200 is its uncanny ability to house occupants in lavish comfort whilst traversing the most demanding terrain.

The new model features a revised interior design, managing to strike a balance between style, luxury and simplicity.

The instrumentation and controls have been redesigned and regrouped to improve ergonomics and allow for easier operation.

All the driving-related controls have been moved to a newly designed console surrounding the gear lever with the switch gear that exudes a sense of solidity.

A nine-speaker Electro Multi-Vision (EMV) audio system with a high clarity nine-inch display takes centre stage on VX models, framed by stylish Piano Black trim.

The GX models are fitted with a touchscreen audio system, with both models featuring Satellite Navigation.

Forming the link between man and machine is a robust four-spoke steering wheel, with VX models receiving leather cladding and wood inserts.

A full colour TFT Multi-Information Display feeds back vital vehicle information from various functions to the driver, which includes trip information, fuel economy, vehicle mode, audio system info and for the bluetooth display.

The GX models are specified with a durable grey fabric interior while VX customers have the choice of two classy leather interiors.

Luxurious wood accents round off the sophisticated cabin.

The Land Cruiser 200 is equipped with a number of technologically advanced systems and features to equip it with watertight off-road capabilities.

An all-new advanced Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) system takes the lead role in maximising performance both on and off the road.

This system integrates with the A-TRAC traction control system and tailors the vehicle’s performance to suit the terrain or obstacle.

Providing another feature is the Multi-Terrain Monitor (MTM) which relays visuals of the surrounding environment back to the driver, allowing them to traverse obstacles with far greater ease.

The system uses four cameras (front, side mirrors and rear), to provide a 360 degree view of the vehicle surrounds. It is automatically activated when the MTS is operational.

A unique feature is the underfloor view, where the ground surface is recorded prior to the vehicle passing over it, thus creating a forward looking image. This feature is particularly useful for determining wheel and under-body position in rocky and deep sand conditions.

The multiple cameras are also extremely useful for parking situations and as such, the system also provides parking assistance with multiple modes to assist the driver.

On the active safety front, a full complement of driver support systems are fitted which include:

• ABS;

• EBD; and

• vehicle stability control.

The GX models are fitted with eight airbags, with VX versions adding rear side airbags to take the tally up to ten. Providing further assistance to drivers is Lane Departure Alert, which warns the driver when they cross lanes without signalling the intention to do so. When activated, the system notifies the driver with an illustration in the multi-information display as well as an audible alert.

The tried and tested 4.5 litre turbo diesel engine featuring eight cylinders in a V-configuration produces 173 kW of power at 3200 rpm. Torque delivery is 615 Nm available from as low as 1800rpm. The power unit is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

A five-year or 90 000 km service plan is included with the purchase of the vehicle along with a three-year or 100 000 km warranty.

The model line-up and pricing are as follow:

• Toyota Land Cruiser 200 4.5 GX 6AT – R850 000;

• Toyota Land Cruiser 200 4.5 VX 6AT – R1 141 700.