Story & photos by Randy S. Peregrino
THE current-generation Land Cruiser 200 (LC200) has progressed to an even better form, as Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) recently unveiled the updated version of its legendary flagship sport-utility vehicle (SUV).
Renowned for its superb reliability, absolute quality and rich legacy, the LC200 now comes in two options: the Standard and the LC200 Premium with advanced technological features and appealing aesthetics.
“The vehicle that we will launch today has the longest-running history in Toyota’s global lineup. In the Philippines it was first introduced in 1995, and has always been regarded for its excellent reliability and unquestionable premium and heritage. Seen as a “status vehicle,” one cannot deny that this Toyota SUV exudes every bit of luxury, elegance and power. That is why today, you will witness the new Land Cruiser 200 that has been built to rule every land!” said TMP President Michinobu Sugata during his introductory remarks.
“In the spirit of ‘Always Better Cars,’ we are committed in constantly bringing new and exciting changes to delight our customers. Although this model is not yet considered a new generation, its major changes make it an all-new model,” Sugata added.
The LC200’s fascia includes a pronounced chrome grille united with the strikingly fresh BI-LED (light-emitting diode) headlamps with daylight running lights, while the bolder front bumper has a color-keyed overrider and LED fog lamps. There are also newly sculpted contours; character lines the sweep from the hood; bulging flares in the flanks embellished with the signature body stripes decal and; a set of 18-inch multispoked alloy wheels. At the rear, modern combination tail lights complement the stretched and overlapping chrome garnish. And with the bigger dimension, the exterior enhancements boast of a more aggressive, yet elegant, look and sportier stance.
Inside the cabin, the distinguished aura of sophistication is further substantiated with neoteric center cluster layout; power tilt/telescopic steering wheel with embedded controls; and meter-gauge cluster with the up-to-date 4.2-inch multi-information display. The LC200 Premium also comes with an Audio-Video Navigation System and a four-zone automatic climate control. Additionally, eight-way power-controlled seats are enveloped with the finest leather materials for comfort, while the cool box storage and illuminated door scuff are present in both options. The LC200 is endowed with various cutting-edge functions, such as Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (A-TRC), Hill-Climb Assist (HAC) and Multiterrain Select, to name a few. But the most compelling add-on is the “CRAWL” operation—the first and only driver-assist system in its class, which makes rides safer and definitely easier, together with the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS).
Powering both LC200 editions is the same reliable 4.5-liter direct-injection, common-rail system, twin turbo-intercooler V8 diesel engine producing 232 hp at 3,200 rpm and a staggering 616 N-m of torque between 1,800 and 2,200 rpm. The mill is coupled to a six-speed automatic sequential transmission to propel the electronically controlled full-time 4×4 drive train. As for protection, the premium SUV comes with standard safety elements, such SRS air bags—driver, passenger, front sides, curtain shields and front knee—antilock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake force distribution (EBD).
“Ladies and gentlemen, one cannot deny the prestige of the new Toyota Land Cruiser 200. With its more aggressive stance and additional innovative features, the latest model will do justice to the SUV’s long-standing heritage of reliability, luxury and authority,” Sugata-san said during his closing remarks
The all-new-LC200 is available in White Pearl, Silver Metallic, Gray Metallic, Attitude Black Mica, Dark Red Mica Metallic and Beige Mica Metallic. Buyers can also order new colors, such as Dark Blue Mica and Copper Brown Mica.
Prices per particular model are LC200 Premium 4.5 A/T White Pearl (P4.86 million); LC200 Premium 4.5 A/T (P4.845 million); LC200 4.5 A/T White Pearl (P4.437 million); and LC200 4.5 A/T (P4.422 million).
Image credits: Randy S. Peregrino