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As the Japanese automotive industry continues its fightback from the utter devastation caused by the terrible tsunami we are seeing the introduction of several special models to promote sales. Toyota has just announced a special edition LandCruiser 200 Series called the Altitude.
Based on the LandCruiser GXL, the Altitude carries upmarket features like leather-accented trim, steering wheel audio controls, power-adjustable front seats, a cool box between the front seats, and satellite navigation.
The satellite navigation has the convenience of a touch-screen. The audio system has AM/FM radio, a four-CD disc changer, MP3/WMA compatibility, a remote 3.5 mm audio input jack and Bluetooth hands-free connectivity.
Externally the 200 Series Altitude has 18-inch alloy wheels normally seen on the LandCruiser VX and Sahara models, these are fitted with large 285/60R18 tyres. Front foglamps are all the rage these days so Toyota has added them to the package.
The LandCruiser Altitude has an exterior colour, Crystal Pearl, that until now was only offered on the top of the line LandCruiser Sahara. With this colour you can choose from Grey or Sand Beige leather-accented trim. The LandCruiser Altitude is also offered with Silver Pearl, Graphite and Blue Storm exterior shades, all with Grey leather-accented seat trim. The special edition LandCruiser carries ‘Altitude’ exterior badges.
LandCruiser 200 Altitude is offered with the choice of V8 petrol or twin-turbo V8 diesel engines - both with an electronically controlled automatic transmission.
The 4.7-litre twin-cam petrol V8 model uses Toyota’s special suspension design called Kinetic Dynamic Suspension (KDSS). Aimed at the serious off-road driver, this gives the LandCruiser added wheel articulation.
Prices are $80,190 recommended retail for the Altitude petrol, and $XXXX for the turbo-diesel.
Though many LandCruisers are used in real off-road driving conditions, most are found in the suburbs. The ‘Cruiser is long and wide and it can feel as though you are driving a light truck not a passenger car - which is precisely what you are doing. Visibility is good in all directions and unless you’re driving in tight inner-city areas you will soon become accustomed to it and really appreciate its carrying ability - both for people and goods.
Getting in and out of a Toyota LandCruiser 200 series is awkward at times as it's quite a climb up to the seats and they are set a good distance inboard. The LandCruiser 200 can seat up to eight people. Six can be adults, though four plus four children is more realistic.
The second-row seats can slide backwards and forwards to juggle the amount of legroom. When they are all the way back the space they provide is limo-like. The third row seats are very cramped when you slide the centre row all the way back. Headroom in the latter two rows of seats could provide problems with tall travellers.
The two rearmost seats fold up against the side of the storage area when not in use and there's still plenty of luggage space between them when they are stowed. Even with the seats in use you can fit a fairly hefty suitcase behind them.
In-cabin stowage space is very good, with large door pockets that can take voluminous drinks bottles and numerous other spots for sunglasses, mobiles, wallets and the like.
The suppression of NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) is impressive and the large Toyota off-roader has (almost) the sort of luxurious feel you get from an upmarket passenger car.
Some may find the Toyota LandCruiser is too soft in its handling and that the steering is on the slow side. Far more owners are looking for comfort than for sporty handling but try for yourself if you've never owned a LandCruiser before.
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