Does the Toyota Land Cruiser have 4 wheel drive?
The Land Cruiser is built as a four-wheel-drive SUV in nearly every generation, and current models rely on four-wheel drive systems designed for both on-road comfort and off-road capability. The exact setup varies by model year and market.
Current Land Cruiser 4WD configuration
The latest generation (the J300 series, introduced in 2021) uses a robust four-wheel-drive system with a center differential and a transfer-case setup that provides low-range gearing for challenging terrain. Depending on the trim level and regional market, buyers also get driving modes, traction aids, and off-road technologies that optimize power delivery to the axles.
- Full-time or near-full-time four-wheel drive with a center differential that balances power between front and rear axles.
- Two-speed transfer case or low-range gearing to enhance rock crawling and steep descents when off the pavement.
- Off-road technologies such as Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control to improve grip in demanding conditions.
- Some trims or markets offer electronic locking concepts or differential options to increase traction in extreme terrain.
In short, today’s Land Cruisers are engineered to perform confidently both on highways and off-road trails, thanks to capable four-wheel-drive hardware and related technologies.
Historical perspective on 4WD across generations
Throughout its history, the Land Cruiser has consistently featured four-wheel drive, evolving from simpler, manually operated systems to more integrated, electronically assisted setups. Earlier generations often used part-time 4WD with a manual transfer case, while later models moved toward full-time or highly automated systems with center differentials and richer off-road technology.
- 60s–80s: Commonly offered part-time 4WD with a manual transfer case and a selectable low range for off-road work.
- 80s–90s: Refined 4WD configurations with improved transfer cases, and many trims offered selectable High/Low range plus traction aids.
- 200 Series (2007–2021): Advanced drivetrain with a center differential and improved electronic aids, including traction and off-road modes.
- 300 Series (2021–present): Modern 4WD with sophisticated electronics, selectable modes, and off-road technologies designed for versatile use.
The trajectory shows a clear focus on delivering reliable four-wheel drive that remains usable in daily driving while expanding off-road capability through modern electronics and drive modes.
How to verify 4WD on a Land Cruiser you’re considering
When shopping for a Land Cruiser, you should verify the drivetrain configuration and ensure the model matches your intended use. This means checking official specifications, the window sticker, and the dealer’s build sheet, as drivetrain options can differ by market and trim.
- Look for a 4WD selector (such as 4WD High and 4WD Low) or an electronic transfer-case control that indicates multiple drive modes.
- Check for off-road features like Crawl Control, Multi-Terrain Select, or terrain-specific driving modes as indicators of robust 4WD capability.
- Review the vehicle’s brochure, spec sheet, or VIN-backed build sheet to confirm the type of center differential and any locking options.
- Ask the dealer to show the owner’s manual section on drivetrain and to confirm whether locking differentials or advanced traction aids are included on the specific trim.
These steps help ensure you understand the exact four-wheel-drive configuration of the Land Cruiser you’re considering, especially if you’re prioritizing off-road performance.
Summary
Yes — the Toyota Land Cruiser has four-wheel drive across its core lineup. Modern models feature sophisticated 4WD systems with center differentials, low-range gearing, and advanced off-road technologies, while earlier generations offered progressively simpler but capable 4WD setups. Always confirm the specific drivetrain details for the exact model and trim you’re researching, since options can vary by market and year.
