Toyota has rolled out an exciting new version of its iconic Land Cruiser, designed for those who need a tough, no-nonsense vehicle with massive cargo space. The Toyota Land Cruiser Commercial is a two-seater model that ditches the rear seats to focus on utility, offering a whopping 71 cubic feet of cargo room—almost double the standard five-seater model. While it’s built for work, it still packs the off-road prowess and reliability that the Land Cruiser name is known for. Let’s dive into what makes this vehicle a game-changer for workers, adventurers, and overlanders.
What Is the Toyota Land Cruiser Commercial?
The Land Cruiser Commercial is a stripped-down version of Toyota’s legendary SUV, tailored for those who prioritize function over luxury. Unlike the standard Land Cruiser, which is often seen as a premium vehicle in the U.S., this model is all about getting the job done. It’s a two-seater, meaning the back seats are removed to create a huge cargo area, perfect for hauling gear, tools, or supplies. Available only in the UK for now, this diesel-powered workhorse combines practicality with Toyota’s signature off-road capability.
Key Features of the Land Cruiser Commercial
Here’s a quick look at what sets this vehicle apart:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cargo Space | 71 cubic feet, nearly double the standard model’s 37.5 cubic feet. |
| Seating | Two front seats, no rear seats for maximum cargo capacity. |
| Engine | 2.8-liter diesel engine, reliable and efficient for tough jobs. |
| Towing Capacity | 7,716 pounds, perfect for trailers or heavy equipment. |
| Off-Road Features | Crawl Control, Hill-Start Assist, Downhill Assist, and all-wheel drive. |
| Comfort Features | Dual-zone climate control, blind-spot monitoring, and parking sensors. |
| Price | Starts at £51,729 (approx. $65,000 USD), significantly cheaper than the standard model. |
Why Choose the Land Cruiser Commercial?
This vehicle is built for people who need a reliable, rugged SUV that can handle tough tasks while still offering some modern comforts. Whether you’re a contractor hauling tools, an overlander setting up camp, or a business owner needing a dependable work vehicle, the Land Cruiser Commercial delivers.
Massive Cargo Space for All Your Needs
The standout feature of this model is its cavernous cargo area. By removing the rear seats, Toyota has created 71 cubic feet of space—enough to carry large equipment, camping gear, or even a custom bed platform for overlanding. The cargo area is lined with durable steel panels and features a metal partition to keep your load secure, making it ideal for heavy-duty use. Compared to the standard Land Cruiser’s 37.5 cubic feet, this is a massive upgrade for anyone needing extra room.
Built for Off-Road Adventures
The Land Cruiser Commercial doesn’t skimp on off-road capability. It comes equipped with:
- Crawl Control: Helps maintain a steady speed on rough terrain, so you can focus on steering.
- Hill-Start Assist Control: Prevents rollback on steep inclines, making hill climbs easier.
- Downhill Assist Control: Keeps your speed in check when descending tricky slopes.
- Permanent All-Wheel Drive: Ensures traction on mud, sand, or rocky trails.
These features make it a dream for off-roaders who need a vehicle that can tackle any terrain while carrying heavy loads.
Practical Power with a Diesel Engine
Under the hood, the Land Cruiser Commercial uses a 2.8-liter diesel engine, the same one found in other UK-market Land Cruisers. This engine is known for its durability and fuel efficiency, making it a great choice for long workdays or extended off-road trips. It also boasts a towing capacity of 7,716 pounds, so you can haul trailers, boats, or other heavy equipment with ease.
Surprising Comfort for a Work Vehicle
While the Land Cruiser Commercial is designed for utility, it doesn’t leave you feeling like you’re driving a bare-bones truck. Toyota has included some thoughtful features to keep the driver and passenger comfortable:
- Dual-Zone Climate Control: Adjust the temperature to keep both front passengers happy.
- Blind-Spot Monitoring: Helps you stay aware of vehicles in your blind spots.
- Parking Sensors: Makes parking in tight spaces a breeze.
- Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror: Reduces glare from headlights at night.
These additions make the Land Cruiser Commercial stand out in the work vehicle segment, where such features are often optional or unavailable.
How Does It Compare to Other Work Vehicles?
The Land Cruiser Commercial fills a unique niche in the work SUV market. Most competitors, like those from Ford or Chevrolet, focus on pickup trucks or larger SUVs with less off-road capability. The Land Cruiser Commercial offers a blend of ruggedness, cargo space, and modern features that’s hard to match. For example, while a Ford F-150 has a larger cargo bed, it lacks the enclosed, secure cargo area of the Land Cruiser Commercial, which is better for protecting valuable tools or gear.
Compared to the standard Land Cruiser, the Commercial model is about £26,000 cheaper (roughly $33,000 USD), making it a more budget-friendly option for those who don’t need the extra seats or luxury trims. However, its diesel engine and UK-only availability mean it’s not an option for U.S. buyers—at least not yet.
Why Isn’t It Available in the U.S.?
Unfortunately, the Land Cruiser Commercial is exclusive to the UK market, where diesel vehicles and commercial vans are more common. The diesel engine, while efficient, doesn’t meet U.S. emissions standards, making it unlikely to arrive stateside. Additionally, the U.S. market tends to associate the Land Cruiser with luxury, which could make a stripped-down version less appealing to American buyers. Still, at a starting price of around $65,000 USD, it would be a compelling option for U.S. workers or overlanders looking for a tough, cargo-focused SUV.
Who Is the Land Cruiser Commercial For?
This vehicle is perfect for:
- Contractors and Tradespeople: The massive cargo space and durable interior are ideal for carrying tools and materials.
- Overlanders and Adventurers: The off-road features and roomy cargo area make it great for long trips or camping setups.
- Small Business Owners: The combination of towing capacity, cargo space, and modern features suits businesses needing a reliable work vehicle.
- Off-Road Enthusiasts: Anyone who loves hitting the trails but needs a vehicle that can carry gear without sacrificing capability.
Conclusion
The Toyota Land Cruiser Commercial is a rugged, practical, and versatile SUV that redefines what a work vehicle can be. By swapping rear seats for a massive 71 cubic feet of cargo space, it caters to those who need a tough vehicle for work or adventure. Its diesel engine, impressive towing capacity, and off-road features make it a standout, while thoughtful comforts like dual-zone climate control and blind-spot monitoring add a touch of refinement. While it’s a shame this model isn’t available in the U.S., it’s a fantastic option for UK buyers looking for a no-frills, off-road-ready workhorse. If you’re in the market for a vehicle that blends utility with Toyota’s legendary reliability, the Land Cruiser Commercial is worth a closer look.
For more details on pricing and availability, check out Toyota’s official UK website.
