Legendary Land Cruiser
The prowess of the Land Cruiser lineup in South Africa is legendary with each of the model derivatives from the last few years handed the mantle of toughest and most reliable 4x4 vehicle in its derivative. You can currently get 4 Land Cruiser models, either new or second-hand, that will not only service the needs of your family but your thirst for adventure as well.
Related: Toyota Cruiser engine options explained
Whether it's a 5-door station wagon, single cab workhorse or a luxury offroader, the Land Cruiser offerings all have something to offer for the adventure-hungry owner that not only needs a big engine but a tough and reliable 4x4 drivetrain. We take a look at the 4 derivatives below to see which one is good for families.
Land Cruiser 70 series
The 70 series is the OG Land Cruiser with its boxy design and various options available in either a covered 5-door station wagon, 4-door open tray or 2-door workhorse. Comfort, safety, and convenience were distant afterthoughts with the 70 series and if longer adventures are being planned then this may not be your first port of call. Power is no problem with your choice of V6 or V8 engines mated to manual transmissions and the most rugged 4x4 system, the 70 is the choice of outback adventurers and overlanders the world over.... without their families in tow.
Land Cruiser Prado
The Prado sits a step above the Toyota Fortuner and takes the Land Cruiser recipe and adds all the comfort safety and convenience missing from the 70 series and rolls it into a neat package that is well suited to the overland crowd or those who wish to brave the urban jungle daily and want to keep their nearest and dearest close while out and about.
Land Cruiser 200
Things get slightly more interesting with the 200 series. Toyota dialed up the features of the Prado adding even more luxury and convenience for passengers. Safety and driver assistance are also elevated making the 200 an ideal luxury adventure vehicle that everyone in the family can enjoy.
Land Cruiser 300
The new Land Cruiser 300 now supersedes the 200 which has been retired and although you can't get a new 200 you can still find them on the second-hand market...if their owners are prepared to let them go! The 300 merely once again ups the ante and offers up a luxurious ride coupled with more space and convenience, safety, and driver assistance than ever before and is the ultimate family Land Cruiser that can go just about anywhere depending on the derivative you choose.
Verdict
As you can see the 300 series is of course the best choice for a family but comes at a steep price. If you can find a 200 series or a Prado you will be more than happy on the next adventure with your family in tow. The 70 series is best left to the hardcore overlanders who don't mind roughing it and leaving the kids at home.
