Toyota has launched a performance hybrid version of the LandCruiser 300 Series, adding petrol-electric power to its flagship Sahara ZX and GR Sport models.
The new powertrain is not positioned as an efficiency-focused hybrid. Instead, Toyota says it has been engineered to deliver stronger towing, overtaking and off-road performance, while retaining the LandCruiser’s core heavy-duty capability.
At its heart is a twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine paired with an electric motor positioned between the engine and a conventional 10-speed automatic transmission.
Together, the system produces 341kW of power and 790Nm of torque, making it the most powerful LandCruiser ever offered in Australia.
Toyota says that represents an increase of 114kW and 90Nm over the 3.3-litre V6 turbo-diesel LandCruiser 300 Series.
Hybrid system built for torque and towing
Unlike Toyota’s conventional hybrid systems used in models such as the RAV4 and Camry, the LandCruiser uses a parallel hybrid arrangement designed to support performance under load.
The petrol V6 produces 305kW and 650Nm, while the electric motor contributes up to 36kW and 250Nm. Depending on conditions and driver input, the engine and motor can operate together or separately to provide stronger response and more immediate torque.
Toyota says the system has been developed to reduce the effort required from the powertrain during towing, overtaking and country driving, while also providing added torque for off-road work.
Importantly for fleet and towing users, the performance hybrid retains a 3500kg braked towing capacity.
The new hybrid models use a 6.5Ah, 288V nickel-metal hydride battery mounted beneath the rear luggage area in a waterproof tray. Toyota says the battery installation has been designed to minimise the impact on interior packaging while providing protection in the event of a collision.
Electric steering and added on-board power
The performance hybrid introduces electric power steering to the LandCruiser 300 platform, replacing the hydraulic steering assistance used on turbo-diesel models.
Toyota says the change delivers more responsive turn-in, improved straight-line stability and better steering feel.
The hybrid system also supports a 200V/1500W inverter, allowing a three-pin AC outlet to be fitted inside the cabin for powering small appliances and equipment.
For fleets operating in remote areas, touring applications or field-based work, that on-board power capability may be useful for charging tools, communications equipment or other low-load electrical devices.
Sahara ZX and GR Sport retain distinct roles
The LandCruiser 300 performance hybrid is available in two flagship grades.
The Sahara ZX is aimed at buyers wanting road comfort, long-distance capability and premium equipment. It retains full-time four-wheel drive, a dual-range transfer case, adaptive variable suspension and a rear Torsen limited-slip differential.
The GR Sport remains the more off-road-focused version. It gains front, centre and rear locking differentials, along with Toyota’s electronically controlled Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System, or e-KDSS.
Both versions feature Toyota’s multi-terrain select system and retain the LandCruiser 300’s full-time four-wheel-drive layout.
Pricing and key specifications
Toyota has priced the LandCruiser 300 performance hybrid at:
- GR Sport: $156,060
- Sahara ZX: $156,810
Prices exclude on-road costs.
| Specification | LandCruiser 300 Performance Hybrid |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol |
| Hybrid type | Parallel hybrid |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic |
| Combined power | 341kW |
| Combined torque | 790Nm |
| Braked towing capacity | 3500kg |
| Fuel tank | 98 litres |
| Combined fuel use | 10.0L/100km |
| Combined CO2 emissions | 226g/km |
| 0–100km/h | 6.5 sec Sahara ZX / 6.6 sec GR Sport |
The performance hybrid is a significant step for the LandCruiser nameplate, but it is not a substitute for Toyota’s efficiency-focused hybrid or battery-electric models.
Instead, it demonstrates where Toyota sees electrification adding value for heavy-duty vehicles: more torque, stronger response and improved drivability without compromising towing capacity or off-road capability.
For fleets that need to tow, carry people and equipment, or operate across long regional distances, the LandCruiser performance hybrid offers a new powertrain option. The key question will be whether the additional performance, petrol operating costs and premium purchase price suit the vehicle’s intended role.
