Toyota is about to take a historic step in the evolution of its flagship SUV, the Land Cruiser 300, known for its uncompromising reliability and durability. After the introduction of the self-charging hybrid, the Japanese giant is considering adding a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version to the model range. This move is a key element of the strategy for full electrification of the entire Land Cruiser family.
The Road to Electrification
The Land Cruiser 300, which debuted in 2021 on the TNGA-F platform, initially entered the market with two powerful V6 engines - a 3.5-liter gasoline with twin turbochargers and a 3.3-liter turbodiesel. In 2025, Toyota introduced the first hybrid modification with a single electric motor, which generates an impressive 457 hp. (341 kW / 464 PS), making it the most powerful Land Cruiser ever.
Against this backdrop, in September 2025, Toyota stopped taking orders for the petrol version in its domestic market and limited the availability of diesel modifications, which clearly signals a gradual transition to more environmentally friendly powertrains. This is where rumors about the preparation of the new PHEV variant appear, which will be the next logical step.
The Land Cruiser 300 PHEV is expected to combine a 3.5-liter V6 engine with a powerful electric motor. This combination should provide improved dynamics both on and off the asphalt. The increased capacity of the traction battery will allow for emission-free city driving without the use of gasoline, while the internal combustion engine will serve as a reserve for long journeys and areas with underdeveloped charging infrastructure.
Despite the environmental and dynamic advantages, electrification comes with some compromises, such as increased weight. Additional equipment will increase the total mass of the car, which can affect handling. In addition, space will be limited. According to preliminary estimates, the PHEV may only be offered in a five-seat configuration with a reduced luggage compartment. The fuel tank will also be reduced. The volume is expected to decrease to around 47 liters (compared to 80 liters in the standard version), similar to the Toyota Alphard PHEV.
Despite these limitations, the plug-in hybrid will significantly reduce CO2 emissions and position the Land Cruiser in line with Toyota's global eco-strategy, which seeks to electrify its entire line of off-road vehicles.
Toyota has already been exploring the possibility of plug-in hybrid, all-electric and even hydrogen powertrains for the smaller Land Cruiser 250 (Prado) series. This confirms that the electrification of the Land Cruiser family has long been a priority for the Japanese manufacturer.
The introduction of the Land Cruiser 300 PHEV in 2026, as rumored, will be a logical continuation of the model's evolution. This version will not only improve efficiency and reduce fuel consumption, but also broaden the model's appeal in the global market, especially in Europe, where demand for electrified SUVs is growing rapidly.
Thus, the Land Cruiser retains its status as a legendary all-terrain vehicle, but with this step it categorically adapts to modern environmental and technological standards.