The Venerable Nameplate’s Successful Return
The Land Cruiser’s return to the US has been nothing short of successful. After re-entering the market as a boxy, slightly smaller alternative to the full-fat LC, the SUV has quickly proven its appeal.
Toyota sold 27,336 units during the first half of 2025, compared to just 3,461 in the same period of 2024. That represents a 689.8 percent increase year-on-year, a rare jump in today’s SUV market. The combination of heritage styling, genuine off-road hardware, and a more accessible price point than the discontinued 200 Series has clearly worked.
Toyota will want to maintain that momentum. Historically, sudden price jumps can cool demand, so the company has taken a measured approach with the 2026 update.
Gabriel Ionica
Land Cruiser Pricing for 2026
For the new model year, the Land Cruiser continues in two trims – 1958 and the base –both carrying modest increases. The 1958 now starts at $57,200, up $500 from last year, while the Land Cruiser grade climbs $575 to $62,045. The bump translates to less than a 1 percent rise across the lineup. Considering the SUV is sourced from Japan and subject to tariffs, we’re impressed at how Toyota kept the pricing at bay.
The 2026 version carries over its 326-horsepower i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, standard full-time four-wheel drive, locking differentials, and available off-road tech like Multi-Terrain Select and CRAWL Control. Cabin tech remains competitive with an 8-inch or 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and available JBL premium audio. Given the lack of changes, discounts on unsold 2025 models could prove more attractive for buyers willing to shop around.
Should You Buy a 2025 Instead?
A look at current listings shows that 2025 inventory is still available, often with significant markdowns. On Cars.com, base Land Cruiser models are advertised as low as $53,409, with typical discounts between $4,000 and $5,000. The 1958 trim starts at $54,400, with reductions averaging $3,000 to $4,000.
That means a well-priced 2025 can undercut a brand-new 2026 by several thousand dollars, even before factoring in fees. Since the core mechanical package and feature set remain unchanged, the main trade-off is model year depreciation. Buyers prioritizing value may find the discounted 2025s a smarter purchase, while those intent on owning the latest model may consider the 2026 worth the slight premium.
For most, the numbers suggest that a leftover 2025 offers the better deal – especially if equipped with the features you want.
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