It’s about to be blessed with a plugless ‘performance hybrid’ system, but the Toyota LandCruiser could also be in line to receive a plug-in hybrid powertrain, according to an unconfirmed report from Japan.
Toyota is said to be developing a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option for its LandCruiser 300 Series, potentially allowing future owners to commute using only battery power during the week, and to drive long distances into regional areas on the weekend using petrol power, according to Japanese outlet Creative311.
It’s likely the PHEV technology will be mated with Toyota’s 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol engine – as with the forthcoming LandCrusier Hybrid – rather than the extra-large off-road SUV’s existing 3.3-litre twin-turbo diesel V6.
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However, it’s also possible the PHEV variant will employ a smaller four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine.
The report claims the 300 Series PHEV will only be available as a five-seater, with rear cabin space compromised due to the addition of a large battery.
The fuel tank will also reportedly be reduced to make room for the battery, with the LandCruiser’s 80-litre tank potentially reduced to roughly 50 litres.
While the plug-in hybrid LandCruiser has yet to be confirmed by the Japanese auto giant, the vehicle would be a direct response to the GWM Tank 500 PHEV, which combines a 180kW 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with a 37.11kWh battery and a 120kW electric motor.
With total power outputs of 300kW and 750Nm, the Tank 500 PHEV is said to have an electric driving range of 120km – and the ability to cover approximately 950km in total.
There are several other plug-in hybrid SUVs already available in Australia, but the Tank 500 PHEV is the first to offer proper off-road capability.
MORE: 2026 GWM Tank 500 PHEV detailed for Australia, and Ford and Toyota have no answer