The ever-popular Land Cruiser 200 – the big daddy of Toyota's local model line-up–has received a number of cosmetic updates.

With around 100 units of this R1 million-plus vehicle sold in South Africa every month, the Land Cruiser 200 is a very important model for Toyota. For adventurous types its rugged underpinnings, legendary off-road ability, reliable and powerful V8 diesel engine, as well as a large dollop of luxury, make it the preferred weapon of choice for those long treks into the unknown.

Now, Toyota has added a number style updates. As before, two trim levels are offered, but the entry-level GX has been rebadged the GX-R, to bring its naming inline with the flagship VX-R. Both derivatives are powered by a 4.5L turbodiesel V8 that delivers 195kW at 3 400rpm and 650 Nm from 1 600 to 2 600 rpm.

Also read: SA's unsung off-road sales hero

Most of the changes to the VX-R can be found at the front, where there is a new grille design and a "smoked treatment" has been applied to the Bi-LED headlamps and LED fog lamps. The headlamps feature Auto High Beam functionality, LED illumination and daytime running lights.

In its latest form the Land Cruiser 200 is far from a "utilitarian" beast. It's a proper luxury vehicle.

Inside, Toyota has added the option of brown interior trim, in addition to the choice between black and beige offered before.

Standard Features on the VX-R

Blind Spot MonitoringAuto-dimming mirrorsIntegrated tow hitchLeather interiorPower-adjustable front seats3-zone climate controlFront ventilated seatsHeated seats (1st and 2nd row)‘Coolbox’Optitron instrumentationSurround-view camerasSatellite Navigation and touchscreen infotainmentSmart EntryTyre Pressure MonitoringMulti-Terrain Select (switchable off-road driving modes)Active Traction Control (A-TRAC)Crawl ControlFull suite of electronic driving aids including Lane Keeping system and10 airbags

Toyota Land Cruiser 200Line-up & Pricing

Land Cruiser 200 4.5D V8 GX-R 6AT – R 1 021 900

Land Cruiser 200 4.5D V8 VX-R 6AT – R 1 405 600

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