Toyota land cruiser 300 series engine

Toyota Land Cruiser 300 series engine

Toyota Land Cruiser 300

The Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series is a powerhouse in the world of full-size SUVs, carrying forward the legacy of durability, off-road capability, and reliability that the Land Cruiser name is known for. One of the most significant changes in the 300 Series, introduced in 2021, is the switch to smaller, more efficient, and more powerful engines compared to its predecessor, the 200 Series. Toyota offers the Land Cruiser 300 with two distinct engine options: a 3.5L twin-turbo V6 gasoline engine (V35A-FTS) and a 3.3L twin-turbo V6 diesel engine (F33A-FTV).


Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series Engine Options

1. 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 Gasoline Engine (V35A-FTS)

  • Displacement: 3.5 liters (3,444 cc)
  • Configuration: V6, twin-turbocharged
  • Power Output: 409 hp (305 kW) @ 5,200 rpm
  • Torque: 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) @ 2,000-3,600 rpm
  • Fuel System: Direct and port injection (D-4ST)
  • Transmission: 10-speed automatic
  • Fuel Economy: Approximately 9.3 km/l (22 mpg combined)
  • 0-100 km/h: Around 6.8 seconds

Key Features:

  • Performance Boost: This new twin-turbo V6 replaces the 5.7L naturally aspirated V8 from the 200 Series. Despite the downsizing, the V35A-FTS offers more horsepower and torque while delivering better fuel economy.
  • Dual Injection Technology (D-4ST): Combines direct and port fuel injection for optimal power, efficiency, and cleaner emissions.
  • Lightweight and Efficient: The aluminum block construction and compact size contribute to weight reduction, improving overall vehicle balance and handling.

Pros:

  • Higher power output than the previous V8 engine
  • Better fuel efficiency than the older V8
  • Smooth and quick-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission
  • Strong low-end torque for off-road and towing capabilities

Cons:

  • Some enthusiasts still prefer the V8’s naturally aspirated feel
  • Higher complexity with twin turbos may mean more expensive maintenance
  • Requires high-quality fuel for optimal performance

2. 3.3L Twin-Turbo V6 Diesel Engine (F33A-FTV)

  • Displacement: 3.3 liters (3,298 cc)
  • Configuration: V6, twin-turbocharged diesel
  • Power Output: 305 hp (227 kW) @ 4,000 rpm
  • Torque: 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) @ 1,600-2,600 rpm
  • Fuel System: Common-rail direct injection
  • Transmission: 10-speed automatic
  • Fuel Economy: Approximately 10.2 km/l (24 mpg combined)
  • 0-100 km/h: Around 7.5 seconds

Key Features:

  • High Torque Output: With 700 Nm of torque, this engine is a powerhouse for towing, off-road driving, and long-distance cruising.
  • Efficient and Durable: Toyota has improved the diesel technology for lower emissions and better fuel economy.
  • Optimized for Off-Roading: Diesel engines typically provide better low-end power, making the 300 Series an excellent performer in extreme terrain.

Pros:

  • Exceptional torque for heavy loads and towing
  • Better fuel economy compared to the gasoline version
  • More durability for long-distance and off-road travel
  • Lower CO2 emissions compared to older diesel engines

Cons:

  • Diesel fuel may not be available in some regions
  • Not as quick as the gasoline counterpart
  • Modern diesel engines require more maintenance, such as DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) cleaning

Performance & Driving Experience

Both engines are mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth gear shifts and improved fuel efficiency. The body-on-frame TNGA-F platform enhances ride quality, making the Land Cruiser 300 more stable on highways and off-road trails. The Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) allows for better articulation and ground clearance, making it one of the best SUVs for tackling rough terrain.

Off-Road Capabilities

  • Full-time 4WD system
  • Multi-Terrain Select & Crawl Control for extreme conditions
  • Locking differentials (front, center, and rear)
  • Approach & departure angles optimized for rock crawling

Which Engine is Better?

Gasoline V6 (V35A-FTS) is Ideal If:

  • You want faster acceleration and smoother highway driving.
  • You prefer a quieter and more refined engine.
  • You don’t mind higher fuel consumption compared to diesel.

Diesel V6 (F33A-FTV) is Ideal If:

  • You need better fuel economy for long trips.
  • You do a lot of off-roading or towing.
  • You prefer a more torque-heavy driving experience.

Conclusion

The Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series has successfully transitioned from large V8 engines to smaller, more efficient twin-turbo V6 powertrains, improving performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions. Whether you choose the 3.5L gasoline V6 for power and smooth acceleration or the 3.3L diesel V6 for torque and efficiency, both engines maintain the legendary reliability and durability that Toyota is known for.

Would you like a comparison of the Land Cruiser 300 vs. 200 Series or more details on engine maintenance? 🚙

toyota land cruiser 300 series engine