The 2016 Toyota Land Cruiser is well known for being a luxurious and capable off-roader. The big 5.7-liter V8 under the hood carries over from the previous model year, but there is a new 8-speed transmission available in this truck-based SUV. Can the 8-speed perform better, faster, and more efficiently on the Ike Gauntlet extreme towing test?
The 32-valve DOHC V8 makes 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque @ 3,600 rpm. The power is delivered via the 8-speed automatic transmission. The load is the horse trailer with a total weight of 5,600 lbs. There are also two reporters in the cab for a total of 6,100 lbs.
How did the Land Cruiser do? Check out the comparison data table below and watch the video here.
Fullsize SUV – Ike Gauntlet
| 2015 Lexus LX570 | 2016 Toyota Land Cruiser | |
| Model | 4×4 | 4×4 |
| As Tested $ | $90,720 | $84,820 |
| Engine | 5.7-liter V8 | 5.7-liter V8 |
| Transmission | 6-speed | 8-speed |
| Power (hp / lb-ft) | 383 / 403 | 381 / 401 |
| Tow Rating | 7,000 lbs (3.91 axle) | 8,100 lbs (3.31 axle) |
| Payload Rating | 1,385 lbs | lbs |
| Test Load (trailer + ppl) | 6,100 lbs | 6,100 lbs |
| Suspension Sag | 2 in | 2.5 in |
| Down: Transmission Temp | normal | normal |
| Up: Time | 7:43.03 | 8:28 |
| Up: MPG | 3.8 | 3.8 |
| Up: Transmission Temp | normal | normal |
| Final Ike Score | n/a | 60 |
Andre Smirnov is a life-long automotive enthusiast, writer, reporter, and software engineer. He has been writing and reporting at TFL since 2011.
