It Coming To Chicago Auto Show?
Images of a Toyota Land Cruiser spotted in the U.S. wearing Illinois manufacturer license plates are fueling speculation that the iconic SUV might be gearing up for a return to North America. The single 2023 Land Cruiser GR Sport was photographed on the back of a transporter together with a BMW M4 and a pair of Jeep Wranglers. Close-up images show the prominent GR branding and part-red leather interior.
But late last year Toyota Motor North America Executive Vice President of Sales Jack Hollis hinted that the legendarily tough truck might have unfinished business on the continent. “Will we ever? I would say likely yes,” he replied when asked by Motor Trend if Toyota would ever bring the Land Cruiser back to U.S. showrooms.
Toyota withdrew the J200 Land Cruiser from the North American market in 2021 after poor sales and opted not to import its 2022 J300 replacement, offering only the Toyota’s upscale sister, the Lexus LX instead. Both models swapped their predecessors’ naturally aspirated V8s for a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 rated at 409 hp (415 PS).
Toyota North America could simply be performing some internal evaluation drives of the 2023 Land Cruiser, or it might be planning to show it off at next week’s Chicago Auto Show to let fans know that it hasn’t forgotten about the model. The Chicago show will feature a strong SUV and truck presence including the electric Ram Revolution concept pickup and the debut of Toyota’s 2024 Grand Highlander.