2019 marks an auspicious year for the Toyota Land Cruiser. With over 10 million copies sold worldwide in its 7o year sweep, it's hard to believe that in 1958 - the first year it was available for sale in the U.S. - Toyota managed to sell a single, solitary, lone Land Cruiser. That's right, only one!

But what a difference 70 years makes! Today it is recognized as one of the leaders of full-size luxury SUVs with umpteen versions sold across the globe and a proven record of performance and reliability. That's not bad considering its humble origins and the no-frills attitude which came to define the Land Cruiser in its first couple decades of existence.

https://pressroom.toyota.com/after-seven-decades-toyotas-legendary-land-cruiser-keeps-rolling-along/

The roots of the Land Cruiser can be traced back to the 1950 Toyota BJ, a purpose built vehicle designed to conquer off-road trails and mountainous terrain for the Japan's National Police Force. She was a simple, yet highly effective truck with a 75 hp 3.4 liter straight-6 engine capable of going further up Mt. Fuji than any other vehicle at the time.

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Given its success with various Japanese governmental agencies and in South America and the Middle East, Toyota introduced the 20 series and a new name - the Land Cruiser. More options were added such as doors, a metal top, and suspension changes. Body styles ran the gamut from pickups, station wagons, and even fire trucks. And, she received a bigger motor greatly increasing her flexibility and attractiveness to global buyers. Indeed, the Land Cruiser would serve as the basis for Toyota's global sales strategy.

https://pressroom.toyota.com/after-seven-decades-toyotas-legendary-land-cruiser-keeps-rolling-along/

And while her rollout to the American market was less than stellar, it set the stage for the biggest change and most legendary model in her storied history - the FJ40. The chassis, leaf springs, and solid front and rear axles remain unchanged, but she ceased being a bare-bones machine offering wraparound windows, angular styling, extended overhangs, and improved fit and finish. Horsepower was up to a class-leading 125 with a tw0-speed transfer case and 5.53:1 transfer ratio for excellent rock-crawling abilities. From 1960 to 1965, she would be Toyota's best-selling vehicle in the U.S. until the Corona sedan hit the market.

https://pressroom.toyota.com/after-seven-decades-toyotas-legendary-land-cruiser-keeps-rolling-along/

In successive years, the 40 series would beget the 55 and the 60, 70, 80, 100, and so on and so forth. With each iteration the Land Cruiser would grow in size, comfort, and capability. Motors were enlarged, a luxury version was added in the form of the Lexus LX, and off-road prowess was solidified with a host of mechanical and electronic enhancements.

The current 2020 edition sports a responsive and powerful V-8, no fewer than 28 cabin vents and 14 speakers, heated seats, split smart screens, voice activated navigation, and an extensive suite of driver safety functions. It's amazing how far it's come from its simple roots but it still delivers on Toyota's promise of capability and reliability. Happy Birthday, Land Cruiser! Buckle up.

(via Toyota)

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