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2008 Toyota Land Cruiser Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

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Cathleen V | March 31, 2025
The 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser is part of the J200 series, known for its robust off-road capability and luxurious features. This full-size SUV boasts a four-door body style and was produced from 2007-2021. Key trims typically included a single, well-equipped grade. The original MSRP ranged from around $63,000. Its popularity stems from its exceptional reliability, go-anywhere attitude, and blend of comfort and ruggedness.
The Good

The 2008 Land Cruiser excels in performance due to its powerful V8 engine and advanced 4WD system, offering exceptional reliability appealing to practical buyers. Its luxurious interior and smooth ride provide comfort. While not fuel-efficient, its design is timeless, and its proven longevity offers strong value, attracting buyers seeking durability and prestige.

The Bad

The 2008 Land Cruiser's weaknesses include poor fuel economy due to its large engine and heavy weight. Maintenance can be expensive, especially for specialized components like the suspension. Rust can be an issue in colder climates. Watch out for potential issues with the navigation system and ensure regular servicing has been performed.

2008 Toyota Land Cruiser: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 5.7L V8 (3UR-FE)
  • Horsepower: 381 hp @ 5,600 rpm
  • Torque: 401 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm
  • Fuel Economy: 13 MPG City / 18 MPG Highway (EPA estimated)
  • 0-60 Times: Approximately 6.5-7.0 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: 8,500 lbs (with proper equipment)


Trim-Level Features (Typically One Well-Equipped Trim):
  • Full-time four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case
  • Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS)
  • Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS)
  • Automatic climate control (four-zone)
  • Leather upholstery
  • Heated front seats
  • Power-adjustable front seats
  • Navigation system with a touchscreen display
  • Backup camera
  • Premium audio system (JBL Synthesis)
  • Rear-seat DVD entertainment system (optional)
  • Power moonroof
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Parking sensors (front and rear)
  • Anti-theft system
  • Alloy wheels
  • Running boards

2008 Toyota Land Cruiser Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2008
Make Toyota
Model Land Cruiser
Trim -
Style 4WD
Type Sport Utility Vehicle
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle
Manufacturing Details
Made In Japan
Manufacturing City TOYOTA CITY
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight 5690 pounds
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 7275 pounds
Overall Height 74.00 inches
Overall Length 194.90 inches
Overall Width 77.60 inches
Wheelbase Length 112.20 inches
Standard Seating 8
Engine & Performance
Engine 5.7-L V-8 DOHC 32V
Engine Size 5.7L
Engine Cylinders 8
Transmission 6-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 6-Speed
Drivetrain Four-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System 4-Wheel ABS
Steering Type Rack & Pinion
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $63,200
Invoice Price $55,300
Delivery Charges $685

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What Problems Does the 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser are relatively few compared to other vehicles in its class, contributing to its strong reliability reputation. However, some owners have reported issues with the navigation system, including slow response times or glitches. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) can sometimes develop leaks or require maintenance, which can be costly. Rust, particularly in regions with harsh winters and road salt, is a long-term reliability concern that should be inspected. Some owners have also experienced issues with the air conditioning system. While the 2008 model year didn't have any major recalls, it's always advisable to check the NHTSA website for any updates or specific recalls related to a particular vehicle's VIN. Long-term reliability is generally excellent, but regular maintenance, including fluid changes and inspections of the suspension and drivetrain, is crucial to prevent issues. Older models may also experience wear and tear on components such as the bushings, ball joints, and other suspension parts.

How long will the 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser last?

With proper maintenance, a 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser can easily exceed 250,000 miles and provide well over 20 years of service. Many owners report reaching 300,000+ miles with consistent care. Long-term durability is a key strength. However, weaknesses over time can include rust in areas prone to salt exposure, wear and tear on suspension components (KDSS), and potential issues with the aging electronic systems (navigation, entertainment). Regular fluid changes, inspections, and addressing minor repairs promptly are crucial to maximizing its lifespan. Preventive maintenance is key.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser offered a good suite of built-in tech and safety features for its time. Standard features included a navigation system with a touchscreen display, a backup camera, and a premium JBL Synthesis audio system. Entertainment options included a rear-seat DVD entertainment system (optional). Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles but included parking sensors (front and rear).

Safety features:
  • Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
  • Electronic stability control (VSC)
  • Traction control (TRAC)
  • Side curtain airbags
  • Front seat-mounted side airbags
  • Driver and front passenger airbags
  • Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS)

While specific crash test ratings for the 2008 Land Cruiser may vary by source, it generally performed well in government and IIHS crash tests for its class, offering good occupant protection. It's important to note that safety technology has advanced significantly since 2008, so it lacks features like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning found in newer vehicles. The focus was on robust construction and basic safety systems.

Optional features mainly revolved around entertainment and convenience, such as the rear-seat DVD system and upgraded audio components.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black Onyx
Super White
Silver Metallic
Dark Gray Metallic
Amazon Green Metallic
Savannah Metallic
Stone Gray Metallic
Interior Colors
Ivory
Gray

2008 Toyota Land Cruiser Prices and Market Value

The 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser had an MSRP around $63,000 when new. Current used market prices typically range from $20,000 to $35,000, depending on mileage, condition, and location. The Land Cruiser holds its value exceptionally well due to its reputation for reliability and off-road capability. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, maintenance records, overall condition (rust is a major detractor), and the presence of desirable options like the rear-seat entertainment system. Low-mileage examples in excellent condition command a premium.

2008 Toyota Land Cruiser Cost of Ownership

The 2008 Land Cruiser is a costly vehicle to own. Insurance premiums are relatively high due to its value and repair costs. Fuel economy is poor. Maintenance can be expensive, especially for specialized components like the KDSS suspension. Repairs can also be pricey due to the complexity of the vehicle and the cost of parts. Long-term ownership costs are significantly higher than those of a more economical SUV or car. Budget accordingly for its thirst for fuel and potential for costly repairs.

2008 Toyota Land Cruiser Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 25.40 gallons
City Mileage 13 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 18 miles/gallon

2008 Toyota Land Cruiser Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Not Tested
Side Impact Test Results Not Tested

2008 Toyota Land Cruiser Recalls & Defects

Equipment:other:labels
Recall date 2010-02-03
Recall no. 10v036000
Source NHTSA
Summary Southeast Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2011 Passenger Vehicles FOR Failing TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims." These Vehicles Were Sold Without THE Requisite Load Carrying Capacity Modification Labels.
Consequence A Driver MAY Overload A Vehicle Which MAY Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Mail TO Consumers THE Corrected Label or THE Customer Will Have THE Option FOR Dealers TO Install THE Label Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 27, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Southeast Toyota AT 1-800-301-6859.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Tires:pressure Monitoring and Regulating Systems
Recall date 2011-03-04
Recall no. 11v148000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008 Through 2011 FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, Tacoma, Sequoia and Tundra Vehicles FOR Failing TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 138, "tire Pressure Monitoring System (Tpms)." When Factory-Installed Wheels and Tires Were Replaced With Toyota Authorized Accessory Wheels and LT Tires Prior TO First Sale, THE Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems Were NOT Re-Calibrated Correctly and Therefore DO NOT Start Illuminating THE Low Tire Pressure Warning Telltale AT THE Required Minimum Activation Pressure.
Consequence Failure TO Warn OF Tire Deflations IS A Non-Compliance With Fmvss 138 and Could Lead TO Tire Failure Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy FOR THE Land Cruiser, Sequoia, Tacoma and Tundra Vehicles, THE Dealer Will Re-Calibrate THE Tire Pressure Monitoring System ON Affected Vehicles and Install AN Updated Tire and Loading Information Label AT NO Charge. FOR THE FJ Cruiser Vehicles, THE Tpms Cannot BE Reset SO THE Electronic Control Unit (Ecu) FOR THE Tpms Will BE Replaced. Toyota IS Currently Developing THE Remedy Ecu. IF AN Owner IS NOT Certain Whether HIS or HER Vehicle IS Equipped With These Accessories, Please Contact ANY Toyota Dealer FOR AN Inspection AT NO Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON March 31, 2011. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal
Recall date 2012-06-29
Recall no. 12v305000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010 Lexus Rx350 and Rx450h Vehicles, Manufactured From November 28, 2008, Through September 1, 2010, and Model Year 2008 Through 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser Vehicles Manufactured From September 1, 2007, Through September 5, 2011. IN July 2012, Toyota Filed A Defect Report TO Recall Certain Model Year 2010 Lexus Rx350 and Rx450h Vehicles. IN November 2012, Toyota Informed THE Agency That IT WAS Including AN Additional 10,565 Vehicles Including Certain Model Year 2008 Through 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser Vehicles. THE Total Number OF Vehicles Being Recalled IS NOW 164,601. THE Accelerator Pedal CAN GET Stuck IN THE Wide Open Position DUE TO ITS Being Trapped BY AN Unsecured or Incompatible Driver's Floor Mat.
Consequence A Stuck Open Accelerator Pedal MAY Result IN Very High Vehicle Speeds and Make IT Difficult TO Stop THE Vehicle, Which Could Cause A Crash, Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Toyota and Lexus Will Notify Owners OF Affected Vehicles and Dealers Will Modify or Replace THE Accelerator Pedal and Replace ANY Driver's Floor MAT NOT Specified FOR THE Vehicle. Owners OF THE Lexus Vehicles Were Notified During August 2012. Toyota HAS NOT YET Provided A Notification Schedule FOR THE Additional Land Cruiser Vehicles. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Experience Center AT 1-800-331-4331 or Lexus AT 1-800-255-3987.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seat Belts:front
Recall date 2018-12-13
Recall no. 18v887000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain 2008-2019 Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus LX 570 Vehicles. Over Time, THE Seat Belt Tension Sensor Wire Harness MAY Break and Deactivate THE Front Passenger AIR Bag, Knee AIR Bag, and Passenger Seat-Mounted Side Airbag.
Consequence IN THE Event OF A Crash, Deactivated AIR Bags CAN Increase THE Risk OF Injury .
Remedy Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Modify THE Front Passenger Seat Belt Assembly or Replace IT With AN Improved One, AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began February 11, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus Customer Service AT 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE Lexus Interim J2L and Remedy Jll, Toyota Interim J15 and Remedy J05.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:sensor:occupant Classification
Recall date 2018-12-13
Recall no. 18v887000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain 2008-2019 Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus LX 570 Vehicles. Over Time, THE Seat Belt Tension Sensor Wire Harness MAY Break and Deactivate THE Front Passenger AIR Bag, Knee AIR Bag, and Passenger Seat-Mounted Side Airbag.
Consequence IN THE Event OF A Crash, Deactivated AIR Bags CAN Increase THE Risk OF Injury .
Remedy Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Modify THE Front Passenger Seat Belt Assembly or Replace IT With AN Improved One, AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began February 11, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus Customer Service AT 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE Lexus Interim J2L and Remedy Jll, Toyota Interim J15 and Remedy J05.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2018-12-13
Recall no. 18v887000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain 2008-2019 Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus LX 570 Vehicles. Over Time, THE Seat Belt Tension Sensor Wire Harness MAY Break and Deactivate THE Front Passenger AIR Bag, Knee AIR Bag, and Passenger Seat-Mounted Side Airbag.
Consequence IN THE Event OF A Crash, Deactivated AIR Bags CAN Increase THE Risk OF Injury .
Remedy Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Modify THE Front Passenger Seat Belt Assembly or Replace IT With AN Improved One, AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began February 11, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus Customer Service AT 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE Lexus Interim J2L and Remedy Jll, Toyota Interim J15 and Remedy J05.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal
Recall date 2017-08-31
Recall no. 17v548000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain 2008-2016 Toyota Land Cruiser, 2006 Lexus Lx470, and 2008-2013 Lexus Lx570 Vehicles. These Vehicles MAY BE Equipped With AN Incorrect Driver or Front Passenger AIR Bag. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 208, "occupant Crash Protection."
Consequence AN Incorrect Driver or Front Passenger AIR BAG MAY NOT Deploy AS Intended IN THE Event OF A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Affected AIR BAG Assemblies, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began September 29, 2017. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's Number FOR This Recall IS H0s. Lexus' Number FOR This Recall IS Hld.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2017-08-31
Recall no. 17v548000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain 2008-2016 Toyota Land Cruiser, 2006 Lexus Lx470, and 2008-2013 Lexus Lx570 Vehicles. These Vehicles MAY BE Equipped With AN Incorrect Driver or Front Passenger AIR Bag. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 208, "occupant Crash Protection."
Consequence AN Incorrect Driver or Front Passenger AIR BAG MAY NOT Deploy AS Intended IN THE Event OF A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Affected AIR BAG Assemblies, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began September 29, 2017. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's Number FOR This Recall IS H0s. Lexus' Number FOR This Recall IS Hld.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2017-08-31
Recall no. 17v548000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain 2008-2016 Toyota Land Cruiser, 2006 Lexus Lx470, and 2008-2013 Lexus Lx570 Vehicles. These Vehicles MAY BE Equipped With AN Incorrect Driver or Front Passenger AIR Bag. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 208, "occupant Crash Protection."
Consequence AN Incorrect Driver or Front Passenger AIR BAG MAY NOT Deploy AS Intended IN THE Event OF A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Affected AIR BAG Assemblies, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began September 29, 2017. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's Number FOR This Recall IS H0s. Lexus' Number FOR This Recall IS Hld.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2008 Toyota Land Cruiser Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty 60 months / 60,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Rust
Original warranty 60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining Expired

2008 Toyota Land Cruiser Insurance

Insurance for a 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser competed with vehicles like the Lexus LX 570 (its luxury counterpart), Range Rover, and Cadillac Escalade. In terms of reliability, the Land Cruiser surpasses most of its rivals, especially the Range Rover. The Lexus LX 570 offers similar reliability and features but at a potentially higher price point. The Cadillac Escalade provides more modern features and styling, but its reliability is not as strong. The Range Rover offers comparable off-road capability and luxury, but its reliability is a major concern.

Regarding performance, the Land Cruiser's V8 engine is competitive, but its fuel economy is lower than some rivals. Features-wise, the Land Cruiser is well-equipped but might lack some of the latest technology found in newer competitors.

Alternatives to consider include a newer Toyota 4Runner for better fuel economy and similar off-road capability at a lower price (though less luxurious). A Lexus LX 570 from a similar year offers a more luxurious experience. A used Lexus GX 470 or GX 460 provides a good balance of luxury, reliability, and off-road capability for less money, although with a smaller engine and less cargo space.

Ranks #136 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0★)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0★)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0★)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (5.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0★)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0★)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
136 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser (0.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser is ideal for buyers seeking a supremely reliable and capable off-road SUV with a touch of luxury. It's worth buying if you prioritize durability and longevity over fuel economy and the latest technology. Purchase a used model with a thorough inspection, focusing on rust, KDSS system health, and maintenance records. Avoid neglected examples. It's best suited for those who need a vehicle for overlanding, towing, or reliably tackling challenging terrain. If fuel economy is a major concern or you require cutting-edge tech, other SUVs might be a better fit. A well-maintained 2008 Land Cruiser remains a valuable and capable vehicle for the right buyer.

2008 Toyota Land Cruiser Owner Reviews

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Cathleen V

Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.