Toyota Land Cruiser LC5 3.0 D-4D 5dr Car Review - March 2012

The LC5 model has the same engine as the cheaper LC3 and LC4 models, delivering 188 bhp at 3400 rpm and 309 lb-ft of torque at 3000 rpm. This means 0-62mph takes a fairly impressive 11.7 seconds and flat out you'll be doing 109mph.

There is very little noise from the four-cylinder diesel engine but at speed plenty of road and wind noise infiltrate the cabin. On the road, the suspension can get unsettled by larger bumps and potholes and the Land Cruiser simply cannot match the road manner of the Land Rover Discovery and BMW X5.

The Land Cruiser is absolutely massive and, as such, commands a great deal of on-road presence. Some love its butch utilitarian looks and other hate them.

Power steering, central locking, stability control, alloy wheels, climate control, electric door mirrors, rear parking camera, sat-nav, electric front windows, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity and an advanced stereo system with CD and MP3 connectivity are all included as standard. A full leather interior is also fitted as standard.

With the seats up boot space is a little limited with just 104 litres on offer. However, folding the seats down increases this to an impressive 974 litres.

Land Cruisers are legendary for their reliability and, if looked after well, will last forever. However, Toyota do include a five year/100,000 mile warranty to put your mind at rest.

Euro NCAP have not tested the Land Cruiser but occupants will be well protected in the event of an accident thanks to the car's sheer size. The Toyota is also fitted with an impressive list of safety kit including driver, passenger and front side airbags as well and active front head restraints.

Priced at £51,295 the Land Cruiser LC5 is very expensive and nearly £20k pricer than the base model, the LC3. For this money you can have a top-of-the-range Land Rover Discovery, a Porsche Cayenne or a BMW X5. Although none of these cars will match the Land Cruiser's off-road ability, they are all much better to drive on the road.

Insurance premiums are likely to be fairly high under insurance group 33 and road tax will be pricey under band K. The Land Cruiser returns 34.9mpg on the combined cycle which is pretty good but it will still be an expensive car to run.