Toyota has officially confirmed that a hybrid version of the LandCruiser 300 Series will be launched in Australia in the first half of 2026. While full specifications for the Australian market are yet to be detailed, insights from overseas markets — particularly the UAE and the US — give us a good indication of what the electrified Toyota LandCruiser might offer when it arrives on local soil.
Here’s a breakdown of the key things we know about this upcoming hybrid SUV.
It will use a petrol-electric hybrid system
Unlike Toyota’s more familiar hybrid setups found in vehicles like the RAV4 or Camry, which typically involve a four-cylinder engine and two electric motors, the LandCruiser 300 Hybrid will use a more robust, performance-oriented drivetrain. Under the hood is a 3.4-litre twin-turbocharged petrol V6 engine, paired with a single electric motor integrated into the transmission.
This is a parallel hybrid system, meaning the petrol engine and electric motor can work together or independently to drive the wheels. It’s the same configuration already in use in the Toyota Tundra Hybrid pickup and the Lexus LX700h SUV, both of which are sold in overseas markets.
It will be more powerful than the diesel version
One of the most notable things about the hybrid LandCruiser is the power it delivers. In overseas applications, the combined output of the V6 engine and electric motor is rated at up to 336 kW and 790 Nm. That figure significantly surpasses the 227kW/700Nm generated by the current 3.3-litre turbo-diesel V6 that powers the LandCruiser 300 in Australia.
The additional power is expected to translate into improved on-road performance, including better towing and faster acceleration, while still retaining the vehicle’s rugged off-road capabilities.
It retains full off-road functionality
Despite the electrification, Toyota has ensured the LandCruiser Hybrid remains just as capable off-road as its diesel sibling. Overseas models feature a full-time four-wheel drive system, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and a low-range transfer case.
In terms of traction, electronic locking differentials are fitted to the front, centre, and rear, depending on the variant. These features, combined with the hybrid’s powertrain, suggest the vehicle is still very much designed for use in tough environments.
It’s been engineered for durability in harsh conditions
Toyota has stated that the hybrid system for the LC300 has undergone extensive testing in some of the world’s harshest environments, including desert and mountainous regions in the Middle East. A few structural modifications have been made to support the hybrid setup, including a revised front crossmember to maintain ground clearance and the repositioning of the spare wheel to accommodate the battery pack.
The hybrid version also maintains a 700mm wading depth, making it suitable for river crossings and off-road travel in wet conditions. These changes indicate a clear effort to retain the LandCruiser’s reputation for durability and off-road reliability, despite the shift in drivetrain technology.
The interior is expected to match high-end variants
Based on the Toyota LC300 hybrid models already on sale in the UAE, Australian buyers can expect a high level of interior equipment. Features in those models include leather-accented seats, four-zone climate control, and a 12.3-inch centre touchscreen as standard.
The LandCruiser hybrid GR Sport variant overseas gets a sportier design with black trim elements and its steering wheel layout. At the same time, the more luxurious VXR grade includes chrome accents, 20-inch wheels, and walnut wood interior finishes. A 1500W household power outlet in the boot is also available on some models, although it’s unclear if that will be offered in Australia.
Fuel savings will be moderate, not dramatic
Despite being a hybrid, this version of the Toyota LandCruiser is not primarily focused on fuel economy. In the UAE, the VXR hybrid model is rated at 9.17L/100km, or 10.9km per litre. With its larger 98-litre fuel tank, that translates to a touring range of over 1000km.
However, fuel savings over the non-hybrid petrol engine are expected to be modest, estimated at around 5–10% depending on driving conditions. It’s also worth noting that the GR Sport hybrid variant in the UAE comes with a smaller 68-litre tank, which reduces overall range.
It could be Toyota’s most expensive vehicle in Australia
In the UAE, the LandCruiser Hybrid starts at approximately A$164,000, based on exchange rates. For comparison, the petrol-powered LandCruiser there starts at around A$100,000.
The current diesel-powered 300 Series in Australia is priced from $97,990 to $146,910 before on-road costs, depending on the variant. This suggests the hybrid could become Toyota’s most expensive model sold in Australia, possibly even exceeding the locally available Toyota Tundra Hybrid, which starts at $155,990.
Local design details are still to be confirmed
While hybrid-specific exterior design changes — such as revised front bumpers and unique wheels — have been introduced in Middle Eastern models, it remains unclear whether these styling differences will be carried over to Australian versions.
Similarly, it remains unknown whether the local model will wear ‘Hybrid’ or ‘HEV’ badges, as these are not mentioned in Toyota’s initial Australian press materials.
More to come
With the official launch still several months away, Toyota is expected to release full Australian specifications and pricing closer to the hybrid LandCruiser’s arrival. For now, it’s clear that the 2026 LandCruiser 300 Hybrid will offer a blend of increased performance, retained off-road capability, and slightly improved efficiency. Still, it may come at a significant price premium over the diesel variant.
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