Toyota’s latest take on the Land Cruiser 300 (see video) is called Rally Raid and delivers on that bold promise with upgraded bodywork and suspension. Only 12 SUVs like this will be made and raffled off in Japan; 12 more will be released as DIY tuning kits and also raffled to deter flippers.
The number twelve is not coincidental here. Toyota’s mass-produced off-roaders scored 12 Dakar Rally victories throughout the years. Like those vehicles, the Land Cruiser 300 Rally Raid comes equipped with off-road shock absorbers, tuned springs and reinforced body mounts on the frame. 18-inch Enkei wheels fill out the arches along with Toyo Open Country tires.
Further exterior changes include new bumpers, red towing hooks and brake calipers, branded mud flaps and Toyota’s rally team decals. The interior boasts seats with enhanced lumbar support and a commemorative dash plaque.
The base vehicle is a Land Cruiser 300 GR Sport powered by a 3.3-liter diesel V6. It links to a 10-speed automatic transmission and sends 309 PS (305 hp / 227 kW) along with 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque to all four wheels via three differentials (one per axle plus interaxle).
Prices in Japan start from 9,380,000 JPY (U.S. $63,700) for a ready-made car. GR Sport owners who would like to build their own off-roader will be able to purchase just the OEM tuning kit for 1,511,400 JPY ($10,263).
