Hello all, interested in any info on upcoming LC 58 or LCLC and transitioning from family man suv

[redfromsc]

In love with the new 250 and have the $ finally saved up to get one (1958) but havent pulled the trigger yet for a couple of reasons. I'm coming out of an MDX with a 3rd row. We have 4 kids, all in college now, but still use the 3rd row from time to time. The MDX is fully loaded and is great to tailgate with, we do alot of tailgating at said colleges. The MDX surprisingly swallows a ton of stuff. That said I dream all day about getting the Land Cruiser, have taken several test drives and love the way it handles, sits, looks, and drives. From time to time I would take advantage of the 4 wheel capability as we go a few times a year to Blowing Rock and Boone NC.

I have several questions that our local dealer doesnt know, cant answer, or wont answer:

How much will I really miss the 3rd row if I use it now about 1-2 times a month?
How is the Land Cruiser for tailgating? Will the outlet in the trunk power a TV off the battery or does the truck need to be running? We have a generator but If I could run off the truck battery that would save a good bit of space. Is it hard getting stuff on and off the top? What about a trailer hitch cargo holder?
I love my seats now, 8 way power 2 way lumbar, will I miss that on the 1958? I already plan on getting Katzkin if I get a 58.
In the '26 LC58 will there be power seats and tailgate? Options for either, or will those features remain only on the LCLC?
For work recently I have driven several BMW's with the HUD and really like it, those that have it how often do you use from day to day?
Lastly, would I be better off saving 1 more year and getting the LCLC, buying a used LCLC now, or just upgrading a new 1958?

I know alot if not all of my questions center around personal preferences but I do very much enjoy reading everyones opinion on here. Thank you!

 

[hookem512]

If it were me, I know I would for sure miss some of the creature comforts going from a fully loaded MDX to a pretty basic 58.

 

[redfromsc]

Also are there any plans or rumors Toyota drops the i-FORCE 2.4L turbocharged engine non hybrid in the LC, and then adds a 3rd row as an option?

 

[vernonaec]

I went with a 1958. I personally didn't find the creature comforts/add ons on the LC LC worth the increased cost of the 1958 I got (dealers are also seemingly more adamant about getting rid of the 1958s on lot). That said, if you are coming from a loaded MDX like you say, then I'd encourage you to test drive and really get a feel for the LCLC v. the 1958.

I came from a 2021 Rav4 XLE. I had power seats, now they're manual. To be honest, I change the seat for like 30 seconds at most maybe once a month (when my girlfriend drives). Couldn't care less about that part.

Power lift gate would be nice, but can't say its really crossed my mine since buying the car. I surf a lot so using the trunk a ton, but I personally prefer throwing the trunk open rather than waiting for it.

My 1958 came with dealer-installed mocha brown Katskinz seats. This was a big deal to me because of sand/salt water getting in the cloth seats (history w/ my Rav for this). Install was basically OEM, not a single person has known its not OEM and frankly I can hardly tell.

Hud is a big no thank you from me. As you can probably tell I'm a bit of a minimalist hehe but thats a personal preference! If you have a bias towards luxury/small comforts then the LCLC might make more sense for you. The ONLY thing I'm minorly annoyed by is the lack of faux leather/cushioned material on the drivers side door. I always rest my elbow there and the plastic can be annoying on a long drive....minor gripe. I think I'll find a fix for it at some point but for now it is what it is.

TL,DR: I got the 1958 cuz I figured I would put money into the upgrades I wanted/that mattered to me, rather than have Toyota do that for me. The significantly lower price point new + upgradability + bias for minimalism is what lead me to my 1958. Haven't looked back!

 

[vernonaec]

Photos re:the Katskinz

 

[TakaraLC]

In love with the new 250 and have the $ finally saved up to get one (1958) but havent pulled the trigger yet for a couple of reasons. I'm coming out of an MDX with a 3rd row. We have 4 kids, all in college now, but still use the 3rd row from time to time. The MDX is fully loaded and is great to tailgate with, we do alot of tailgating at said colleges. The MDX surprisingly swallows a ton of stuff. That said I dream all day about getting the Land Cruiser, have taken several test drives and love the way it handles, sits, looks, and drives. From time to time I would take advantage of the 4 wheel capability as we go a few times a year to Blowing Rock and Boone NC.

I have several questions that our local dealer doesnt know, cant answer, or wont answer:

How much will I really miss the 3rd row if I use it now about 1-2 times a month?
How is the Land Cruiser for tailgating? Will the outlet in the trunk power a TV off the battery or does the truck need to be running? We have a generator but If I could run off the truck battery that would save a good bit of space. Is it hard getting stuff on and off the top? What about a trailer hitch cargo holder?
I love my seats now, 8 way power 2 way lumbar, will I miss that on the 1958? I already plan on getting Katzkin if I get a 58.
In the '26 LC58 will there be power seats and tailgate? Options for either, or will those features remain only on the LCLC?
For work recently I have driven several BMW's with the HUD and really like it, those that have it how often do you use from day to day?
Lastly, would I be better off saving 1 more year and getting the LCLC, buying a used LCLC now, or just upgrading a new 1958?

I know alot if not all of my questions center around personal preferences but I do very much enjoy reading everyones opinion on here. Thank you! View attachment 43811

How much will I really miss the 3rd row if I use it now about 1-2 times a month?
This is personal preference, so I can’t answer.

How is the Land Cruiser for tailgating? Will the outlet in the trunk power a TV off the battery or does the truck need to be running? We have a generator but If I could run off the truck battery that would save a good bit of space.
Yes, but the engine will cycle on and off to keep hybrid battery charge.

Is it hard getting stuff on and off the top?
Depends on how tall you are.

What about a trailer hitch cargo holder?
Yeah you can have that.


I love my seats now, 8 way power 2 way lumbar, will I miss that on the 1958?
Personal choice.

I already plan on getting Katzkin if I get a 58.
In the '26 LC58 will there be power seats and tailgate? Options for either, or will those features remain only on the LCLC?
Probably unlikely to come to 1958

For work recently I have driven several BMW's with the HUD and really like it, those that have it how often do you use from day to day?
I use it daily and like it.

Lastly, would I be better off saving 1 more year and getting the LCLC, buying a used LCLC now, or just upgrading a new 1958?
This again is personal preference.

 

[DubDub]

1958 here with my 2 cents...

The 1958 trim exists for people who are intentionally choosing the simplification of those comforts. The sacrifices are just too intentionally chosen to be otherwise. They are still very well equipped in most meaningful ways, if not equitably. I didn't choose the 1958 out of necessity of financial means, but rather because it fits me. With that in mind, my wife is the exact opposite, and her vehicle reflects that. 2025 Sequoia LTD with power everything, giant screen, pano roof, TRD OR package with the cool steps, styling and rack.

EVERY time I go from driving my family around in the Sasquatch (Sequoia) to my 1958, I ABSOLUTELY miss all of those features. But, I miss them with a giant smile on my face because I intentionally made that choice because it is more me. What you will notice more between the MDX and a 1958 is how much the interior is actively trying to discomfort you. The seats are amazing and the console lid is good. Everything else is created out of the same plastics I have in my Polaris Ranger SxS. Your forearm is going to mold itself to the door rest before the door gives in to you.

Also, IRT your 3rd row question, you will miss the third row at some point. We keep our 3 girls in the 2nd row 99% of the time, but we definitely use the third row whenever it is more convenient or necessary. Kids, friends, family, grandkids... if a third row is used in your life now, it will be missed.

 

[TakaraLC]

Also are there any plans or rumors Toyota drops the i-FORCE 2.4L turbocharged engine non hybrid in the LC, and then adds a 3rd row as an option?

No. In my opinion, the only possible future drivetrain update for LC will be a plug in hybrid option.

 

[TrailWhale]

Also are there any plans or rumors Toyota drops the i-FORCE 2.4L turbocharged engine non hybrid in the LC, and then adds a 3rd row as an option?

Seems unlikely, there’s a 4Runner for that.

 

[LC_DFW]

We have both, the 2024 LC 250 premium and 2023 MDX and in terms of cool factor the LC250 wins hands down. If I were to compare both the cars, I would say they have their own pros/cons. It really depends on what you need the car for. We also use the 3rd row in the MDX like 1-2 a month and I am glad we have that option in our MDX. Without it, we would be driving multiple cars to our destination.

I have done long hauls and sadly with the 3 row down, the MDX will hold more in the truck space compare to the LC250. I am able to stuff more things in the back of the MDX than on the LC. Also, with that v6 engine in MDX, its powerful and smooth like a butter.

 

[EOD Guy]

How much will I really miss the 3rd row if I use it now about 1-2 times a month?
Zero

How is the Land Cruiser for tailgating?
Great

Will the outlet in the trunk power a TV off the battery or does the truck need to be running?
Running but it cycles on/off

We have a generator but If I could run off the truck battery that would save a good bit of space.
No need for a generator

Is it hard getting stuff on and off the top?
Yes, but I'm not tall. I did make a folding platform that makes it a breeze for my size.

What about a trailer hitch cargo holder?
Easy but........ The LC has some funky anti-back up system, when an object is picked up by the sensors/cameras .... not a big deal but you have to remember to turn it off.

I love my seats now, 8 way power 2 way lumbar, will I miss that on the 1958? I already plan on getting Katzkin if I get a 58.
Not unless you adjust your seat on a regular basis.....LOL

In the '26 LC58 will there be power seats and tailgate? Options for either, or will those features remain only on the LCLC?
I assume you are correct

For work recently I have driven several BMW's with the HUD and really like it, those that have it how often do you use from day to day?
Every day! I actually find it easier to see my current speed than glancing at the speedo

Lastly, would I be better off saving 1 more year and getting the LCLC, buying a used LCLC now, or just upgrading a new 1958?
You're the only one who can answer that question.

Best of luck in whatever you decide to get!

 

[redfromsc]

Photos re:the Katskinz

Those look really nice!

 

[landcruisergrl]

I echo the sentiments already answered above

I traded in my 4Runner to achieve the extras on the LC premium - and I never used my third row in the 4Runner (thought I would but didn’t even with 3 large teen/young adults). Love the power hatch on the back - for me with a shoulder injury it’s just an added bonus so If you like tailgating nothing like being able to open it remotely or if you have your hands full?

I also enjoy the cooler to keep drinks cool on a hot summer day - it’s not huge but it sure does the trick. I’m only a few months in and thought I’d miss the Runner (as we were on our 3rd) and I absolutely do not!!!!

 

[Doggman1525]

Are you keeping the MDX or swapping it out? A GX500 Premium or Premium+ might better split the difference between the lux of a loaded MDX and the spartan character of the 1958. You'll still get some of the design factor (more modern, less retro than LC but basically the same profile), full time 4wd and a locking center diff plus you can keep the 3rd row if that's a determining factor. Will it tackle the Rubicon? No, but probably still good enough for 80% of off road use cases and, let's face it, it can be hard to give up the creature comforts we are accustomed to. Intellectually we might tell ourselves we are living our best lives by getting back to basics but I'd imagine after 16 hours of driving back and forth over a homecoming weekend in a vehicle with a hard plastic interior, no soft arm rests, basic stereo, etc, you might hear different from your better half...

 

[redfromsc]

Are you keeping the MDX or swapping it out? A GX500 Premium or Premium+ might better split the difference between the lux of a loaded MDX and the spartan character of the 1958. You'll still get some of the design factor (more modern, less retro than LC but basically the same profile), full time 4wd and a locking center diff plus you can keep the 3rd row if that's a determining factor. Will it tackle the Rubicon? No, but probably still good enough for 80% of off road use cases and, let's face it, it can be hard to give up the creature comforts we are accustomed to. Intellectually we might tell ourselves we are living our best lives by getting back to basics but I'd imagine after 16 hours of driving back and forth over a homecoming weekend in a vehicle with a hard plastic interior, no soft arm rests, basic stereo, etc, you might hear different from your better half...

I would love one of the kids to take the MDX and sell their car, specifically the Chevy Silverado but she doesnt want to, so more than likely I trade/sell the MDX. The 4Runner Limited with the 3rd row is also a candidate though it doesnt look near as cool as the LC imo. My wife is getting ready to get an Acura ADX soon and getting rid of her 2013 Mercedes C300 (which has actually been a great car) to sit up a little higher and have more room but I cant convince her to get a 3 row SUV.

 

[DubDub]

I would love one of the kids to take the MDX and sell their car, specifically the Chevy Silverado but she doesnt want to, so more than likely I trade/sell the MDX. The 4Runner Limited with the 3rd row is also a candidate though it doesnt look near as cool as the LC imo. My wife is getting ready to get an Acura ADX soon and getting rid of her 2013 Mercedes C300 (which has actually been a great car) to sit up a little higher and have more room but I cant convince her to get a 3 row SUV.

Coming from someone who had two 3-row 4Rs in the past (2016 SR5 Prem and 2018 Limited), the third row is a 4R is absolutely useless except for emergency use cases. It's a jumper seat on stadium seat floorboard, so adults are uncomfortable and children are unsafe. It takes up as much room in the floorboard as a hybrid battery, and the headrest near touches the rear glass when in use.

I love 4Rs, and it was a candidate for me when I purchased my LC. But, that third row only ever worked for us when either of our kids was in the age range requiring unlatched boosters, between being too small and too big, 5-10 yrs old(ish). If you treated a 4R purchase from a 2-row mindset, however, it can be had at the same price point as the LC 1958 with the LC LC niceties inside (non-hybrid premium).

 

[D-mac]

In the '26 LC58 will there be power seats and tailgate? Options for either, or will those features remain only on the LCLC?
Lastly, would I be better off saving 1 more year and getting the LCLC, buying a used LCLC now, or just upgrading a new 1958?

I suspect the 1958 trim will be discontinued in MY26, due to lower demand and overlap with the new 4Runner, which did not exist a year ago when the LC250 hit the streets. You may want to wait about 2 months to see what trims are available for MY26.

 

[LcAz]

I would really evaluate what you want the car to do most of the time. My most recent car fleet included an MDX type S that my wife drives and also a mid trim LC. I am always amazed how often we use the 3rd row in the MDX. My last kid just left the house, but family comes to visit more often than I realized (flying in from out of town). Also be aware that the LC is an offroad vehicle that is very big and heavy. If we are driving anywhere over an hour and not going offroad I never take the LC. It is a body on frame truck and drives as such at highway speeds. MDX is lightyears ahead for highway comfort and noise. I think it is totally lost on the majority of LC owners just how capable this rig is offroad. That is its best and primary purpose. Bonus that it is pretty well mannerd as a DD as well. If you are expecting this to replace the comfort of your MDX, I would take another freeway test drive. If you truly intend to get out on some gnarly trails, the LC will do all you ask it.

 

[6-funk]

Coming from a Honda Odyssey I definitely miss my 3rd row. The LC is way taller too, so getting stuff off the top is harder, but climbing on top of the rear wheels to access the rack isn't too terrible. I bought a Pakmule hitch mount cargo tray, that works amazingly. One thing I do miss is the side view mirror defrost. The LC needs to be on to power the rear outlet, but the truck is very quiet at idle, and will cycle on and off. It's more quiet than the rvs in the campground running their generators! The hybrid battery raises the rear load floor about 4inches which is noticeable when loading heavy objects. Part of me loves the LC and part of me wishes I got a 3 row Pilot trail sport instead. Like the previous posters have said this Truck skews hard toward off road and it's very capable. But it definitely gives up on road comfort to the unibodied competition. Consider your insurance premium too. Mine is very expensive to insure, shockingly expensive.

 

[BlueCruiser]

Have you compared the 2026 4R Limited with i-FORCE Max, full time 4WD and 3rd row seat? I think it is about $60K and has more flexibility on what feature/comforts you choose.