THE DIFFERENCE

DOES A LUXURY FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE REALLY NEED THIS MUCH OFF-ROAD CAPABILITY? OR DOES A CAPABLE FOURWHEEL DRIVE NEED THIS MUCH LUXURY?

- EVAN SPENCE

IF YOU want locking differentials, front and rear, in a new 300 Series LandCruiser, this GR Sport is the only model in the line-up to include them. There is no other option box to tick, if you want factory lockers in a 300 Series, it’s either pony up the money for the second-most expensive model 300 Series, or pay a visit to your local four-wheel drive shop and have some aftermarket diff locks installed.

While modern traction-control systems are tremendously capable, especially the offerings from Toyota, sometimes there is no substitute for locking differentials for the ultimate in control when navigating technical terrain.

As well as having a centre, front and rear differential lock, the GR Sport LC300 also boasts E-KDSS – or Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System. This system allows for the vehicle’s sway bars to be disconnected when off-road for more articulation and a smoother ride on choppy ground, then reconnect when on-road for better handling.

Clever stuff indeed, making the GR Sport the most capable 4x4 in the LC300 range. But you are also paying for the privilege. We spent a week living with the GR Sport LC300 to get to know it better, see if the hype is real, and find out just how far can you take them off-road.

HOW MUCH IS IT AND WHAT DO YOU GET?