2001 Land Cruiser UZJ100

The 100 series Land Cruiser is as timeless as an SUV can get. The platform was wildly successful across the globe, and these days it’s still common to see one or more putting around on your daily commute. This can be attributed mostly to the near-bulletproof drivetrain, but also to the chassis’ refinement and modernity. 100 series owners don’t need the bells and whistles of a brand new vehicle, because this near three-decade old design does everything so well. Our 2001 is a real looker, finished in White Pearl (057), and set off by OEM rainguards, a rear hitch receiver, and brand new 17″ ICON alloys. Save for a few minor chips, dings, and loss of gloss on some panels, the cosmetics are in well above average shape for the vehicle’s vintage. Also above average is the verified and documented mileage on the clock, which is a measly 76k. This 4×4 hauler is up to date on maintenance and really knows how to capture the heart of the enthusiast. With style, service, and swagger, it’s easy to see why we’d call this one a Japanese Classic!

If you need the largest, most opulent, and family-friendly cabin, the J100 is the way to go. It’s comfortable, clad in premium materials, and has a few Japan-specific options we never received, like heated cloth seats. Protected by covers for the majority of their lifespan, the upholstery is in great shape, and the same can be said for the condition of the door cards, headliner, and dash cover. Accented by woodgrain trim, the center stack features a simple to use touchscreen that seamlessly integrates audio, and HVAC controls. As we trudge through the summer months, dual zone A/C blows ice cold, and functional heat isn’t far behind if you require it. The cabin is a safe place to be, especially up front, where both driver and passenger benefit from dual SRS airbags. This Cruiser also features a functional third row, which expands seating capacity to eight. If you’d rather haul around furniture rather than family, the jump seats can quickly prop up to the side, and the middle row tumbles forward. The carpets are in terrific shape, although the vehicle’s original floor mats withstood most of the daily use and abuse. Power windows, locks, and electric folding side mirrors work like a charm, and overall, there’s little to scrutinize about the cabin, save for some minor wear to the woodgrain steering wheel and the lack of third row headrests, and a missing CD changer. Even the factory keyless entry works to make your life a bit easier while running errands.

Under the skin, this Land Cruiser follows a tried and true recipe for 4×4 prestige. The 2UZ-FE under the bonnet is refined, yet serves up gobs of power and torque for unmatched performance. It’s also easy to access, thanks to new hood struts. The 4.7l motor cranks over with haste, thanks to a newly installed 12v battery, and is fresh off a recent service here at the shop, where we started with an oil and filter service and squeaked on a new serpentine belt to reliably drive your accessories. A new engine air filter was also installed, and this luxury cruiser is comfortable, quiet, and composed on pavement, even at higher speeds. Power is sent straight to a legendary 4×4 system, and an automatic gearbox goes through all four speeds predictably. We also freshly greased the U-joints to get the next owner on track for future maintenance schedules. Complete with a center locking differential and low range, this Landy can go anywhere, truly. The suspension benefits from new rear shocks, and rear upper control arms. While some suspension components show moderate wear commensurate with age, it rides and handles predictably and passed state inspection with flying colors. The power steering is feather light, and the ABS brakes are strong. The ICON wheels are wrapped in brand new 33″ Falken all-terrains, keeping you glued to the pavement for tens of thousands of miles to come. This lovable Cruiser has all the options, and with the maintenance up to date, what’s not to love?