The front seats offer a commanding view of the road ahead. The fenders are easily visible, which is a benefit when picking your way along a narrow mountain trail. Getting up to that commanding view entails more of a climb than it does in a Ford Expedition or Chevrolet Tahoe. That's the price of a ground clearance of nearly 10 inches and well worth it when driving off road. Large door openings assist when getting in and out.

The interior looks contemporary with a dashboard design that closely resembles the one used in Toyota's smaller 4Runner. All controls are logically placed, well marked and easy to use.

The third seat option isn't very useful. There's more third-seat legroom in a midsize Dodge Durango. If you need seating for more than four or five, then check out the Sequoia. We'd pass on this option and use that space for cargo. You may need it. The Land Cruiser ranks near the bottom of its class in terms of cargo space.

Storage space abounds for odds and ends. Compartments include a big glove box, a cubby in the front console, and front and rear door pockets. An overhead console provides three storage boxes plus a compartment for sunglasses or a garage door opener. Separate compartments in back hold tools, a jack and a first aid kit.