The 2008–2015 Toyota Land Cruiser (URJ200) is the generation that turned a proven off-road icon into a refined, long-range family SUV without compromising its core toughness. Under the hood sits Toyota’s 5.7-liter 3UR-FE V8 (381 hp, 401 lb-ft), paired with a six-speed automatic and a full-time 4×4 system with a Torsen center differential and low range. In 2013 it received a meaningful update: styling tweaks, an expanded standard-equipment list, and trail tech like Multi-terrain Select and Crawl Control. Seating for eight, a calm ride, and a reputation for durability make it a compelling used buy—especially for owners who split time between highway miles and primitive roads. This guide focuses on the 2008–2015 model years with the 3UR-FE and the North American configuration, covering hard specs and dimensions, capability and real-world running costs, maintenance expectations, known issues, and what to check before you purchase.
Fast Facts
- Proven V8, stout driveline, and real low range; excellent long-term parts support.
- Comfortable ride and quiet cabin; 8-passenger layout with simple, durable controls.
- 2013+ adds Multi-terrain Select, Crawl Control, and broader standard features.
- Watch for water pump seepage, KDSS hydraulic leaks, and age-related rubber/hoses.
- Typical oil service: 10,000 mi / 12 months (0W-20), or 5,000 mi under severe use.
Navigate this guide
- URJ200 overview highlights
- URJ200 specifications and data
- URJ200 trims and safety
- Reliability and service actions
- Maintenance and buyer guide
- Driving and performance
- How Land Cruiser compares
URJ200 overview highlights
The URJ200 Land Cruiser introduced for 2008 brought a stronger ladder frame, an independent front suspension tuned for comfort, and a four-link solid rear axle that keeps the off-road credibility intact. The 3UR-FE 5.7-liter V8 is the centerpiece: an all-aluminum, DOHC 32-valve unit with Dual VVT-i and a flat, accessible torque curve. Output is rated at 381 hp and 401 lb-ft, plenty for a heavy, full-time 4×4 SUV with three rows and generous crash structures. The standard six-speed automatic includes a gated manual mode for controlled downshifts on grades. The transfer case is a two-speed unit with a 2.618:1 low ratio; up front sits a Torsen center differential that seamlessly shuffles torque while still allowing a mechanical lock for loose surfaces.
The chassis approach balances plush ride quality with predictable body control. A broad track and tall sidewalls deliver a planted highway feel, while the slow-ratio steering is tuned for stability and durability over feedback. Brake hardware is generously sized with ventilated discs front and rear, and A-TRAC traction control is calibrated to restrain wheelspin without beating up the driveline. Toyota’s Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS)—standard in later years of this period—uses hydraulically linked sway bars to keep roll in check on pavement yet allow extra articulation off road.
The 2013 update modernized the look (revised grille, lamps, LED DRLs) and standardized formerly optional equipment. More important for mixed-use owners, it made trail tech widely available, including Multi-terrain Select (tunable wheel-slip logic for various surfaces), Crawl Control (very low-speed throttle/brake modulated descent/ascend), and a Multi-terrain Monitor that helps you place wheels in tight spots. Cabin updates kept controls simple and robust: physical buttons for climate/audio, a straightforward shifter gate, and durable seat leather. Sound insulation and the V8’s smooth character make the Land Cruiser an easy long-haul companion.
As a used purchase, the URJ200 rewards careful maintenance. The powertrain is tolerant of miles, and consumables are shared across high-volume Toyota/Lexus models, keeping parts predictable. Fuel economy is modest (think mid-teens mpg mixed), but the tradeoff is unmatched longevity plus a genuine 8-passenger footprint that can tow confidently and reach trailheads many crossovers can’t.
URJ200 specifications and data
Below are the core technical specs for the 2008–2015 Land Cruiser with the 3UR-FE V8 in North American configuration. Figures reflect factory ratings and commonly cited official measurements for this generation.
Engine and Performance (ICE)
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Code | 3UR-FE |
| Layout & valvetrain | 90° V8, aluminum block/heads, DOHC, 4 valves/cyl, Dual VVT-i |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 × 102.0 mm (3.70 × 4.02 in) |
| Displacement | 5.7 L (5,663 cc) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port EFI |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Max power | 381 hp (284 kW) @ 5,600 rpm |
| Max torque | 544 Nm (401 lb-ft) @ 3,600 rpm |
| Timing drive | Chain |
| Emissions standard | ULEV-II (period-typical) |
| Rated efficiency (EPA) | ~15.7 L/100 km combined (15 mpg US / 18 mpg UK) |
| City / Highway | ~18.1 / 13.1 L/100 km (13 / 18 mpg US) |
| Real-world highway @ 75 mph | ~14–16 mpg US (16.8–14.7 L/100 km), load/tires dependent |
Transmission and Driveline
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic with manual gate (electronically controlled) |
| Transfer case | 2-speed, high 1.000:1 / low 2.618:1 |
| Drive type | Full-time 4×4 with Torsen® center diff; center diff lockable |
| Differentials | Open front/rear with A-TRAC brake-actuated traction control |
| Final drive | ~3.91:1 (typical for this configuration) |
| Refuel to full | ~5 minutes typical (ICE) |
Chassis and Dimensions
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Frame | Boxed ladder frame |
| Suspension (front/rear) | Independent double wishbone / 4-link solid axle, coil springs; KDSS on many later models |
| Steering | Hydraulic rack-and-pinion |
| Brakes | 4-wheel ventilated discs; multi-mode ABS, EBD, BA |
| Wheels/Tires | 285/60 R18 (18-in rims) |
| Ground clearance | ~225 mm (8.9 in) |
| Approach / Departure | ~30° / ~20° |
| Length / Width / Height | ~4,950 / ~1,970 / ~1,880 mm (~194.9 / ~77.6 / ~74.0 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2,850 mm (112.2 in) |
| Turning circle (curb-to-curb) | ~11.8 m (38.7 ft) |
| Curb weight | ~2,600–2,650 kg (~5,730–5,840 lb), equipment dependent |
| GVWR | ~3,350 kg (~7,385 lb) |
| Fuel tank | ~93 L (24.6 US gal / 20.5 UK gal) |
| Cargo volume* | ~456 / ~1,158 / ~2,314 L (16.1 / 40.9 / 81.7 ft³) — behind 3rd/2nd/1st (*SAE) |
Performance and Capability
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) | ~6.7–6.9 s (typical tests) |
| Top speed | ~112–130 mph (180–209 km/h), governed |
| 100–0 km/h braking | ~39–42 m (typical, tire-dependent) |
| Towing capacity | Up to 3,856 kg (8,500 lb), properly equipped |
| Payload | ~635–750 kg (1,400–1,650 lb), configuration dependent |
| Roof load | ~100 kg (220 lb) dynamic typical (check roof-rack label) |
Fluids and Service Capacities
| System | Spec / Capacity |
|---|---|
| Engine oil | SAE 0W-20 (later manuals) or 5W-30 (early years); ~7.5–7.9 US qt (7.1–7.5 L) w/ filter |
| Engine coolant | Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (pink), 50/50; ~12–13 L (~12.7–13.7 US qt) total system |
| ATF (automatic) | Toyota WS; service fill varies (~10–12 US qt / ~9.5–11.4 L) |
| Transfer case | Hypoid gear oil GL-5 75W-90; ~1.9 L (~2.0 US qt) |
| Front differential | GL-5 75W-90; ~1.5–1.6 L (~1.6–1.7 US qt) |
| Rear differential | GL-5 75W-90; ~3.0–3.3 L (~3.2–3.5 US qt) |
| A/C refrigerant | R-134a; ~700–800 g (24.7–28.2 oz) |
| A/C compressor oil | ND-OIL 8; ~120 mL (~4.1 fl oz) typical |
| Lug nut torque | ~131 Nm (97 lb-ft) |
| Oil drain plug | ~39 Nm (29 lb-ft) |
Electrical
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Alternator | ~130–180 A, equipment dependent |
| 12V battery | Group 27F (typical), ~70–80 Ah; ~650–750 CCA |
| Spark plugs | Long-life iridium (e.g., Denso SK20HR11); 1.1 mm (0.043 in) gap |
Safety and Driver Assistance
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Airbags | Up to 10 (front, side, curtain, knee; year-dependent) |
| Stability/traction | VSC, A-TRAC, Trailer Sway Control (later years) |
| Off-road aids | DAC/HAC; Multi-terrain Select & Crawl Control (2013+) |
| Headlights | Halogen/HID low-beam; DRLs (LED on 2013+) |
| Crash ratings | Vary by year/market; limited formal ratings; verify VIN for specific results |
URJ200 trims and safety
Trims and equipment (North America). The Land Cruiser was positioned as a single, fully equipped grade in this era. Core features across 2008–2012 include leather seating for eight, power-adjustable heated front seats, tri-zone climate control, a premium JBL audio/navigation system, and 18-inch wheels. Typical standalone options were a rear-seat DVD entertainment system and a cooler box integrated in the center console. From 2013 onward, Toyota made “everything standard” in North America: the rear-seat entertainment, cooler box, rain-sensing wipers, headlamp washers, and more. The 2013 refresh also brought a revised fascia, HID low-beams with LED DRLs, and technology adds such as Multi-terrain Select, Crawl Control, and a Multi-terrain Monitor. KDSS was widely fitted across later years to balance on-road roll control with off-road articulation.
Mechanical/functional differences by year. The 2008–2012 trucks deliver the same core powertrain and basic off-road hardware but lack the later trail electronics and some driver-assistance features. The 2013 facelift adds not only aids for slow-speed control but also a broader standard active-safety suite and lighting upgrades. Tow ratings remained robust throughout (when properly equipped) and the wiring/hitch preparation is cleanly integrated. Braking hardware stayed consistent: large ventilated discs with multi-mode ABS, brake assist, and electronic brakeforce distribution.
Safety systems and ADAS. All Land Cruisers here include Toyota’s stability system (VSC) and A-TRAC traction control. Trailer Sway Control arrives in later years. Airbag coverage expands to as many as 10 bags (front, side, full-length curtains, and driver knee), depending on model year. Driver-assistance in 2013+ includes Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and a Pre-Collision System; lane-keeping/centering was not part of this generation. HID headlamps improve low-beam throw after the refresh, and LED DRLs add daytime conspicuity. Child-seat provisions use LATCH/ISOFIX lower anchors and rear tether points, with second-row outboard seating positions best suited for most child seats.
Quick identifiers. The easiest ways to distinguish years: the 2013+ facelift has LED DRLs and subtly reshaped bumpers/grille; the presence of Crawl Control and Multi-terrain Select buttons on the center console confirms a facelifted vehicle. VIN build plates and option codes in the glovebox or door jamb can confirm KDSS and other equipment. A center console cool box lid and factory rear entertainment display indicate a 2013–2015 truck (as those items became standard).
Crash-test context. The Land Cruiser’s limited sales volume means fewer third-party crash tests than mass-market crossovers. Instead, rely on a VIN-specific check for recalls and service campaigns. Toyota’s hardware story is conservative and robust—strong structure, extensive airbags, and stability aids from launch—with meaningful lighting and active-safety improvements from 2013 onward.
Reliability and service actions
The 3UR-FE/AB-series drivetrain is well regarded for longevity. With routine fluids and cooling-system attention, the platform commonly exceeds 200–300k miles without major internal engine or transmission repairs. That said, owners and technicians have documented a predictable set of age- and mileage-related items for 2008–2015 trucks:
Common (low–medium cost)
- Water pump seepage (60–120k mi): Drips at the pump weep hole or white/pink crust on timing cover. Remedy: Replace pump, inspect belt and idlers; refresh coolant.
- Drive belts/idlers (100k+ mi): Chirp or glazing. Remedy: Replace belt and worn pulleys; verify alignment.
- Prop-shaft slip-yoke clunk (periodic): Thump on take-off/stop. Remedy: Grease splines; replace if wear is excessive.
- Exhaust manifold studs (varied): Tick on cold start; typically minor. Remedy: Replace studs/gaskets as needed.
Occasional (medium cost)
- KDSS hydraulic seep/leak (age/climate dependent): Lean or warning light. Remedy: Inspect accumulators/lines; repair or replace the affected component and bleed.
- Front wheel bearings (high dust/mud exposure): Hum/growl at speed. Remedy: Replace hub/bearing assembly, torque to spec, recheck preload.
- HVAC blend-door actuators: Clicking or uneven temps. Remedy: Replace actuator; recalibrate.
Less frequent but notable (medium–high cost)
- Secondary air injection (SAIS) system faults (earlier UR-series more prone): Limp mode, P244x/P041x codes. Remedy: Replace pump/valves; confirm harness and vacuum plumbing.
- Timing cover/cam tower oil seep (age): Oily residue at front cover seams. Remedy: Monitor if minor; reseal during major service.
- Brake booster/actuator assembly: Harsh pedal, persistent pump. Remedy: Replace unit; perform linear-valve calibration.
Recalls and field actions (high-level)
- Fuel pump (low-pressure, in-tank) on select later model-years: potential stalling risk. Action: Replace pump module with improved part; verify by VIN.
- Takata passenger airbag inflator (select years): inflator replacement where applicable.
- Software updates: Powertrain and audio/nav updates appear intermittently; ensure the latest calibrations, especially following actuator/ABS repairs.
How to verify service actions
- Run a VIN check through official recall databases and Toyota’s owner portal.
- Ask for dealer service printouts or receipts noting recall/TSB numbers.
- During a pre-purchase inspection, scan all modules for stored or history codes; some SAIS and ABS issues don’t light the dash immediately.
Operating conditions that accelerate wear
- Frequent short trips with long idle time (water pump and exhaust condensation).
- Dusty trails without frequent air-filter service (MAF contamination, accelerated bearing wear).
- Heavy towing on steep grades (ATF and diff heat; shorten fluid intervals).
- Road salt climates (brake lines, KDSS hard lines, fastener corrosion).
Maintenance and buyer guide
Practical service schedule (baseline; adjust for severe use and climate)
- Engine oil/filter: 10,000 mi / 12 mo with 0W-20 synthetic (later manuals); 5,000 mi if towing, dusty use, or short-trip duty.
- Engine air filter: Inspect 10k; replace 30k (sooner in dust).
- Cabin filter: 15–20k or annually.
- Spark plugs (iridium): 120k mi / 10 years.
- Coolant (SLLC pink): First at 100k mi / 10 years, then every 50k / 5 years.
- ATF (Toyota WS): “Lifetime” by book; for longevity, consider drain-and-fill every 60–90k mi if towing or hot-climate use.
- Transfer case & diffs (GL-5 75W-90): 30–60k mi depending on towing/water crossings.
- Brake fluid: 2–3 years. Inspect pads/rotors at every tire rotation; lube slide pins.
- Serpentine belt/idlers: Inspect each service; typically 90–120k replacement.
- KDSS inspection/bleed: Inspect lines and accumulators at each service; bleed if components replaced.
- Steering/suspension: Annual alignment check; bushings, ball joints, and tie-rod boots inspection.
- 12V battery test: Annually after year 4; replace ~5–7 years typical.
- Tire rotation: Every 5k mi; re-torque lugs to ~97 lb-ft.
Fluid notes and capacities (quick reference)
- Oil: ~7.5–7.9 qt with filter; 0W-20 preferred (later guidance), 5W-30 acceptable in early years/temperatures per manual.
- Coolant: ~12–13 L total; use Toyota SLLC pink premix.
- Transfer/diffs: Use GL-5 75W-90; change sooner after deep-water crossings.
- ATF: Toyota WS; use proper level-check procedure (temp-based).
- A/C: R-134a; charge by mass only—verify under-hood label.
Buyer’s checklist (what to inspect)
- Undercarriage and frame: Surface rust vs. scaling; KDSS hard lines; rear brake lines; fuel/EVAP lines at clips.
- Cooling system: Pump weep hole, radiator end tanks, hose condition, coolant history.
- KDSS components: Leaks at cylinders/accumulators; look for uneven ride height or warning light history.
- Driveline: Greaseable u-joints and slip yokes; check for clunk; inspect front CV boots.
- Brakes: Booster/actuator pump noise cycles; even pad wear; rotor thickness.
- Electrics: Seat heaters, rear entertainment (where fitted), parking sensors/cameras, steering-wheel heater (2013+).
- Tires/wheels: Uneven wear (alignment, bushing wear); confirm correct load rating.
- Towing setup: Factory hitch and 7-pin wiring condition; evidence of heavy towing (discolored ATF, rear sag).
- Interior: Third-row side-fold hinges/latches; sunroof drains; seat track function.
What years to seek
- 2013–2015 if you value factory trail tech and a “everything standard” spec; standardized options simplify shopping.
- 2008–2012 for value—same core powertrain and chassis, fewer gadgets to service, still highly capable. Ensure cooling system and any early SAIS concerns are sorted.
Durability outlook
With fluids on time and sensible use, the URJ200 is a 15- to 20-year platform. Expect occasional hydraulic and rubber replacements as it ages; the V8 and transmission are the long-life anchors of the vehicle. If you can afford the fuel and are disciplined about maintenance, it’s one of the most “forever SUV” choices you can buy used.
Driving and performance
Ride, handling, and NVH. The Land Cruiser feels heavy in a good way: steady on the highway, unbothered by crosswinds, and quiet over expansion joints thanks to long-travel suspension and tall-sidewall tires. Body roll is present but progressive, and KDSS keeps it better controlled than you’d expect when loaded with people and gear. Steering is deliberate and calm on center—great for interstate miles and rough washboard roads—while the brake pedal is firm with predictable bite.
Powertrain character. The 3UR-FE’s torque plateau starts early, with 90% of peak available well below 3,000 rpm. Throttle mapping is gentle off-idle to avoid lurching in low range. The six-speed automatic short-shifts in normal driving and willingly kicks down a gear or two for passing; manual gate control is helpful on long grades to hold a ratio and engine-brake with confidence. The low-range ratio of 2.618:1 combined with Crawl Control (2013+) makes controlled descents and rock gardens straightforward even for new drivers.
Measured performance. In stock trim on 18-inch all-terrains, expect ~6.7–6.9 s 0–60 mph runs. Braking distances hover around 39–42 m (100–0 km/h), improving with fresh pads/rotors and quality tires. Towing up to ~8,500 lb is within the chassis’ comfort zone when properly equipped; stability is excellent, and the transmission programming is conservative about heat. Add margin for tongue weight and watch rear-axle loads when using cargo plus a full cabin.
Efficiency and range. EPA ratings sit around 13/18/15 mpg US city/highway/combined (~18.1/13.1/15.7 L/100 km). Real-world mixed driving returns 13–15 mpg US depending on tires, lift/armor, and roof gear. At a steady 75 mph, plan for ~14–16 mpg US with stock ride height. In deep winter with remote starts and short trips, expect a 1–3 mpg penalty. Under moderate towing, fuel consumption typically worsens by ~25–40% depending on trailer size and terrain. The 24.6-gal tank yields a realistic 350–400-mile highway range if you keep speeds sensible.
Traction and control. Full-time 4×4 with a lockable center differential gives you secure on-road traction, and A-TRAC is tuned to clamp and shuffle power effectively on crossed-axle terrain. The system’s behavior improves with even, modest throttle—let the programming work. Multi-terrain Select (2013+) refines wheel-slip logic for mud/sand/rock settings; Crawl Control holds very low target speeds so you can focus on steering. Tire choice changes everything: light all-terrains preserve road noise and economy; more aggressive patterns add bite but cost you ~1 mpg and some braking distance on wet pavement.
Load and grades. With eight aboard and luggage, the Land Cruiser remains composed. On long mountain passes, use the manual gate to keep transmission temps in check and let the big V8 pull between 2,800–4,000 rpm. The cooling system is well engineered; fresh coolant, a healthy viscous fan, and clean condensers/radiators matter more than aftermarket fans for real heat management.
How Land Cruiser compares
Lexus LX 570 (2008–2015). The LX is the Land Cruiser’s luxury twin with more sound insulation, available Active Height Control, and softer default tuning. The driveline is the same and equally durable. The LX’s AHC system adds comfort and leveling but has more hydraulic components to maintain as it ages; the Toyota’s simpler setup is cheaper long-term.
Mercedes-Benz GL450/GL550 (X164 → early X166). More on-road agility and quieter at speed when new, with a broader spread of luxury features. Air-suspension and electronics can be expensive beyond warranty, and off-road geometry is less forgiving. If you live on highways and care about cabin polish, a well-kept GL can appeal; for decades of mixed terrain, the Toyota’s durability edge is decisive.
Land Rover LR4 / Range Rover (L322). Excellent ride quality, visibility, and off-road software with superb articulation. Ownership costs trend higher: cooling systems, air-suspension, and electronics need consistent attention. Choose a Land Cruiser if you prize low-drama logistics outside major metro service networks.
Nissan Armada / Infiniti QX56 (Y62 predecessor era). Strong V8s and generous interiors at lower prices. Frame/chassis are competent but not as overbuilt; off-road protection and aftermarket support are limited. Reliability is decent, though rust protection varies by climate.
Full-size body-on-frame SUVs (Tahoe/Suburban/Expedition). More cabin volume per dollar and abundant parts. However, low-range gearing, articulation, and long-distance durability under harsh use favor the Land Cruiser. If you need maximum cargo and a lower purchase price, a domestic full-size can fit; if you need a global-spec chassis that shrugs off rough tracks, the URJ200 is the safer bet.
Bottom line. The 2008–2015 Land Cruiser’s unique proposition is not raw luxury or headline performance; it’s the way everything keeps working after years of hard use. If you can live with mid-teens fuel economy and you buy a truck with verified maintenance and recall history, few SUVs match its whole-life value.
References
- Legendary Toyota Land Cruiser Receives Significant Enhancements for 2013 – Toyota USA Newsroom 2012 (Product Information)
- Fuel Economy of the 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser Wagon 4WD 2008 (EPA Ratings)
- Fuel Economy of the 2013 Toyota Land Cruiser Wagon 4WD 2013 (EPA Ratings)
- 2013 TOYOTA LAND CRUS 2013 (Recall Database)
- 2015 Toyota Land Cruiser WMG 2015 (Warranty and Maintenance Guide)
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes and does not replace professional diagnosis, repair procedures, or the official service literature for your exact VIN. Specifications, torque values, fluid types/capacities, safety ratings, and maintenance intervals can vary by year, market, equipment, and running changes. Always verify against your vehicle’s owner’s manual, the factory service manual, and official recall/TSB records. If you found this useful, please consider sharing it with fellow owners on Facebook or X/Twitter to support xcar’s work.