2022 Land Cruiser GR Sport: Is It Worth It?

Nov 12, 2025 by Alex Braham 44 views

Hey guys! Thinking about snagging the 2022 Land Cruiser GR Sport? You're in the right spot. We're diving deep into what makes this beast tick, helping you decide if it's the right ride for your adventures. Let's get started!

What is the Land Cruiser GR Sport?

The Land Cruiser GR Sport isn't just another trim level; it's Toyota's way of injecting some serious Gazoo Racing DNA into their legendary off-roader. Gazoo Racing, for those not in the know, is Toyota's performance division, responsible for some seriously cool and capable machines. So, when they slap the GR Sport badge on something, you know it's been tweaked and tuned for enhanced performance and a more aggressive look. But what does that actually mean for the Land Cruiser? It means a whole host of upgrades, both cosmetic and functional, designed to make it even more formidable on and off the road. We're talking about things like specialized suspension tuning, unique styling cues, and some interior enhancements that set it apart from the standard Land Cruiser. This isn't just about looking the part; it's about enhancing the driving experience and giving you the confidence to tackle even tougher terrain.

One of the key things to understand about the GR Sport is that it's not necessarily about outright power. While it shares the same engine options as the regular Land Cruiser (depending on the market, of course), the focus is more on optimizing the existing power and torque for better performance in challenging conditions. Think of it as fine-tuning rather than a complete overhaul. This means you're still getting that reliable and robust Land Cruiser engine, but with some extra tweaks to make it more responsive and capable. For example, the suspension tweaks aren't just for show; they're designed to improve wheel articulation, allowing the vehicle to maintain better contact with the ground when traversing uneven surfaces. This translates to better traction and control, which can make a huge difference when you're navigating rocky trails or steep inclines. And it's not just about off-road performance either. The GR Sport also benefits from improved on-road handling, thanks to the suspension upgrades and other chassis enhancements. This means you can enjoy a more comfortable and confident ride, even when you're just cruising around town. In short, the Land Cruiser GR Sport is a comprehensive package of upgrades designed to enhance both the performance and the style of this iconic SUV. It's a statement that you're serious about off-roading, and you want a vehicle that's up to the task. But is it worth the extra cost? That's what we're here to find out.

Key Features of the 2022 Model

The 2022 Land Cruiser GR Sport is packed with features that set it apart. Let's break down the most important ones. Exterior enhancements include a unique front grille with the GR Sport badge, exclusive alloy wheel designs, and distinctive bumpers that give it a more aggressive stance. These aren't just cosmetic tweaks; they contribute to a more rugged and purposeful appearance. The interior gets a similar treatment, with GR-branded seats, a sporty steering wheel, and special trim elements that create a more premium and performance-oriented feel. But it's not just about looks. The GR Sport also boasts performance upgrades like a specially tuned suspension system that enhances both on-road handling and off-road capability. This suspension is designed to provide a more controlled and comfortable ride, whether you're navigating city streets or tackling rough terrain. Additionally, some models may include features like electronic locking differentials and crawl control, which further enhance its off-road prowess. And let's not forget about the advanced safety tech, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, ensuring that you and your passengers stay safe on every journey. All these features combine to make the 2022 Land Cruiser GR Sport a truly exceptional vehicle that's ready for anything you throw at it.

Delving deeper into the specifics, the exterior design of the 2022 Land Cruiser GR Sport is a masterclass in rugged elegance. The unique front grille, finished in a dark metallic hue, immediately sets it apart from the standard model. The GR Sport badge, proudly displayed, is a subtle nod to its performance-oriented nature. The exclusive alloy wheels, available in various designs, not only look great but also contribute to improved handling and stability. The distinctive bumpers, both front and rear, are designed to withstand the rigors of off-road driving, while also enhancing the vehicle's overall aesthetic appeal. Moving inside, the GR-branded seats provide excellent support and comfort, even on long journeys. The sporty steering wheel, wrapped in premium leather, feels great in your hands and gives you a sense of control. The special trim elements, such as carbon fiber accents and aluminum pedals, add a touch of sophistication and sportiness to the cabin. But the real magic happens under the skin. The specially tuned suspension system is the key to the GR Sport's enhanced performance. It's designed to provide a more controlled and comfortable ride, whether you're navigating city streets or tackling rough terrain. The electronic locking differentials ensure that power is distributed evenly to all four wheels, maximizing traction in challenging conditions. And the crawl control system allows you to maintain a constant speed while traversing difficult obstacles, giving you the confidence to tackle even the most demanding trails. In addition to these performance-enhancing features, the 2022 Land Cruiser GR Sport also comes standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies. Adaptive cruise control helps you maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you, while lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane. Automatic emergency braking can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes to help prevent or mitigate an accident. All these features work together to make the 2022 Land Cruiser GR Sport a safe, capable, and stylish SUV that's ready for anything you throw at it.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance and handling, the Land Cruiser GR Sport truly shines. The suspension tweaks are the star here, offering a noticeable improvement in both on-road comfort and off-road capability. Body roll is reduced in corners, and the ride feels more planted and controlled. Off-road, the enhanced suspension allows for greater wheel articulation, helping you conquer challenging terrain with ease. The engine, while not unique to the GR Sport, is still a powerhouse, providing plenty of torque for climbing hills and navigating obstacles. The transmission is smooth and responsive, and the four-wheel-drive system is robust and reliable. Overall, the GR Sport delivers a confident and capable driving experience, whether you're cruising down the highway or exploring the backcountry.

Let's dive deeper into what makes the performance and handling of the Land Cruiser GR Sport so impressive. The suspension tweaks are not just a marketing gimmick; they genuinely transform the way the vehicle drives. The engineers at Gazoo Racing have carefully calibrated the dampers and springs to provide a balance between comfort and control. On the road, this translates to a smoother, more refined ride. The vehicle feels more stable and planted, even when cornering at higher speeds. Body roll is noticeably reduced, giving you more confidence behind the wheel. Off-road, the enhanced suspension allows for greater wheel articulation. This means that the wheels can move independently of each other, allowing the vehicle to maintain contact with the ground even when traversing uneven surfaces. This is crucial for maximizing traction and preventing the vehicle from getting stuck. The engine, while shared with other Land Cruiser models, is still a force to be reckoned with. It delivers plenty of torque at low RPMs, which is essential for climbing hills and navigating obstacles. The transmission is smooth and responsive, providing seamless shifts and optimal power delivery. The four-wheel-drive system is robust and reliable, capable of handling even the most demanding terrain. It features a variety of modes, including low-range gearing and locking differentials, which allow you to customize the vehicle's performance to suit the conditions. In addition to these mechanical enhancements, the GR Sport also benefits from a range of electronic driver aids. These include features like traction control, stability control, and hill descent control, which help you maintain control of the vehicle in challenging situations. Overall, the Land Cruiser GR Sport delivers a driving experience that is both exhilarating and confidence-inspiring. It's a vehicle that's equally at home on the highway and in the wilderness, making it a truly versatile and capable SUV.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside the Land Cruiser GR Sport, you'll find a blend of luxury and practicality. The GR-branded seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long drives. The cabin is spacious and well-appointed, with high-quality materials used throughout. Technology is also a highlight, with a large infotainment screen, a premium sound system, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance features. However, some may find the infotainment system a bit dated compared to newer systems on the market. Overall, the interior of the GR Sport is a pleasant place to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on an off-road adventure.

Let's take a closer look at the interior comfort and technology features of the Land Cruiser GR Sport. The GR-branded seats are a standout feature, providing exceptional comfort and support. They're designed to conform to the contours of your body, reducing fatigue on long drives. The seats are also heated and ventilated, ensuring that you stay comfortable in any weather conditions. The cabin itself is spacious and well-appointed, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. High-quality materials are used throughout, creating a premium and luxurious feel. The dashboard is well-organized and easy to navigate, with all the essential controls within easy reach. The infotainment system is a central hub for entertainment and information. It features a large touchscreen display, which provides access to navigation, audio, and other vehicle settings. The system also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. The premium sound system delivers crisp and clear audio, enhancing your listening experience. The Land Cruiser GR Sport also comes standard with a suite of advanced driver-assistance features. These include features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, which help you stay safe on the road. While the infotainment system is functional and easy to use, some may find it a bit dated compared to newer systems on the market. The graphics are not as sharp, and the response times can be a bit slow. However, this is a minor quibble, and overall the interior of the GR Sport is a comfortable, luxurious, and well-equipped space.

Pros and Cons

Every vehicle has its pros and cons, and the Land Cruiser GR Sport is no exception. On the plus side, it offers exceptional off-road capability, a comfortable and well-appointed interior, and a strong and reliable engine. On the downside, it's expensive, fuel economy is not great, and the infotainment system could use an update. Ultimately, whether the pros outweigh the cons depends on your individual needs and priorities.

Let's break down the pros and cons of the Land Cruiser GR Sport in more detail. Pros:

Exceptional Off-Road Capability: This is where the GR Sport truly shines. With its specialized suspension, electronic locking differentials, and crawl control system, it can tackle even the most challenging terrain with ease. If you're an avid off-roader, this is a major selling point.
Comfortable and Well-Appointed Interior: The GR Sport offers a luxurious and comfortable interior, with premium materials, supportive seats, and a range of advanced features. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip, you'll appreciate the comfort and convenience of the cabin.
Strong and Reliable Engine: The Land Cruiser's engine is known for its durability and reliability. It provides plenty of power and torque, making it well-suited for both on-road and off-road driving.

Cons:

Expensive: The GR Sport is one of the most expensive Land Cruiser models. If you're on a tight budget, this may be a barrier to entry.
Fuel Economy: Fuel economy is not a strong point of the Land Cruiser. Its large size and powerful engine mean that it consumes a significant amount of fuel. If you're concerned about fuel costs, this is something to consider.
Infotainment System: While the infotainment system is functional, it's not the most advanced on the market. The graphics are a bit dated, and the response times can be slow. If you're looking for the latest and greatest technology, you may be disappointed.

Overall, the Land Cruiser GR Sport is a highly capable and luxurious SUV. However, it's also expensive and fuel-thirsty. Whether the pros outweigh the cons depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you value off-road capability and interior comfort above all else, then the GR Sport may be the perfect vehicle for you. However, if you're on a budget or concerned about fuel economy, you may want to consider other options.

Is It Worth It?

So, is the 2022 Land Cruiser GR Sport worth the investment? If you're a serious off-roader who values capability and luxury, then the answer is likely yes. The GR Sport offers a unique combination of performance enhancements and premium features that set it apart from the standard Land Cruiser. However, if you primarily drive on paved roads and don't need the extra off-road prowess, then you may be better off with a less expensive trim level. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual needs and priorities. Consider how you'll be using the vehicle and what features are most important to you. If the GR Sport checks all the boxes, then it's definitely worth a look.

Let's delve deeper into the question of whether the 2022 Land Cruiser GR Sport is worth the investment. To make an informed decision, it's essential to consider your specific needs and priorities. If you're a passionate off-roader who frequently ventures into challenging terrain, then the GR Sport's enhanced capabilities will be a significant advantage. The specialized suspension, electronic locking differentials, and crawl control system provide a level of performance that's simply not available on other Land Cruiser models. These features will allow you to tackle tougher trails with greater confidence and control. Additionally, the GR Sport's rugged exterior design and premium interior appointments will appeal to those who value both style and substance. However, if you primarily drive on paved roads and rarely venture off the beaten path, then the GR Sport's off-road enhancements may be overkill. In this case, you may be better off with a less expensive Land Cruiser trim level, which will still provide a comfortable and capable driving experience. It's also important to consider the cost of ownership. The GR Sport is one of the most expensive Land Cruiser models, and its fuel economy is not great. If you're on a tight budget or concerned about fuel costs, then you may want to explore other options. Ultimately, the decision of whether to purchase the 2022 Land Cruiser GR Sport is a personal one. It depends on your individual needs, priorities, and budget. If you value off-road capability, luxury, and style above all else, then the GR Sport may be the perfect vehicle for you. However, if you're looking for a more practical and affordable option, then you may want to consider other alternatives.

In conclusion, the 2022 Land Cruiser GR Sport is a fantastic vehicle with a lot to offer. Weigh your options carefully to make the best choice for you!