It’s the ultimate off-roader, the kind of vehicle that laughs at mud, rocks, and everything in between. With a legacy stretching back decades, it’s no surprise Toyota’s celebrating their 12th straight Dakar Rally win in the Stock class by launching the ultra-limited Land Cruiser 300 Rally Raid edition in Japan. Announced in September 2025, this special edition is a nod to the pair of tweaked Land Cruisers that took first and second at the January rally. But with only 12 complete builds available via lottery, it’s as rare as it is rugged. As someone who’s dreamed of conquering trails in a Land Cruiser, this edition has me geeking out. Let’s explore what makes it special, the upgrades, and how to snag one.
A Victory Lap for Dakar’s Unstoppable Duo
Toyota’s dominance at the 2025 Dakar Rally wasn’t luck—it was the result of battle-hardened Land Cruisers in the Stock class, proving the SUV’s real-world grit. To honor that 12th consecutive win, they’re offering the Rally Raid edition based on the GR Sport trim. It’s not a full overhaul, but the tweaks give it that authentic rally flair, from aggressive accents to performance bits inspired by the desert conquerors. Priced at 9,380,800 yen (about $63,526 USD), the complete vehicle is limited to just 12 units, available only through a lottery in Japan. If you miss out, there’s a 1,511,400 yen ($10,235 USD) accessories package (also limited to 12 sets, lottery-only), or buy parts separately from dealers starting November. It’s Toyota’s way of making the rally magic accessible, even if it’s tough to get.
Rally-Ready Upgrades That Scream Adventure
Starting with the GR Sport’s 3.3-liter turbodiesel V6 (303 hp, 516 lb-ft torque) paired to a 10-speed automatic, the Rally Raid amps up the off-road prowess without reinventing the wheel. Key additions include 18-inch Enkei PDT1 wheels wrapped in Toyo Open Country A/T III tires (285/60R18) for superior grip on loose terrain. Red brake calipers add a pop of color, while new springs, dampers, and body mounts enhance handling and “faithfully receive the driver’s intentions,” as Toyota puts it—though specifics on the suspension are light, it’s tuned for precise steering in rough conditions. Black accents on the lower side sills give it a stealthy, aggressive look, complemented by red tow hooks (two front, one rear) and Rally Raid-branded mud flaps. Inside, a Rally Raid plaque on the center console and a branded key chain seal the deal, with two-tone red-and-black leather/ultrasuede seats for that premium rally cockpit feel. It’s subtle but purposeful, turning the Land Cruiser into a street-legal Dakar warrior.
The Land Cruiser Family: More Than One Legend
It’s easy to think “Land Cruiser” means one SUV, but Toyota’s got a whole lineup. The Rally Raid uses the 300 series, the biggest and burliest, sold in the U.S. as the luxurious Lexus LX with five- or seven-seat options. Then there’s the 250 series, our U.S. Land Cruiser (or Prado elsewhere), which is selling like hotcakes and getting a slight 2026 price bump—Toyota’s betting on continued success. Rounding it out is the 70 series, a tough-as-nails icon from the 1980s (with updates), available as pickups or SUVs—even a 10-passenger version for NGOs like Doctors Without Borders. Each variant keeps the Land Cruiser spirit alive, from luxury cruisers to workhorses.
Snagging One: Lottery, Packages, or Parts?
For the full Rally Raid experience, enter the lottery for one of 12 complete builds—winners pay the premium for a turnkey rally tribute. The accessories package offers the same upgrades without installation, also limited to 12 via lottery. Or, starting November, grab individual parts from Japanese dealers for a DIY approach. It’s Toyota’s clever way to celebrate without flooding the market, keeping the edition exclusive.
A Must-Have for Off-Road Fans
As an off-road junkie who’s tackled trails in everything from Jeeps to Subarus, the Rally Raid edition is pure envy fuel. The Dakar wins prove the Land Cruiser’s mettle, and these upgrades make it even more capable without losing that iconic toughness. At $63,526, it’s a splurge, but for collectors or adventurers in Japan, it’s priceless. If you’re stateside, keep dreaming of the 250 series—maybe Toyota will bring rally flair here someday. What do you think—worth the lottery odds? Share in the comments; I’d love to hear from fellow Land Cruiser lovers.
Image Source- carbuzz.com
