An upgraded off-road classic that's built for a battering... if you can bring yourself to get it dirty
If you had to choose just the one piece of transport to survive apocalyptic conditions, the the Toyota Land Cruiser would be a safe bet. Forbidden by Toyota law from breaking down and engineered to survive everything short of a nuclear attack (though it would put up a good fight) these are off-road vehicles designed without compromise. The one you see here adds both essential style and all-important creature comforts, courtesy the off-road styling experts at Seeker UK of Chesterfield in Derbyshire.
Basis is the somewhat spartan short-wheelbase commercial version of the Land Cruiser, from the long-running 70 Series. The Toyota is brand new, so this is no restomod, but a conversion of a brand-spanking vehicle with all of the reassuring guarantees that Toyota offer. You might start by taking a look around the exterior.
Unique side decals are designed, say the good people at Seeker UK, to recall the 1980s. Seeker UK’s full black pack adds gloss black bumpers front and rear, with darkened privacy glass to rear side windows so that your golden labrador can travel in splendid anonymity. We like the way the huge mirrors to each side have their own chrome exteriors, to add a note of contrast. Wheels are a distinct upgrade too, now wearing burly all-terrain tyres.
If it all looks very accomplished, that’s because Seeker UK have impressive form in upgrading off-roaders. Operating from bespoke premises bordering the Peak District National Park, David Merifield, Lee French and their team emphasise their rural roots. These are not Land Cruisers designed for a quiet life as Chelsea tractors. Seeker UK aims, says the company, to create vehicles with "stunning road presence and off-road practicality”.
Toyota Land Cruiser by Seeker UK: Through the door
Take a look inside, though, for some very non-Land Cruiser creature comforts. Firstly, there’s now a rear seat is what was previously strictly a load bay. Secondly, both front and rear seating is retrimmed in lush tan leather. Dashboard features wood-like inserts and there’s a full sound system. Basically it’s a Rolls-Royce Cullinan but less annoying. A lot less annoying. Naturally all of the Land Cruiser’s legendary off-road capabilities remain, what with full-time four wheel drive and a gruff four litre engine. There’s a manual gearbox, and a selector for low range ratios. Take that, Rolls-Royce.
Unique too. You won't see another short wheelbase Land Cruiser on the road like this one. And as we’ve said, the bluff form follows function design adds to the appeal. What Seeker UK have done is create a unique go-anywhere fashion-forward four-wheel drive that your local Toyota dealer will be more than happy to look after for you. With the luxury additions, you’ll be comfortable too as you traverse deserts, mountains and the local supermarket car park. Cost? Surprisingly reasonable. The Land Cruiser is available from Seeker UK direct for £49,950 +VAT, or around £350,000 less than a Cullinan. Literally all the transport you’ll ever need, now and forever.
Next up: 10 Of the best off-road SUVs.
