TOYOTA'S huge Land Cruiser off-roader is one of those vehicles which simply cannot be ignored.

Subtle it ain't, sophistication is not in great supply and a tank is probably more aerodynamic.

But for those who love their full-fat in your face seven-seat off-roaders it certainly doesn't disappoint.

As an off-road, go-anywhere vehicle, there are few which come close. It has proved its worth from the polar icecaps to the dense jungles and forbidding terrains around the globe.

The firm's 4x4 pedigree dates back 60 years and the latest version is a huge beast, sitting high off the road and offering a commanding driving position. It comes in three trim levels, Active, Icon and Invincible and in three or five store body style.

There is a single engine available, a 2.8-litre turbo diesel mated to either a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox on Icon and Invincible models.

All are well equipped but the luxurious range-topping Invincible is spectacularly equipped and includes all the bells and whistles, from TV, high-end infotainment system, leather, powered heated and cooled seats, colour parking camera and a list of goodies a long as your arm.

It looks boxy, with flared wheel arches, but has neat styling cues like the large chrome grille which blends into the stylish light clusters which also include daytime running lights, plus deep front bumper.

The entire structure is set higher says Toyota to make it less vulnerable to damage when driving off-road.

Chrome finish abounds including the roof rails, door mirror trim and running boards.

Access to the rear of the vehicle is via a side-hinged tailgate, which includes a top-hinged glass hatch, giving easy access to the load space, particularly in tight parking spots where opening of the full tailgate might be difficult.

The boot door gives access to the two rearmost seats which fold flat in the cargo area and can be electrically released by the push of a switch.

Inside the feeling of vastness is continues. Five adults can be seated in comfort on the leather seats, while the cabin, although luxurious feels a bit dated.

Having said that the dials, switchgear and controls are all handily placed.

The centre console features a seven-inch colour display unit where connectivity, navigation, apps and sound system can be accessed.

It is intuitive and easy to use.

Piano black and wood grain finishes, reminiscent of sister company Lexus, give a classy touch which also transfers to the steering huge steering wheel.

The driver's seat has electric eight-way adjustment with power lumbar control and heating on Icon and Invincible versions

Offroad controls are via a dial located along with the centre and rear differential locking switches on the centre console. Using these switches in combination lets the driver choose various offroad modes, from thepermanent all wheel drive right through to low-gear crawl to get through the really rough stuff - should you happen to be in the Amazon.

Road manners are decent, but don't go throwing into corners if you suffer from seasickness. A Range Rover will handle better but will cost considerably more, but the Toyota's ride is comfortable enough.

The 174bhp engine offers plenty of grunt and torque and for those interested, it will get you 60mph in just under 13 seconds. The 450Nm of torque will also power you up the steepest of muddy inclines.

The six-speed automatic gearbox is also slick enough. Performance is not really the point of this car.

Fuel economy is claimed at around 39mpg. Good luck with that, while emissions will make it expensive to run and tax as a company vehicle.

However, this is a fine motor. Slightly agricultural it may be, but with a starting prices in the mid-£30,000s for a full seven seater with a legendary reputation, it has plenty to offer including a give-year/100,000 mile warranty.