A HIGH tech device to help drivers negotiate tight bends is making its debut on Toyota's new Land Cruiser V8 off-roader.

The Turn Assist system is designed for low speed use off-road and works by reducing the vehicle's turning circle.

It's part of a sophisticated array of electronics Toyota is deploying on the new version of its flagship 4x4 which is due on sale in March.

Other features include a multi-view camera system giving a 360 degree view around the vehicle, voice control sat nav and a five mode drive system to help tackle a variety of conditions.

The new model was revealed at the Brussels Motor Show this week, 61 years after the original Land Cruiser was launched.

Inside, the vehicle has been given extra luxury tweaks including a heated steering wheel, vented front seats which can cool as well as warm and upgrades to the trim.

There are also new style 20-inch alloy wheels, a power operated tailgate and ultra-bright bi-xenon headlamps.

The 4.5-litre diesel V8 engine develops 286bhp and has been uprated to meet the latest European emission standards.

To keep the model on par with the likes of the Range Rover, Toyota has made significant changes to the Land Cruiser's off-road abilities.

The Turn Assist function is a world first and can help drivers execute very tight turns without having to reverse mid-bend.

Operating at speeds below 6mph, it reacts to the driver's steering inputs, braking the rear wheel on the same side of the vehicle as the direction of turn. The wheel braking force automatically increases with the steering angle, reducing the vehicle's turning radius.

The Multi-terrain Select system varies traction depending on the terrain with different outputs for the likes of mud, rocks or snow while the angle of the wheels is also displayed on the control panel.

Low speed climb and descent performance has been beefed up with Crawl Control which now has seven speed settings.

Prices and final UK specifications have still to be announced but the Land Cruiser is already in the premier 4x4 league costing more than £60,000.