1) Toyota Land Cruiser AT37 (Japan base)
What stands out:
If you phrase it that way, here’s how I’d evaluate:
My Verdict:
If I had to pick one “better” in a generic sense, I lean toward the Land Cruiser AT37 for sheer off-road seriousness and reliability in extreme conditions. But that’s because I’m assuming the use-case is “go anywhere, rough terrain, expedition”. If instead the use-case is “luxury overlander / showpiece / upscale 4×4 that can also go off-road”, then the Defender 110 AT35 might win in that category.
What stands out:
- The “AT37” name comes from its 37-inch tyres — huge.
- Substantial engineering: widened track, extended wheelbase, re-profiled frame & bodywork, bespoke suspension.
- Suspension: Two-way adjustable performance suspension plus about ~40 mm lift to fit those big tyres.
- Big tyres: BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO3 or Mud Terrain KM3 in 37×12.50 R17 or equivalent.
- Official partnership: It’s recognized by Toyota (in some markets) as an official version, giving it a strong “OEM+” credibility.
Pros & Things to Consider: - Pros: Excellent off-road capability, huge tyres allow serious performance in snow, sand, mud. The build is high quality.
- Considerations: Big tyres can affect fuel economy and ride behaviour on pavement; widebody + large tyres may complicate everyday usability (parking, manoeuvring).
- Powertrain isn’t necessarily altered massively (many articles show the major changes are mechanical/suspension/tyre rather than radical engine changes).
Summary: If you want a serious all-terrain monster with robust base vehicle and high build quality, the Land Cruiser AT37 is a very strong contender.
2) Land Rover Defender 110 AT35 (UK base)
What stands out:- The “AT35” name refers to its 35-inch tyres.
- Built by the same specialist company (Arctic Trucks) with wide-body treatment: huge wheel arches, big alloy wheels, heavy off-road styling.
- Suspension upgrades: For example with the L663 air suspension or optional Bilstein system with +15-20mm lift, depending on spec.
- The build is luxury + off-road: Defender platform offers more modern refinement, tech and desirability for luxury 4x4 buyers.
Pros & Things to Consider: - Pros: Strong off-road capability, premium badge, luxury features. The Defender has a more modern design, better on-road refinement (in many cases) compared to rugged trucks.
- Considerations: Even with the upgrades, maybe the base platform still has limitations compared to a vehicle designed primarily for extreme terrain (though much improved). The 35-inch tyres are slightly smaller than the Land Cruiser’s 37s in the other build. Also, cost: the conversion is expensive (the upgrade alone can run tens of thousands of pounds).
Summary: If you want a premium, stylish 4×4 with serious off-road chops, the Defender 110 AT35 is very appealing. Might balance luxury & capability more than a purely rugged build.
3) Japan vs UK: Which “Builds the Best Truck”?
If you phrase it that way, here’s how I’d evaluate:
| Criterion | Land Cruiser AT37 (Japan base) | Defender 110 AT35 (UK base) |
|---|---|---|
| Off-road extreme terrain (snow, sand, mud) | Very strong: huge tyres, serious modifications, proven heritage. | Also very capable, though slightly smaller tyres and slightly less extreme emphasis. |
| Build quality & reliability | Toyota heritage often means robust reliability; the AT37 build maintains OEM level fit and finish. | Defender base is strong, luxury orientation may mean more complexity, potentially higher maintenance if used hard. |
| On-road usability / refinement | Probably more utilitarian; huge tyres and wide body may compromise comfort & manoeuvring. | Possibly better on-road manners, more premium interior, plus off-road capability still very good. |
| Cost / value / exclusivity | May appeal to hardcore off-roaders and expedition types. Value may come from capability. | Premium price, unique builds, may appeal to luxury 4×4 buyers or brand conscious. |
| Overall “best” depends on use case | Best if used in harsh terrain, expedition, off-grid adventuring. | Best if you want a blend of off-road + luxury + brand prestige. |
My Verdict:
If I had to pick one “better” in a generic sense, I lean toward the Land Cruiser AT37 for sheer off-road seriousness and reliability in extreme conditions. But that’s because I’m assuming the use-case is “go anywhere, rough terrain, expedition”. If instead the use-case is “luxury overlander / showpiece / upscale 4×4 that can also go off-road”, then the Defender 110 AT35 might win in that category.