Revised LandCruiser 70 Series arrives

TOYOTA has launched its revised LandCruiser 70 Series and, as expected, it features a new 4.5-litre common-rail direct-injection intercooled turbo-diesel V8 – a version of which is due to appear on the all-new LandCruiser 200 Series wagon later this year.

A wagon variant of the workhorse range (which continues in cab-chassis and troop carrier guise as well) is also now available for the first time.



Replacing the previous 4.2-litre naturally aspirated and turbocharged six-cylinder oil-burners, Toyota’s first turbo-diesel V8 engine meets the Euro IV emissions standard and produces 151kW at 3400rpm and 430Nm from 1200rpm to 3200rpm.

The new turbo-diesel V8 engine, which is now standard across the 70 Series range, has 23.7 per cent more power and 13.1 per cent more torque than the previous six-cylinder turbo-diesel engine.

Fuel economy has also improved slightly for the respective models over the superseded straight-six turbo-diesel.

Other mechanical changes to the range include a wider track, revised suspension and improved steering feel.

The full range of cab-chassis, wagon and troop carrier models has gained an engine immobiliser, CD player with MP3 compatibility and a new grille, headlamps, front fenders and front bumpers.

“By consistently delivering reliability and durability, as well as legendary off-road and towing capabilities, the LandCruiser 70 Series has maintained a loyal following that is both unique and enduring,” said Toyota Australia’s senior executive director sales and marketing, David Buttner.

“The foundations for the market leadership that Toyota enjoys today were laid by the first batch of two-door LandCruiser FJ25s that worked on the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme in 1958.

“The highest-quality engineering values instilled in that period have permeated the company and rippled through the Toyota brand - in all its models and different variants - ever since.” The facelifted LandCruiser 70 Series range is now on sale priced from $53,490 for the cab-chassis Workmate - an increase of $1440 or 2.8 per cent over the previous entry-level six-cylinder turbo-diesel.