Four-cylinder LandCruiser 70 here this year

TOYOTA will offer four-cylinder turbo-diesel power in its LandCruiser 70 Series from the end of this year, confirming a report published by GoAuto earlier this year.

Joining refreshed styling, a new multimedia system and additional safety and convenience features, the HiLux-sourced 2.8-litre turbo-diesel ‘four’ will arrive as standard with a six-speed automatic transmission when sales commence in the fourth quarter of this year.

The new-to-LandCruiser drivetrain will be offered across the 70 Series line-up, which will continue to arrive in the choice of four body styles and in three grades.

The trusty 151kW (at 3400rpm) and 430Nm (from 1200 to 3200rpm) 4.5-litre V8 turbo-diesel and five-speed manual combination will continue to be offered concurrently, giving buyers what Toyota says is “more choice for this iconic four-wheel drive model”.

For the four-cylinder option in LandCruiser, we find 150kW of power at 3400rpm and peak torque of 500Nm between 1600 and 2800rpm, 70Nm more than the found in the larger capacity V8.

The unit will be offered in Workmate, GX and GXL single-cab utility and Workmate and GXL double-cab utility models, and in Workmate and GXL Troop Carrier and Wagon variants.

Visually, the updated LC70 is characterised by a redesigned front-end that draws inspiration from the 40 Series of the late 1960s. The interior is likewise revamped to “accommodate a number of substantial feature upgrades”.

These include a new instrument cluster with 4.2-inch multi-information display between the analogue dials, and a centre console that offers improved ergonomics and amenity. The multimedia system is also updated, the 6.7-inch touchscreen unit now compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

Toyota has also improved the safety technology offered in the LandCrusier 70 Series with lane departure alert, speed sign recognition and auto high beam “as part of the Toyota Safety Sense suite of advanced driver assistance features”.

Remarking on the updated workhorse, Toyota Australia president of sales, marketing and franchise operations, Sean Hanley, said the updates demonstrate Toyota’s commitment to continuing to meet the needs of Aussie customers.

“The LandCruiser 70 Series has built up a loyal and passionate fanbase with customers drawn to its rugged styling and legendary off-road performance and this substantially upgraded model builds upon those strengths,” he said.

“Now with a new powertrain including an automatic transmission for the first time, along with the significant increase in safety and convenience technology, the LC70 is an ideal vehicle for those working on the land or as a tool of trade and recreational users heading off on an outback adventure.”

Further details and specifications will be announced closer to the model’s Q4 launch.