SYDNEY: The next chapter in the story of the venerable Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series is set to begin with the Australian arrival of the heavily upgraded 4x4 range, sporting new styling, upgraded technology, and a second powertrain option never before offered on the 70 Series.
Since its launch in 2007, the current-generation LandCruiser 70 Series has been available exclusively with the 1VD-FTV 4.5-litre turbo-diesel V8 engine and five-speed manual transmission.
However, the upgraded LandCruiser introduces the 1GD 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, for the first time in the 70 Series.
The versatile 70 Series range is offered in five-door Wagon, three-door Troop Carrier, and Single and Double-Cab Chassis configurations.
All models are available with both powertrain options except the Workmate 76 Series Wagon, which is only available with the 2.8-litre four-cylinder engine.
2024 Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series: GX Single Cab Chassis
Toyota Australia Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley said the upgraded LandCruiser 70 Series would benefit a wide range of customers looking for a tough and capable 4x4.
“For decades, the 70 Series has been the vehicle of choice for the farming, mining and agricultural sectors, as well as a favourite of off-roading and overlanding enthusiasts,” Mr Hanley said.
“The introduction of the new powertrain will not only broaden the appeal of the 70 Series range to more customers, but helps reduce weight, improve payload and reduce fuel consumption compared to the V8, delivering on customer demands.
“It gives our customers the power of choice between the torque-rich four-cylinder automatic and the tried-and-true manual V8 across all four 70 Series body styles, providing a wide range of alternatives for buyers.”
The new 2.8-litre four-cylinder powertrain has been proven over the years in a range of Toyota 4x4 models and produces 150kW at 3400rpm and 500Nm from 1600-2800rpm, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
Multiple mechanical changes have been made to the engine specifically for the 70 Series to ensure optimal cooling and performance in tough conditions and under heavy towing loads, with all models of the 70 Series’ maintaining a strong 3500kg braked towing capacity.
The 4.5-litre turbo-diesel V8 produces 151kW at 3400rpm and 430Nm from 1200-3200rpm and, paired with a five-speed manual, will continue to be offered on all 70 Series variants with the exception of the 76 Series WorkMate.
As before, the LandCruiser 70 Series range is equipped with a part-time 4x4 system with low-range gearing, durable live axles and front coil suspension.
2024 Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series: GXL Double Cab Chassis
All GXL grades add front and rear locking differentials for ultimate off-road traction, which are optionally available on the GX Single-Cab Chassis and WorkMate Double-Cab Chassis.
The updated LandCruiser 70 Series is immediately recognisable thanks to its updated exterior styling, clearly influenced by previous generations of LandCruiser.
The halogen headlamp cluster has been replaced by circular LED headlamps with manual levelling and Automatic High Beam, with outboard turning lamps that hark back to the pre-2007 70 Series.
A new square grille with a black mesh pattern and ‘TOYOTA’ lettering sits above a three-slot cooling vent inspired by the 75 Series LandCruiser, with a small hood vent above the grille borrowed from the original 40 Series model.
A wide bumper and black overfenders give the 70 Series a muscular stance and sense of stability, paired on GX and GXL grades with dark grey metallic 16-inch alloy wheels.
The retro-inspired changes continue inside the cabin with a new-look instrument cluster designed to resemble the speedometer of the 40 Series, with the addition of a 4.2-inch colour multi-information display.
2024 Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series: GXL Double Cab Chassis
A new 6.7-inch multimedia system is compatible with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and offers hands-free smartphone pairing supported by new switches mounted on the steering wheel.
Below the air-conditioning unit, a 12V power outlet, two USB-C ports on GXL and bank of switches provide extra functionality and smartphone charging options.
The fitment of a new automatic transmission has meant 1GD-equipped grades gain a new centre console consisting of a lidded centre storage box, cupholder and multiple small item compartments.
Wagon variants are made more functional with new second-row seats with 60:40 split folding functionality, and can be tumbled forward to maximise cargo space.
WorkMate and GX variants are upholstered in durable vinyl trim, while GXL grades gain grey fabric upholstery.
The comprehensive update also ushers in new safety features for the 70 Series range, starting with lane departure alert which will issue audible warnings if the system detects the vehicle is leaving its lane.
2024 Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series: GXL Wagon
Road sign assist is linked with the multi-information display to read speed signs and display the current speed limit, which can be used to alert drivers if they are exceeding the speed limit by reversing the colours on the display.
Automatic high beam is provided by the new standard LED headlights, which can automatically dim the high beams if the system detects a vehicle in front, and will automatically reactivate the high beams once the vehicle is gone.
Four-cylinder versions gain downhill assist control for steady, controlled off-road descents, automatically modulating the brakes to safely navigate steep declines.
Wagon variants also gain a new reversing camera with static guidelines, helping to make parking in tight spaces easier.
The new features join the existing Toyota Safety Sense features including the Pre-Collision System with pedestrian and daytime cyclist detection and intersection assistance.
The LC70’s classic colour palette continues with French Vanilla, Silver Pearl, Graphite, Merlot Red, Sandy Taupe and Midnight Blue, while the Wagon adds a new Eclipse Black hue.
