Land Cruiser updated; new engine added

An icon in the world of hardcore 4x4s has been updated to soldier on where many others struggle. Toyota’s Land Cruiser 70 Series will now appeal to a broader audience with many changes to the vehicle.

24 Land Cruiser1

What’s new?

The revered Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series has received a new powertrain option, new styling, upgraded technology and an enhanced specification level.

Powertrain:

The big news with this upgrade must be the addition of the well-known 2.8 turbodiesel engine from the Hilux, Fortuner and Prado finding its way in under the bonnet of the Land Cruiser.

Prior to this point, the current-generation 70 Series range has been available with a 4.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol inline-6 (single and double cab pick-ups), a 4.2-litre naturally aspirated diesel and a 4.5-litre turbo-diesel V8. All these powertrains being mated to a manual transmission.

However, the upgraded Land Cruiser 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 in all body shapes. The engine is good for 150 kW and 500 Nm.

24 Land Cruiser2
24 Land Cruiser5
24 Land Cruiser2
24 Land Cruiser5

Exterior:

The updated Land Cruiser 70 Series – including the 4.0-litre petrol, 4.2- and 4.5-litre diesel models in both pick-up and station wagon configurations – is immediately recognisable thanks to its updated exterior styling, clearly influenced by previous generations of Land Cruiser.

A new square grille with a black mesh pattern and ‘TOYOTA’ lettering sits above a three-slot cooling vent inspired by the 75 Series Land Cruiser, with a small hood vent above the grille borrowed from the original 40 Series model. There is a wide bumper and dark grey metallic 16-inch alloy wheels.

Interior:

The VX variants adds further differentiation in the form of a Rockford Fosgate sound system. In addition, all the 70 Series grades gain a new centre console consisting of a lidded centre storage box, cupholder and multiple small item compartments.

Station 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.

All variants powered by the 2.8 GD-6 engine are upholstered in durable grey fabric, while the Station Wagon VX grades gain leather upholstery.

Four-cylinder versions gain Downhill Assist Control (DAC) for steady, controlled off-road descents. The Station Wagon VX variant also gains a new reversing camera.

24 Land Cruiser3
24 Land Cruiser4
24 Land Cruiser3
24 Land Cruiser4

Prices:

Single Cab:

LC79 4.0 Petrol S/C 5MT (R765 500), LC79 4.2 Diesel S/C 5MT (R829 000), LC79 4.5 Diesel V8 S/C 5MT (R956 200) and the LC79 2.8 GD-6 Diesel S/C 6AT (R917 100).

Double Cab:

LC79 4.0 Petrol D/C 5MT (R864 600), LC79 4.2 Diesel D/C 5MT (R920 800), LC79 4.5 Diesel V8 D/C 5MT (R1 039 200) and the LC79 2.8 GD-6 Diesel D/C 6AT (R1 009 000).

Station Wagon:

LC78 4.2 Diesel SW 5MT (R900 100), LC76 4.5 Diesel SW 5MT (R1 076 800), LC76 2.8 GD-6 Diesel SW 6AT (R999 900) and the LC 76 2.8 GD-6 VX Diesel SW 6AT (TBC).

More Product News stories

Mercedes-Benz unveils the new V-Class V300d in SA

Mercedes-Benz unveils the new V-Class V300d in SA

Mercedes-Benz has announced the arrival of the new V-Class V300d EXCLUSIVE in South Africa. Designed for those who appreciate refined quality and a striking presence on the road, the new V-Class combines captivating design, a luxurious interior and first-class comfort, redefining the art of stylish travel.

  • 31 October 2024
Kia’s bakkie is on its way to South Africa

Kia’s bakkie is on its way to South Africa

Kia’s brand-new double cab bakkie, called the Tasman, could be introduced in South Africa as early as the second half of 2025, says Paul Turnbull, CEO of Kia South Africa.

  • 29 October 2024
Jaecoo’s smaller J5 on its way to SA

Jaecoo’s smaller J5 on its way to SA

JAECOO’s new J5, which was revealed at the 2024 OMODA & JAECOO International User Summit in Wuhu, China, this October will soon be in South Africa.

  • 24 October 2024