LandCruiser LC79 Series 4WD Ute upgraded

Toyota LC79 Series Ute launched December 1 2023 Update

Toyota LC79 Series work Utes launched. In the article below there is a lot of information, but in this update, we will go over the highlights ands well as pricing for the updated LC79 series Utes.

There is a revised frontal lighting, bonnet and grill design. Very retro and practical.

On both engine versions Toyota has raised the frontal air flow a touch on the revised grill, to ensure the radiator didn’t need to be lowered. This helps to avoid staking on no road situations.

This is combined with the removal of the bonnet air scoop. There is a bulge on the bonnet now, I’m not a fan, but there is a larger intercooler.

The LC79 Series comes in two body styles the single cab chassis and dual cab chassis.

It comes with a choice of two engines that defines the transmission choices.

• The traditional 1VD-FTV 4.5-litre turbodiesel V8 engine and five-speed manual transmission.
• The modified 1GD 2.8-litre turbodiesel four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

The benefits of the 1GD 2.8-litre turbodiesel four-cylinder engine in the LC79 series

• Same power and 70Nm more torque
• Six Speed Automatic transmission with torque converter
• More functionality, with DAC, 2^nd gear start, PWR haul functionality.
• The internal layout means that there is a slot for a phone and an extra cup/bottle holder with the AT
• Better economy and lower emissions
• Lighter body weight and more payload
• Around $4,000 cheaper in every model variant.

Toyota LC79 Series Final thoughts

There is a lot of information below, so I thought it best to put my final thoughts up front.

The LC79 Series Utes are legendary for a reason, they are bloody awesome.

They are expensive, very expensive, but unless you go to a small 4WD truck there isn’t anything that truly compares.

I have always loved the 4.5L V8 in the 79 series. And always wanted an AT for it. It sounds angry and that’s a good thing.

Buyers now have a choice between the traditional V8 and the cheaper, modified 4 Cylinder with an Automatic transmission and a bunch of extra functionalities that comes with that.

It’s a no brainer really, the 4 Cylinder is better in almost 99% of applications.

Toyota LC79 Update Video

LC79 Series Driving impressions

Let me start out by saying that I have always been a massive fan of the V8 LC70 series vehicles. I have friends on farms that have several of them, some with over 500,000kms on them. They are robust, reliable, and just keep going.

The low torque delivery made the V8 useable for many applications.

But the one thing I always questioned was why we got the lower tune V8 and why no Auto transmission.

Well, we are halfway there now. The LC70 series comes with the six-speed automatic transmission from the HiLux and Prado. It’s been beefed up a tad though.

Surely an Auto box on a 4-cylinder engine won’t make much difference.

I could have not been more wrong.

I drove both back-to-back over many scenarios. Towing a 3T plus off-road van, climbing over rocky, hilly trails, on the open road and station tracks. And over moguls that are designed to test the torque delivery and articulation.

What is the auto like?

Most of the real benefits that come with the upgraded model come because of the 6Sp AT.

So, let’s break it down: In the different scenarios what was the new 4 Cylinder and 6 Sp AT like

Towing – the AT torque converter meant that starting off and changing through the gears was smoother than the V8. It was also subjectively faster off the mark and through the gears as well. We had 3T on the back and it didn’t fuss at all.

Also, it has the PWR Haul functionality that keeps the transmission in lower gear for longer, allowing more controlled acceleration with a big load on the back.

Open Road

On the open road: Here there was little difference as once you are underway the older V8 allows you to go pretty much anywhere in top gear. However, the AT was smoother and easier to drive. It also was quieter. We didn’t get a chance to test the fuel economy, but subjectively it should be better. Toyota says its 10% better.

Remember we are pushing a 2.2T brick through the wind.

Climbing slippery, rocky trails: no comparison here. The 6Sp AT was simply better. With 2^nd gear start if its really slippery, and the torque converter allowing linear delivery of power, the auto was streets ahead of the old manual V8.

Steep downhill descents:  here the DAC on the auto transmission was excellent. It went about its business without fuss. There was a reasonably steep slope on a rock wall and the AT simply crawled down.

I have to say that the old V8 in low range and first gear would have done just as good a job, if not marginally better.

Going down slippery loose rock trails the auto cruiser again performed better than the older V8 Manual.

Moguls: here the auto transmission allowed a smoother torque delivery and when combined with the traction control, ensured easy driving when the wheels were hung up.

What is the 1GD-FTV 2.8-litre turbodiesel four-cylinder engine like?

I was skeptical of this engine in a 70 series. I was wrong.

Same power and more torque. At around 1200rpm the 4 Cylinder matches the V8 peak torque, and it has another 70Nm in reserve.

Less fuel use and smoother delivery.

The only thing is that where the V8 growls like its angry, the 4 Cylinder has a more muted cranky sound.

So overall driving impressions?

Most of the improvements to the upgraded model come because of the introduction of the 6Sp automatic transmission.

It completely transforms the LC70 series vehicles.

It is more user friendly, easier to drive both on and off road. Its better towing as well.

We just happen to get the AT with the improved 4 Cylinder engine.

The reality, as mentioned elsewhere in this article, is that without the shift to the 4 Cylinder engine with the 6 Sp AT in a few years we wouldn’t have the LC70 series at all.

Some general thoughts on LC70 Series wait times.

• Orders for the LC70 series vehicles are still on pause.
• Toyota sells about 12,000 of these a year.
• There is an allocation of 4,000 4-cylinder vehicles coming in the next 12 months.
• These will be offered to existing customer orders first.
• Buyers can choose if they want to take the new motor option or wait for their V8 engine model.
• Only after every existing customer order is offered the new 4 Cylinder model and if there are any not taken, will they become available to the general public.
• Toyota doesn’t expect that to happen. They expect all will be taken by existing orders.
• There is still a wait of 12 month plus for the V8 models from order. This will come down as some buyers will take the 4 Cylinder model instead.
• Toyota are expecting that in the next 12 months the mix will be 50/50 between the two engines.
• There was no word as to when the orders will be opened again, other than saying only when they can supply vehicles to customers in a timely fashion.
• Even though Toyota executives went to great lengths to stress that the V8 engine is still available, I’m betting it is well and truly on its last legs.
• The plain truth is that having the 4 Cylinder engine will allow the 70 series vehicles to continue to exist.
• That is a good thing. We need vehicles with personality like the 70 series in this increasingly homogenised, EV world.

Some general thoughts on the LC79 Series Utes

• First up, I LOVE them. I’ve driven them on farms for years and they are awesome.
• They are almost indestructible work Utes.
• I have mates that have some on farms that have 400k, 500k 600k plus on them and still never missing a beat.
• They are still bloody expensive, but the 4 Cylinder is cheaper than the V8.
• I’m still trying to wrap my head around paying almost $77,000 for a work Ute that has wind up windows, no digital clock, no USBC ports or 12V outlet.
• I would have to flip the window winder as when the windows are all the way up the winder knob sticks right into my knee.
• There is no reverse camera, that is a big issue. 
• At least the filler neck for fuel has a decent angle on it (on Toyota fitted trays) to allow ease of filling.
• I love the front quarter widows in the workmate
• On top of that they have those ridiculous hand adjusted external rear view mirrors that are just a pain in urban areas. Almost every time I’m in a car park they are bumped.
• I know they say that the tray width is the reason for them, but really?
• The new central touch screen with smart phone connectivity is an improvement over what it replaced. But Toyota could do better easily.
• The internal lighting is pathetic and looks like it comes from the same spare parts bin that my 1986 HJ60 Sahara had.
• I prefer the vinyl style seats in the GX to the fabric seats in the GXL. If I bought one I would replace the fabric ones immediately.

LC79 Series 4WD System

As before, the LandCruiser 70 Series range is equipped with a part-time 4×4 system with low-range gearing, durable live axles, and front coil suspension.

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.

Four-cylinder versions gain downhill assist control for steady, controlled off-road descents, automatically modulating the brakes to safely navigate steep declines.

Other features that come with the Automatic transmission are 2^nd gear start for slippery conditions, and PWR Haul functionality.

More engine details for the LC70 Series.

The new 2.8-litre four-cylinder powertrain has been proven over the years in a range of Toyota 4×4 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 Cylinder choice helps reduce weight, improve payload, and reduce fuel consumption compared to the V8. Toyota mentioned that the 4 Cylinder engine is about 65 kg lighter over the front axles, which is both good and bad. More details in the driving impressions.

Fuel consumption is rated at 9.6 litres per 100km based on Toyota Motor Corporation figures achieved on a similar test to the Australian ADR81/02 combined cycle test.¹

The 4.5-litre turbodiesel 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 except for the 76 Series WorkMate.

Let’s chat quickly about torque. The V8 has always been know for impressive useable low-down torque. That remains the same. Maximum torque comes in around 1200rpm for the V8 with a flat torque curve.

However, the 4-cylinder engine has a more impressive torque curve. And the key is that at 1200rpm the 4 Cylinder engine has the same torque, 430Nm as the V8. It then goes on to a higher 500Nm of available torque in an equally flat delivery.

Below about 1000 rpm the V8 does have more torque, but the Automatic transmission torque converter accounts for that easily.

Even more details on the 1GD-FTV 2.8-litre turbodiesel four-cylinder engine.

For the first time since the current-generation LandCruiser 70 Series was introduced in 2007, customers will be offered the choice of two powertrains with the introduction of the 1GD-FTV 2.8-litre turbodiesel four-cylinder engine.

Offering increased torque with around 10 per cent reduced fuel consumption compared to the V8, the four-cylinder engine is mated exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Already tried and tested in a bevy of Toyota 4×4 models, the venerable 1GD engine features several small modifications to ensure its long-term durability and capability operating in often harsh conditions for extended periods.

Despite its smaller capacity and fewer cylinders compared to the V8, the 2.8-litre turbodiesel offers strong outputs of 150kW at 3400rpm, with a considerable 500Nm available from 1600rpm through to 2800rpm.

Changes to make it even more robust.

The most significant change has been to the oil pan which has been redesigned and is now made from pressed steel compared with the cast aluminium used in other models.

The shape and construction of the oil strainer and oil level sensor have also been updated to optimise performance, while the oil filter is oriented more horizontally to reduce potential damage in off-road environments.

To ensure optimal engine cooling under heavy-duty use such as towing and low-range off-roading, a larger-diameter cooling fan has been fitted. The new fan increases the load on the V-ribbed belt, so engineers have adopted an isolation crank pulley to help control speed fluctuations and improve durability.

LC70 Series Automatic Transmission

This engine is offered exclusively with a six-speed torque-converter automatic transmission, offering simple and reliable operability in all conditions while being well suited for fleet applications where drivers may not be familiar or comfortable operating a manual transmission.

The AC60 transmission has also been tried and tested in other heavy-duty Toyota vehicles over a long period of time and has likewise been bolstered with enhancements to improve cooling performance.

The transmission oil capacity has been increased with the fitment of a deeper oil pan, allowing more stable distribution of oil pressure when driving on uneven slopes by optimising the oil strainer intake position and adding a transmission breather system oil catch tank.

Driving performance through bodies of water has been improved by adjusting the tip of the breather hose to 900mm above ground level, while a guard has been installed to protect the lower surface of the oil pan in harsh off-road conditions.

Along with the ease provided by two-pedal driving, the six-speed automatic transmission provides further benefit with a Power / Haul drive mode to optimise performance when towing or increased power is demanded.

A second start switch makes it easier to get out of sticky situations when off-roading, bypassing the first gear and starting in second, to provide powerful start-off acceleration in slippery or low traction conditions.

Manual gear shifting is also available via the shift lever.

The addition of a sixth gear with a gear ratio of 0.58 ensures relaxed engine operation at freeway speeds, helping to reduce engine noise and improve fuel consumption.

LC79 Series model walk

Workmate

Mechanical

• 150kW, 500Nm 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine / six-speed automatic transmission
• 151kW, 430Nm 4.5-litre V8 turbo-diesel engine / five-speed manual gearbox
• Dual-range 4WD system with auto-locking hubs
• Front rigid live axle, leading arm, coil springs and stabiliser bar
• Rear rigid live axle, semi-elliptic leaf springs
• Ventilated 322mm front and 312mm rear disc brakes.
• 130-litre fuel tank
• Hydraulic power steering

Exterior (new features in bold)

• LED lights and daytime running lights
• 16” steel wheels with 225/95R16 tyres
• Front and rear mud flaps
• Redesigned front face
• Black and chrome front and rear bumpers
• Aluminium side steps
• Chrome door handles
• Snorkel
• Up to seven colours depending on body style with solid, pearl, metallic, and mica paint finishes²

Interior

• Textured vinyl seats (Single Cab Chassis – 2, Double Cab Chassis – 5)
• Driver and front passenger seat slide adjustment
• Four-spoke urethane steering wheel
• Steering wheel controls for audio/phone/information/vehicle settings
• Tilt and telescopic steering column adjustment
• 4.2-inch multi-information display (MID)
• Vinyl floor covering with all-weather floor mats.
• Driver and passenger door bins with bottle holders
• Front console box (auto only)
• Driver and passenger map lights

Safety

• Toyota Safety Sense
  • Pre-collision system with day and night pedestrian and daytime cyclist detection
  • Lane departure alert with steering assist (brakes)
  • Road-sign assist (speed signs only)
  • Auto high beam
• ABS, vehicle stability and traction control
• Driver and front passenger airbags
• Downhill assist control (auto only)

Comfort and convenience

• Air conditioning
• Cruise control
• 1 x 12V accessory sockets,
• 1 x USB-A input
• Manual windows
• Intermittent windscreen wipers

Infotainment / Multimedia

• 6.7-inch touchscreen display
• 2-speaker audio system
• AM/FM/DAB+⁴ radio
• Bluetooth^®5 compatibility
• Wired Android Auto™⁶ / Apple CarPlay^®7 compatibility

GX (Single Cab Chassis only) – additional/changed features over Workmate.

Exterior

• 16-inch alloy wheels with 265/70R16 tyres
• Front wide mudguards
• Wheel arch flares

GXL – additional/changed features over Workmate.

Mechanical

• Front and rear differential locks

Exterior

• Chrome and painted front bumpers
• 16-inch alloy wheels with 265/70R16 tyres
• LED front foglights
• Front wide mudguards
• Wheel arch flares
• Aluminium side steps

Interior

• Cloth seat and door trim
• Rear bench seat (Dual Cab Only)
• Power windows
• Carpet flooring
• Front seat back pockets
• 4-speaker audio system

Comfort and convenience

• Keyless entry and central locking
• 2 x USB-C sockets

LandCruiser 70 Series pricing¹

Options:

Premium paint: $675

*Front and rear differential locks: $1500

Notes

1 Manufacturer’s list price provided for media purposes only. Statutory charges or other on-road costs not included.

All the LC70 Series technical details

All the legal note stuff

1 Weights/mass/volumes/dimensions are approximate and subject to individual vehicle variances, and should be confirmed before fitting any accessories, towing, or otherwise relying on this value.

2 Dimensions are approximate and are subject to individual vehicle variances, accessory fitment and weight carried.

3 Towing capacity subject to regulatory requirements, towbar and vehicle design and towing equipment limitations.

4 Toyota Motor Corporation supplied figure achieved in test conditions for comparison purposes only. Actual fuel consumption varies depending on driving conditions/style, vehicle condition, load and options/accessories fitted.

5 Carryover figure from previous ADR81/02 testing. Results achieved in test conditions for comparison purposes only. Actual fuel consumption varies depending on driving conditions/style, vehicle condition, load and options/accessories fitted.

6 Carryover figure from previous ADR81/02 testing. Results achieved in ADR81/02 combined drive cycle CO2testing. Results produced in laboratory test conditions, using sample vehicles without fitment of accessories/customisation, & do not reflect real world driving. Figures should only be used for comparative purposes.

Toyota LC79 Series details October 2023

Toyota LC79 Series – We heard from Sean Hanley a few weeks ago about when the 70 Series LandCruiser’s were coming and last week Toyota announced the arrival date and pricing.

After a long wait and closing off the order book, the updated model is finally arriving in November.

Pricing starts from $75,600 plus the usual costs for the 76 Series WorkMate wagon.

Again, the news is that these vehicles are now available with the 2.8L 4 Cylinder turbo diesel engine from the HiLux and Prado and an automatic transmission.

There have been modifications to this engine to allow for the heavy duty use it will receive in the 70 series vehicles.

Now a 4-cylinder engine in the 70 series may sound like sacrilege to many enthusiasts. But the figures show that it may not be as crazy as it sounds.

Both have 150kW of power around the 3,000rpm mark. However, the 4 cylinder trumps the older V8 for peak torque. It has 500Nm available from 1,600 rpm through to 2,800rpm. Contrast this to the V8 which has 430 Nm available but from a lower 1,200 rpm through to 3,200rpm. This wider torque band is what the V8 enthusiasts love.

I think that immediate availability and the prospect of an AT will sway many buyers to opt for the new engine rather than wait for the V8.

Time will tell

This is a Motoring Minute.

I’m Rob Fraser

TO LISTEN TO THE LC79 SERIES RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Toyota LandCruiser LC79 Series November 2023 Updates

Toyota Australia has announced pricing and specification for the upgraded LandCruiser 70 Series range, with the venerable workhorse arriving in Australian showrooms in November priced from $75,600 plus on-road costs¹ for the 76 Series WorkMate wagon.

• Upgraded LandCruiser 70 Series range arrives in local showrooms priced from $75,600 plus on-roads¹
• Four-cylinder 2.8-litre engine mated to automatic transmission available across the line-up
• New exterior styling and equipment upgrades complement upgrades to 70 Series range 

Along with enhancements to exterior styling, comfort and convenience features, and safety technology, the 70 Series introduces a six-speed automatic transmission for the first time, teamed to the tried-and-tested 1GD four-cylinder 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine which has also been upgraded to suit the hardcore usage required of a 70 Series engine.

Interview with Sean Hanley from Toyota

 We recently spoke to Sean Hanley from Toyota about the updates and availability.

This chat was in late September and as we are going to print the news has come out about the dates for availability, what is available and pricing.

Sean, as always, was passionate, positive, direct, and refreshingly authentic when we chat.

TO LISTEN TO THE LANDCRUISER 70 SERIES RADIO REVIEW, CLICK BELOW

To listen to the full raw unedited audio interview, click below.

LC79 Series more appealing with changes

Toyota Australia Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley said the changes to the new LandCruiser 70 Series would make it even more appealing to customers looking for a rugged 4×4 designed for both work and play.

“For generations the LandCruiser 70 Series has provided support for countless Australians in the toughest conditions the country has to offer, thanks to its rugged durability, strong towing and unparalleled off-road performance,” Mr Hanley said.

“Introducing the new automatic transmission, four-cylinder powertrain to the LandCruiser 70 Series range will broaden its appeal even further, making it more accessible to a wider cross-section of customers than ever before.

“Along with the upgrades to safety, convenience and styling, there has never been a better time to own a LandCruiser 70 Series.”

The heavily reworked LandCruiser 70 Series range enhances convenience and technology for all owners while also introducing new active safety features to the line-up, offering the new four-cylinder engine option will also help to make the 70 Series range more accessible by helping to satisfy overwhelming customer demand for the fan-favourite commercial vehicle range.

LC79 Series Four Cylinder engine option

The adoption of the four-cylinder engine comes with a number of mechanical upgrades for the 2.8-litre turbo-diesel powertrain to improve cooling and reliability in heavy-usage scenarios, starting by increasing the diameter of the cooling fan and adding an isolation crank pulley to reduce the load on the engine’s serpentine belt.

A newly designed oil pan, strainer and oil level sensor have been introduced to improve oil delivery in off-camber and hilly situations, while the orientation of the oil filter has been adjusted to suit the new vehicle.

Noise, vibration and harshness levels have also been reduced by introducing a balance shaft.

Like the 1GD engine, the accompanying six-speed automatic transmission has also been upgraded for use in the 70 Series, with a deeper oil pan, optimised oil strainer intake position and newly added oil catch tank.

The automatic transmission features a power/haul mode to best make use of the 70 Series’ full 3,500kg braked towing capacity², while a second start switch can help pull the vehicle out of sticky situations.

A transmission guard adds extra underbody protection for the oil pan, while the breather hose has been raised to a height of 900mm to assist water crossing performance.

Updated design touches

The new LandCruiser 70 Series is easily identifiable by its redesigned front end which introduces a range of heritage-inspired design touches including new circular LED headlamps with Automatic High Beam³, which can automatically detect other cars on the road and turn the high beams on and off to suit.

A new black mesh grille melds with the heritage-inspired bonnet and turn signals, while dark grey alloy wheels and overfenders provide a tough visage on 76 and 79 Series GX and GXL grades. 76 Series wagon variants are now available with the new Eclipse Black hue, joining the six existing colours.⁴

Updated features

Inside, the redesigned LandCruiser LC79 Series range adds a larger 6.7-inch touchscreen multimedia system with voice recognition⁵ and wired Apple CarPlay®⁶ and Android Auto™⁷ compatibility, a 4.2-inch digital instrument cluster display and a new-look speedometer and tachometer whose design harks back to LandCruisers of yesteryear.

New control buttons for multimedia, active safety features and voice recognition have been added on the steering wheel, and the fitment of the automatic transmission has seen the centre console redesigned with greater amenity including a centre storage box.

GXL grades gain two new USB-C ports which replace the existing 12V socket, while the 76 Series gains a reversing camera for easier parking ability around town.

Toyota Safety Suite LC79 Series

Toyota has expanded the LandCruiser 70 Series’ suite of Toyota Safety Sense active safety features to now include Downhill Assist Control³, Road Sign Assist³ and Lane Departure Alert³, joining the existing Pre-Collision System³ which is designed to provide autonomous emergency braking in a range of driving scenarios.

The new 1GD four-cylinder powertrain will be offered on all LandCruiser 70 Series grades, and is tuned to produce a strong 150kW from 3,000-3,400rpm with 500Nm of torque available across a wide 1,600-2,800rpm rev band.

Meanwhile, the venerable 1VD 4.5-litre turbodiesel V8 engine will continue to be sold alongside the 1GD on all variants bar the 76 Series WorkMate, producing 151kW at 3,400rpm and 430Nm of torque from a low 1,200rpm all the way through to 3,200rpm.

With solid front and rear axles, sturdy ladder-frame chassis, a payload of up to 1,380kg⁸ depending on variant, and a low-range transfer case with locking front and rear differentials on GX and GXL, the LandCruiser 70 Series remains the ultimate choice for hard everyday work or exploring Australia’s vast backyard.

LandCruiser 70 Series pricing¹

Options:

Premium paint: $675

*Front and rear differential locks: $1500

Notes

1 Manufacturer’s list price provided for media purposes only. Statutory charges or other on-road costs not included.

2 Towing capacity subject to regulatory requirements, and vehicle & equipment design limitations. Ask your dealer for more information, including Toyota Genuine Towbar capacity and availability.

3 Driver assist feature. Only operates under certain conditions. Check your Owner’s Manual for explanation of limitations. Please drive safely.

4 Toyota Australia reserves the right to vary or discontinue the current interior and exterior colours, trims and colour/trim/model combinations. Colours and trims displayed are a guide only and may vary from actual colours due to printing/display process. See your Toyota dealer to confirm availability when ordering your vehicle.

5 Compatibility & functionality varies depending on device.

6 CarPlay® is a trademark of Apple, Inc. registered in the U.S. and other countries.

7 Android Auto™ is a trademark of Google LLC.

8 Weights/mass/volumes/dimensions are approximate and subject to individual vehicle variances, and should be confirmed before fitting any accessories, towing or otherwise relying on this value.

LandCruiser 70 Series August 2023 details

Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series – The Toyota 70 Series LandCruiser’s are an icon of the Australian automotive landscape. Their popularity sometimes goes beyond logic as they are old school and expensive. Also, for the last 12 months or so it’s been impossible to order one.

Now Toyota have announced an upgraded version. Due here in the last quarter of 2023, the 70 series will now come with a choice of engines, refreshed styling, and more convenience features.

The big news is that alongside the familiar V8 diesel buyers can now choose an alternative 2.8L four-cylinder turbo diesel with a six speed auto transmission. This is the same combination found in the HiLux and Prado.

The 70 series vehicles will be offered in a choice of single cab Ute, Dual cab Ute, Troop Carrier, and Wagon.

In addition to the new engine choice there are a few convenience upgrades, including a larger 6.7 inch central touchscreen with wired smart phone connectivity.

Safety upgrades include lane keep assist and auto high beam headlights.

We will let you know pricing when it becomes available, but if history is a guide, they will be expensive.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

TO LISTEN TO THE LC70 Series RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Other 70 Series articles

• 79 Series LandCruiser Ute 70th Anniversary Review
• 2022 70 Series 4WD LandCruiser Ute upgraded with improvements
• LandCruiser Troop Carrier 2020 Radio Segment
• 2020 Toyota 4WD LandCruiser 70 Series get some model upgrades
• 2019 Toyota LandCruiser 79 Series Cab Chassis Review
• 2019 Toyota LC78 GXL Wagon Review
• 2018 Toyota LC70 GXL Wagon 4WD Review
• 2018 Toyota LC70 GXL Dual Cab Ute Review
• Toyota claims three gongs in OzRoamer awards
• 2018 Hino 300 Series 4X4 Truck Ute VS Toyota Landcruiser 70 Series GXL Ute
• Review of the 2017 Toyota Landcruiser LC70 GX Single Cab Chassis Ute
• 2016 Toyota Landcruiser LC 70 4.5L V8 Single Cab Ute Review
• 2012 Toyota LC 70 Dual Cab Ute Review
• Toyota launches 70 Series Dual Cab WOOHOO!
• 2010 Toyota Landcruiser 76 Series Workmate Review

More LandCruiser 70 Series details

• LandCruiser 70 series offered with four-cylinder turbodiesel/6-speed auto powertrain for the first time
• Refreshed styling inside and out, improved safety and more convenience features
• Upgraded LandCruiser 70 Series due to arrive in Q4, 2023

Toyota has taken the wraps off a significantly upgraded LandCruiser 70 Series. It will be offered with a four-cylinder turbodiesel engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission for the first time when it arrives in Australia in Q4 2023.

In addition to the new powertrain, the upgraded 70 Series brings refreshed styling, a significant increase in safety technology and comfort and convenience features, and an upgraded multimedia system.

LC 70 Series Models

The new powertrain will be available across the range that includes four body styles and three grades. It will join the V8 turbodiesel/five-speed manual variants offering customers more choice for this iconic 4WD model.

Toyota Australia President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley said the expanded range and substantial upgrades to the LandCruiser 70 Series demonstrated Toyota’s commitment to continuing to meet the needs of Australian 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,” Mr Hanley 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,” he said.

LandCruiser 70 Series Engines

The new 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine in the LandCruiser generates a maximum power of 150kW at 3400rpm. Peak torque of 500Nm between 1600rpm and 2800rpm, is 70Nm greater than the existing V8 diesel engine.

This engine will be mated exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission and will be offered in three Single Cab grades Workmate, GX and GXL. There are two grades, Workmate and GXL – for Double Cab, Troop Carrier and Wagon variants.

The proven 4.5-litre V8 turbodiesel generates a maximum power of 151kW at 3400rpm and peak torque of 430Nm from 1200rpm to 3200rpm.

This engine is paired with a five-speed manual gearbox and is offered in the same grades and body styles as the 2.8-litre powertrain. The exception is the Wagon that will only be available in GXL specification.

From a visual perspective, the significantly upgraded LandCruiser 70 Series maintains its rugged appearance. With a redesigned front end that references the design of the iconic LandCruiser 40 Series.

LandCruiser 70 Series interior upgrades

Likewise, the interior of the vehicle has undergone a styling refresh to enhance its appeal and accommodate a number of substantial feature upgrades.

The instrument cluster and centre console have been redesigned for improved ergonomics, visual ease and practicality. This includes the addition of a 4.2-inch multi information display (MID).

The multimedia system has also been upgraded and now features a 6.7-inch touchscreen on all grades. This is now compatible with wired Apple CarPlay¹ and Android Auto².

Toyota has also substantially improved the safety technology in the new LandCruiser 70 Series. With the addition of lane departure alert, road sign assist (speed signs only) and automatic high beam as part of the Toyota Safety Sense³ suite of advanced driver assistance features.

Further details and Australian specifications will be released closer to the launch of the upgraded Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series.⁴

Notes

1 CarPlay^® is a trademark of Apple, Inc. registered in the U.S. and other countries.
2 Android AutoTM is a trademark of Google LLC.
3 Driver assist feature. Only operates under certain conditions. Check your Owner’s Manual for explanation of limitations. Please drive safely.
4 Vehicle specifications and features are based on [overseas] pre-production model and is subject to final confirmation by Toyota Australia and may differ from those shown.

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network.

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. They are also syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

Additionally Motoring Minute is also broadcast as part of Overdrive Radio Program. This can be found weekly on the Community Radio Network across Australia.