Whenever you travel around the great Aussie bush every second vehicle seems to be a Toyota 70 Series Land Cruiser.
Some in much loved condition, others that have led a rough life – but all are still going strong and hard, even with too little maintenance.
One reason for its popularity is that it has been developed specifically for the Australian environment, with a tough ladder-frame chassis, live-axles, impressive ground clearance, part-time 4×4, powerful yet efficient engine, excellent load-carrying capacity and long touring range.
Until now all 70 Series variants have been powered – and we mean powered – by a 4.5-litre V8 turbo diesel engine mated to a five-speed manual gearbox.
That’s set to change with the arrival of the upcoming MY2024 70 Series which adds a second engine option – a 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel with a six-speed automatic transmission.
In addition to the new powertrain the heavily upgraded 70 Series range will come with some styling modifications, upgraded technology and safety features.
As before, body styles are Work Mate 76-Series wagon, five-door Wagon, three-door Troop Carrier, and single and double-cab chassis.
All models are available with both powertrain options except for the Workmate 76 Series Wagon, which is only available with the 2.8-litre four-cylinder engine.
The new 2.8-litre four-cylinder powertrain has been proven over the years in a range of Toyota 4×4 models including Prado and Hilux.
It produces 150kW at 3400 rpm and 500Nm from 1600 to 2800 rpm.
There are three equipment levels: Workmate, GX and GXL.
Appearance-wise very little has changed, and that will suit rusted-on 70 Series owners quite nicely thank you.
The previous halogen headlights have been replaced by circular LED lights.
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.
A wide bumper and black fender flares give the 70 Series a muscular stance and sense of stability, paired on GX and GXL grades with dark grey metallic 16-inch alloys.
As before, the Land Cruiser 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.
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.
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.
New safety features in all models include lane departure alert, road sign assist and automatic high beam.
The four-cylinder versions also get downhill assist control while the wagon variants gain a new reversing camera with static guidelines.
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 upgraded Land Cruiser 70 Series is covered by a five-year/unlimited kilometre Toyota Warranty Advantage.
This is extended to seven years on the engine and driveline.
Capped-price servicing for the first five years/100,000km (whichever comes first) and each 6-month/10,000km service is priced at $525.
Prices start from $75,600 for the 2.8-litre Workmate Wagon.
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