The 70-Series Toyota Land Cruiser is set to celebrate its 40th anniversary in 1985, remaining popular in various global markets. Despite its age, Toyota continues to invest in the model, introducing a new five-speed manual transmission while phasing out its V8 engine. The decision to discontinue the 4.5-liter turbodiesel V8 was based on changing regulations, leading to the introduction of a 2.8-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder option borrowed from the Hilux pickup.
Since its launch in 1985, Toyota has sold 346,742 units of the 70-Series in Australia, making it a long-standing favorite among consumers. The V8 engine has been a key feature in many of these sales, with 171,010 units equipped with this powerful engine. Despite its age, the 70-Series continues to be highly sought-after for its ruggedness and off-road capabilities, particularly in markets like Australia.
Toyota will be phasing out the V8 engine from the 70-Series in favor of the 2.8-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder option. This decision was made in response to changing regulations and will see the final V8-powered models produced in September 2024. The V8 engine has been a staple in the 70-Series lineup, offering strong performance and torque, but the new turbo-four promises improved fuel economy and performance.
Along with the introduction of the new 2.8-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine, Toyota will also be updating the transmission on the 70-Series. The five-speed manual transmission will receive specific gear ratios tailored to the turbo-four engine, providing improved off-the-line performance and better fuel efficiency. The new transmission is expected to enhance the driving experience of the iconic SUV.
As Toyota continues to evolve the 70-Series Land Cruiser, pricing and performance specifications for the new models will be announced later in 2024. Despite its age, the 70-Series has remained a popular choice for consumers looking for a rugged and capable off-road vehicle. While the model is highly sought-after in markets like Australia, it is unclear if the new turbo-four model will be available in other regions.
Overall, the 70-Series Toyota Land Cruiser continues to make waves in the market despite its age, with Toyota’s decision to phase out the V8 engine in favor of a more efficient turbo-four reflecting the brand’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. With its legendary off-road capabilities and enduring popularity, the 70-Series remains a favorite among consumers worldwide.