The Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series: A Last Hurrah for the Legendary V-8 Engine
Introduction:
When Toyota launched the Land Cruiser (300 Series) in 2021, it didn’t give it a V-8 or a US visa for that matter. Then the 250 Series came along in 2023, and while it’s available in North America, there’s no engine with eight cylinders. A third flavor of the Land Cruiser is available in some markets. It used to have a big ol’ V-8, but not anymore. Launched 40 years ago, the 70 Series is still sold in Australia. The bad news is that its venerable 4.5-liter turbodiesel V-8 is no more. Production will continue for a while to clear the backlog of orders but the company won’t accept new requests for vehicles equipped with the 1VD-FTV engine.
Subtitles:
1. The Demise of the V-8 Engine in the Land Cruiser 70 Series
Toyota’s division in Australia has announced that the 70 Series Land Cruiser, which has been around for 40 years, will no longer be offered with the 4.5-liter turbodiesel V-8 engine due to changing regulations and community expectations. Production of models equipped with this engine will cease, with final deliveries scheduled for the end of the year.
2. Changes in the Lineup and Production Timeline
The four-door Wagon and two-door Troop Carrier models will be the first to go, with production ending in September 2024. This will be followed by the single- and double-cab pickup trucks in the GX trim level. The final units of these models will be delivered to customers before the end of the year. The pickups in GXL trim will continue production until Q4 2025.
3. Transition to a New Engine Option
While the V-8 engine is being discontinued, Toyota will now offer a five-speed manual gearbox with the 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine. This engine delivers 201 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. The manual transmission will feature different gear ratios to improve acceleration and fuel efficiency, with a longer fifth gear for quieter cruising at high speeds.
4. The Global Reach of the Land Cruiser 70 Series
Although production of the 70 Series Land Cruiser is ending in Australia, it is still being sold in other markets such as Japan and the United Arab Emirates. The vehicle has been updated over the years to include modern features like a touchscreen infotainment system, automatic high beams, speed sign assist, lane departure warning, and Downhill Assist Control.
5. The Enduring Appeal of the Land Cruiser 70 Series
Despite its age, the Land Cruiser 70 Series continues to be in high demand. Orders for the vehicle in Australia are backlogged for 3-6 months due to its simplicity and reliability. Customers appreciate its rugged design and off-road capabilities in a market saturated with tech-heavy vehicles. The legacy of the V-8 engine and the iconic Land Cruiser name make this model a popular choice for enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
In conclusion, the Land Cruiser 70 Series marks the end of an era with the discontinuation of the V-8 engine. While it may no longer have the same powerhouse under the hood, the enduring appeal of this legendary off-roader lives on in its simplicity, reliability, and rugged design. As Toyota moves towards a more modern lineup, the 70 Series remains a symbol of the brand’s heritage and commitment to producing vehicles that can withstand the test of time.