New Toyota 70 Series

The three variant range feature new structural and styling changes, wider track, improved suspension and better steering feel. All also have a new grille, headlamps, front fenders and front bumpers. All models - cab chassis (LC79), wagon (LC76) and troop carrier (LC78) - are powered exclusively by the new 4.5-litre V8 turbo-diesel engine featuring common-rail direct injection and an intercooler. The V8 delivers 151kW of power at 3400 rpm and replaces six cylinder diesel and turbo-diesel engines. Peak torque of 430Nm is reached at just 1200 rpm and held all the way to 3200 rpm - the flattest torque curve among all Toyota's engines. The new V8 engine has 23.7 percent more power and 13 percent more torque than the previous six-cylinder turbo-diesel engine.

It is mated to a five-speed manual transmission with two-speed transfer case and a part-time 4WD system with manual free wheeling hubs. All LandCruiser 70 Series models are available in Workmate and GXL grades. The cab-chassis line-up also offers a mid-range GX grade. The new model to the range is the four-door Wagon, aimed at buyers who want a vehicle for both work and recreational driving. The troop carrier offers three-seat or 11-seat Workmate grades or a five-seat GXL. Pricing for the Cab Chassis Workmate start at $53,490, $55,890 for the GX and $56,490 for the GXL. The 3-seat Troop Carrier Workmate is $58,890, the 11-seat $59,990 and the GXL is $61,490. The Workmate Wagon is $53,990, the GXL $57,490. Options include air conditioning at $2,640 and differential locks at $2,735.
Full report next month.