Toyota in Japan may be about to give us our clearest look yet at what will power the 70 Series LandCruiser in years to come, with reports out of the auto giant’s homeland suggesting V8 power is headed for the scrapheap.
Instead, the 70 Series – which was removed from sale in Japan following the launch of the LandCruiser 300 Series – is tipped to return to its home market with Prado power under its bonnet.
Yep, the iconic off-roader will return with the 2.8-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine currently at work in the LandCruiser Prado in its kit bag, rather than the 4.5-litre, eight-cylinder diesel so popular in Australia.
For the record, that diesel V8 generates 151kW and 430Nm, compared to the Prado’s 150kW and 500Nm, so despite the shrinking engine, power outputs will only be improved.
The reports, which surfaced in Japan’s Best Car Web, also suggest the new-look 70 Series will be a an automatic-only affair, likely adopting the six-speed automatic from the Prado.
But while the engine and gearbox are all Prado, the four-wheel drive mechanicals will reportedly remain as they are currently in the 70 Series, ensuring no loss in capability, thought towing capacity could take a hit, with the Prado serving up 3000kgs against the 70 Series’ 3500kgs (braked).
In Australia, something of a cloud remains over the 70 Series, with new orders paused for what is expected be at least another six months as Toyota catches up on demand.
The brand has moved to assure those already in the queue that they will receive a 70 Series, but a question mark remains over the long-term viability of the diesel V8, and whether a Prado-powered off-roader could make its way to Australia, too.
“We are always reviewing the supply and demand status of the LandCruiser 70,” says Toyota’s sales and marketing boss, Sean Hanley.
“We paused order taking for that car as a customer-focused measure last year due to supply and demand factors, because we had exceptional demand on that car, and very extended wait times. So I don’t foresee in the next six months that will alter.”
The big question, then, is what will come next for the 70 Series? Late last year, the LandCruiser 70 Series underwent a $1600 price hike and received more safety equipment and a higher gross vehicle mass (GVM) as part of a 2023 model refresh for the 4WD.
The 2023 LandCruiser 70 Series is available in Workmate, GX and GXL grades spread across Troop Carrier, wagon, and single- and dual-cab body styles.
Asked whether everyone currently holding a 70 Series order in Australia could be guaranteed a vehicle, Mr Hanley responded: “Yes, yes, yes – the reason we paused (new orders) is so we could secure those orders for those customers.”
Keyword: Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series to live on! But it's bad news if you like V8 diesel engines - reports