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By
EWAN KENNEDY
31 August 2009
Toyota’ LandCruiser 70 Series are serious 4WD workhorses, not
pretty SUV toys. Though they still look a lot like they did at
their introduction almost 25 years ago, they have received
numerous upgrades over the years. These changes have almost
invariably been of a practical nature, though there have been some
styling modifications as well.
On the safety front, Toyota has introduced driver and front
passenger airbags as standard equipment on all 70 Series models.
This has necessitated the use of an extended front bumper to
accommodate airbag requirements. Inside, warning lamps for the
airbags and a driver's seatbelt reminder have been installed.
Telescopic steering column adjustment is part of the latest
package, and a new four-spoke urethane steering wheel is now used.
The big Toyota's audio system has been completely revised. The 70
Series now has a double-DIN head unit with AM/FM tuner, single CD
with MP3 capability. A USB input allows full iPod control, and
there's a 3.5mm audio input jack. The system also offers Bluetooth
hands-free telephone capability, as well as Bluetooth audio
streaming with compatible products.
The dashboard has been facelifted to freshen its appearance,
there's a revised instrument cluster and a bottle holder is
installed next to the gear lever.
Exterior colour choices are French Vanilla, Sandy Taupe and
Midnight Blue on all models plus Silver Pearl, Graphite, Merlot
Red and Vintage Gold on the Cab Chassis and wagon. Interior
upgrades also include new fabric Bluish Gray or Oak trim for GXL
models.
LandCruiser 76 five-seat wagon variants now have a moulded roof
lining for added head clearance, as well as resin garnish on the
front pillar and header. The front-passenger assist grip has been
moved to the A pillar. There's a new sun visor design.
All LandCruiser 70 Series models are powered by a turbocharged and
intercooled high-pressure injection V8 diesel engine. It delivers
151 kW of power at 3400 rpm. Peak torque of 430 Nm starts at only
1200 rpm and remains all the way to 3200 rpm. It meets Euro IV
emission standards.
Transmission is by a five-speed manual and – naturally in a
working vehicle like this – a two-speed-plus-neutral transfer
box.
Toyota LandCruisers, particularly the 70 Series have become very
much part of a way of life in the Australian outback. They can be
seen by the dozen every day you spend in the bush and have built
up an impressive reputation for toughness, long life and
reliability.
The LandCruiser 70 Series range consists of a cab-chassis,
Troopcarrier and station wagon models. Prices of the latest models
with their increased safety and audio features have increased by
just one per cent. The range starts from $57,640 for the
cab-chassis, $58,540 for the wagon and $64,540 for the
Troopcarrier. Government and Toyota dealer charges have to be
added to these manufacturer’s list prices. Full driveaway
pricing can be obtained from your local Toyota dealer.
© Copyright
Marque Publishing Company
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