Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series to get 2.8 diesel powertrain

The Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series (LC70), which has been in production for almost 40 years, is getting a new engine in the form of Toyota’s four-cylinder turbodiesel. This new engine, which displaces 2.8 liters, will be in addition to the existing 4.5-liter V8 turbodiesel. The last time the 70 Series Land Cruiser had a four-cylinder variant was in 1991 with a pair of 2.4-liter gasoline and diesel engines.

Despite its age, the LC70 remains a popular vehicle worldwide, available in both SUV and pickup truck versions due to its classic design and rugged durability. In Australia, demand for the vehicle was so high during the 2022 model year that orders had to be paused, and they are not expected to reopen until the end of this year.

The new four-cylinder turbodiesel engine is borrowed from the Toyota Hilux and Fortuner and is expected to produce similar power output numbers of 201 hp and 500 Nm of torque. This power output is similar to the existing V8 turbodiesel, which produces 202 hp and 430 Nm of torque. However, the new engine is expected to offer better fuel economy and lower emissions. Some may argue it could lose reliability, but the 2.8-liter has proven itself in recent years.

In addition to the new engine, the updated LC70 is also expected to receive an automatic transmission for the first time since 1990 to improve convenience and driveability. Other upgrades include a new infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and minor interior cosmetic changes.

Toyota is also planning to produce a mild-hybrid powertrain for the Hilux and Prado models, but there is no word yet on whether it will be offered for the Land Cruiser. For now, the V8 diesel engine will continue to be available in the LC70.

Despite the fact that the LC70 has been in production for almost 40 years, Toyota continues to improve and update the vehicle. In fact, the LC70 received several updates and improvements as recently as 2022. Toyota has hinted that a "big change" is coming as the LC70 approaches its 40th anniversary but has not announced any definite plans for future models. We reckon a hybrid powertrain, perhaps, but regardless this generation of Land Cruiser will and always will be a legend.