2024 Land Cruiser 70 Series receives retro-styling and a new heart

At the grand unveiling of the Land Cruiser Prado J250, Toyota had another surprise up its sleeve in the way of another update for one of its SUVs. After the covers were taken off the new Prado, Toyota presented the 2024 update for the legendary Land Cruiser 70 Series. The updates consist of a retro-inspired exterior, an array of advanced technology and safety features, and an all-new four-cylinder turbodiesel option to complement the trusted V8 powertrain

The 70 Series Land Cruiser served as the replacement for the tough and rugged J40 or the 40 Series. Unlike the 60 Series which went on to become the luxurious and comfort-oriented Land Cruiser we know today, the 70 Series is still built to be a rugged and tough off-road vehicle. Toyota kept the 70 Series alive by introducing updates throughout its nearly 40-year life. This time, the updates pay tribute to the 70 Series' history and will also mark the return of the 70 Series to its hometown of Japan.

Starting at the front, the 70 Series receives updated round LED headlights seamlessly integrated into the honeycomb grille. The nostalgic design of the original model is echoed by the addition of protruding turn signals. The new bumper displays cleaner lines while maintaining the signature unpainted plastic appearance, which matches the fender extensions. Looking from the sides, the profile of the vehicle showcases front fenders that harken back to the classic 1984 70 Series At the rear, Toyota cleverly conceals the original taillights with body-colored panels, opting for bumper-mounted lights instead.

Retro looks don’t mean a retro driving experience in the 2024 70 Series. The interior of the Land Cruiser 70 Series has also been given a few updates. Inside, the 70 Series sports a brand-new 4.2-inch multi-information display as well as a new 6.7-inch touchscreen multimedia head unit with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Safety has also been upgraded with the inclusion of the Toyota Safety Sense suite, which includes a lane departure alert, auto high beams, speed limit recognition, and more.

Just like its predecessors, the refreshed 70 Series will offer a variety of body styles, including Single Cab, Double Cab, Troop Carrier, and Wagon options. The SUV variant, also known as the Wagon measures 4,890 mm in length, 1,870 mm in width, and 1,920 mm in height, with a wheelbase measuring 2,730 mm. 

Another major change hides in the engine bay with the new option of a 2.8-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine. Those familiar with this engine will recognize that it is taken from the Fortuner SUV and the Hilux pickup truck. The 1GD-FTV in the 70 Series generates 201 hp and 500 Nm of torque. This engine is exclusively paired with a six-speed Super ECT automatic gearbox which transfers power to all four wheels.

For those who prefer a V8, Toyota will still offer a V8 option with all body styles of the 70 Series. The 4.5-liter V8 turbodiesel delivers 202 hp and 430 Nm of torque paired exclusively with a five-speed manual gearbox. 

The 70 Series will make its homecoming in Japan after it makes a stop in Australia in the fourth quarter of 2023. Here in the Philippines, the 70 Series is not officially sold in the country and there is no indication that Toyota Motor Philippines will start any time soon. If the wind shifts in the future, however, we’ll let you know.