Announced globally yesterday, the next generation Land Cruiser 70 (LC70) represents a modern take on the Land Cruiser’s origins as a dependable, go-anywhere vehicle, beloved by kiwis for its rugged styling and simplicity, says Toyota.
Neeraj Lala, Toyota New Zealand’s CEO, says the upgraded Land Cruiser 70 services a multitude of sectors as a hard-working utility vehicle and it will delight both those sectors, as well as the vehicle’s many enthusiasts.
“The Land Cruiser 70 has a loyal following in New Zealand, and the new vehicle represents a “back to the roots” concept in terms of design. It truly can go anywhere – it’s just as at home up in the craggy backcountry of the South Island as it is cruising along Ninety Mile Beach in the Far North or helping wrangle livestock on the farm. It’s the ultimate representation of the outdoor kiwi working vehicle, of making the inaccessible parts of New Zealand accessible,” says Neeraj.
“The LC70 services key New Zealand sectors, ranging from primary industries to construction and everything in between, industries which keep New Zealand’s economy moving through an annual economy contribution of approximately $36,305 million. There are currently no electrified options for these customers, so until there are, Toyota will continue to provide an exceptional quality product to meet their needs,” says Neeraj.
The LC70 fits into the mobility company’s strategy of offering the widest range of vehicles that meet the needs of Kiwi motorists, from electrified hybrid cars and SUVs to safe and highly functional utility vehicles and vans, while at the same time committing to reduce tailpipe carbon emissions by 46% by 2030.
Neeraj Lala says that Toyota will not leave customers behind as Toyota progresses down its electrification pathway, including customers working in vital industries throughout the country.
“The LC70 has been a tireless workhorse for many years and has always remained an important vehicle within Toyota’s line-up, made even better by the introduction of an updated 1GD engine that will see a reduction in emissions without compromising performance,” he says.
According to Toyota, functional circular headlamps and a hood-cooling vent form a distinctive nod to the Land Cruiser 40 Series of yesteryear, while maintaining a modern character, reinforcing the utilitarian tradition of the LC70.
The new Land Cruiser 70 even adopts the distinctive Toyota logo used in the Land Cruiser heritage models. The vehicle will feature an updated 1GD engine, the same engine that features in the Toyota Hilux, to provide greater fuel efficiency without compromising performance, power, or outputs. The new powertrain will have no impact to the 3500kg towing capacity.
The Land Cruiser 70 will be available in New Zealand in late 2023 in two grades, the LT and the LX. More information will be released closer to the local launch.
