Toyota Kills the V8 for the LandCruiser 70 Series, Adds Manual for 4-Cylinder

Toyota has announced the end of the V8 engine for the LandCruiser 70 Series, a powertrain in use since 2007. A new five-speed manual gearbox for most four-cylinder variants will be introduced.

Orders for the 1VD-FTV 4.5-litre turbo-diesel engine will remain closed. Toyota aims to deliver as many V8-powered vehicles as possible until the final production in September.

The production of V8 models such as the Wagon, Troop Carrier, and WorkMate and GX pick-ups will cease in September. Deliveries are expected late this year or early next year.

V8 production will continue into 2025 for the 79 Series GXL single and double cabs. This will enable dealers to meet customer demand until the final quarter of 2025.

The new five-speed gearbox, designed for higher torque, will be available from October for all body styles and grades, excluding single cabs and Workmate Wagon. It is intended to enhance vehicle performance.

It features unique gear ratios tailored for the 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine. A triple synchronization mechanism has been added to the first gear for smoother gear changes, while the first, second, and third gears are shorter to improve off-the-line performance.

The fifth gear is longer to enhance fuel economy and reduce engine noise at highway speeds. Additionally, a new flywheel compatible with a 12-inch clutch ensures better power delivery. A dust seal on the rear end plate has been incorporated to prevent foreign matter from entering the release bearing. The gearbox is derived from the V8 manual transmission but includes additional components to handle the high torque and tough customer usage.

Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia Vice President Sales, Marketing & Franchise Operations, stated that the discontinuation of the V8 was due to changing regulations and community expectations. Hanley confirmed efforts to fulfill existing V8 orders.

Hanley mentioned that customers might find the four-cylinder alternative equally capable. Ordering for these variants continues unaffected by the V8 decision.

Toyota has invested resources to maintain the 70 Series in its lineup, ensuring its durability and performance. The new manual gearbox is expected to support the vehicle's off-road and heavy-duty capabilities.

The 70 Series has seen significant sales in Australia since 1985, with 346,742 units sold. Nearly half of these were V8-powered models since their introduction in 2007.

The new gearbox, derived from the V8 manual, is tailored for the 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine. It delivers 150kW of power and 450Nm of torque, aiming to improve performance and fuel efficiency.

The gearbox features unique gear ratios, additional components for high torque, and a triple synchronization mechanism for smoother changes. A longer fifth gear is designed to enhance fuel economy and reduce engine noise.

A new flywheel compatible with a 12-inch clutch has been introduced to ensure power delivery. Durability measures include a dust seal on the rear end plate to prevent foreign matter entry.

Further information, including pricing and fuel economy, will be released closer to the introduction date.