Toyota Release Facelifted Short-Wheel Base LandCruiser 70 Series

Toyota enthusiasts in Australia will have to look afar to get a glimpse of the latest iteration of the iconic LandCruiser series. The 2024 Toyota LandCruiser 71 Series, a compact and robust variant of the beloved 70 Series, has been launched exclusively in the United Arab Emirates, leaving Australian buyers yearning.

The 71 Series is a fresh take on the traditional LandCruiser, boasting a shorter wheelbase of 2310mm, which is 420mm less than its five-door counterpart. This new model exudes ruggedness with its black over-fender flares and is adorned with 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps, and fog lamps. It's available in four tasteful colours: metallic grey, beige, metallic silver, and white.

What sets this model apart is its revamped interior, featuring a 9.0-inch LCD display, significantly larger than the 6.7-inch unit in Australian-market 70-Series variants. This modern touch is complemented by wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, adding a layer of convenience and connectivity.

The cabin is wrapped in elegant tan (Chamois) nubuck and synthetic leather upholstery, accommodating five seats. Safety is also a priority in the 71 Series, equipped with a pre-collision detection system, lane departure alert, and adaptive high-beam headlamps, ensuring peace of mind on every journey.

Under the hood, the LandCruiser 71 Series is powered by a 170kW/360Nm 4.0-litre petrol V6 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This robust engine, unfortunately, is not available in any Australian-specification 70-Series models.

The UAE pricing for this compact powerhouse starts from AED169,900 (approximately AU$70,000), aligning closely with the Australian pricing for the larger 76-Series five-door GXL wagon, which is pegged at $79,800.

Despite its unique appeal, the Toyota LandCruiser 71 Series remains out of reach for Australian buyers. The local market will continue to see the 76-Series wagon, 79-Series ute, and 78-Series troop carrier. The absence of the 71-Series 'shorty' in Australia is a missed opportunity for fans seeking a more compact and agile version of this legendary vehicle.

Let us know your thoughts on this exclusive UAE launch. Would you like to see the Toyota LandCruiser 71 Series make its way to Australian shores? Share your views in the comments below.