Finding the right vehicle to help you traverse the Australian Outback's rough terrain isn't always easy. However, it's no secret that the Toyota LandCruiser has been the vehicle of choice for many Australians for years.
The Toyota Australia LandCruiser 79 Series is still unsurpassed off-road.
It is designed specifically for demanding bar work. The real distinguishing feature of the Toyota Australia LandCruiser is that it can do so repeatedly for several years. These vehicles have a very small pool of heavy-duty competition and are true workhorses right out of the showroom.
If you're wondering whether this vehicle is what you've been looking for, keep reading! We'll discuss its performance, interior features, towing capacity, and more to give you a better idea of what to expect from this vehicle.
Overview
The LandCruiser is a unique vehicle that lives on the periphery of the automotive (and geographic) environment in the dustiest and roughest places. In the series are a number of different models, including the 70th-anniversary edition, the Workmate, GX, and GXL models.
Moreover. the five-speed manual transmission and 4.5L turbo-diesel V8 engine are standard features of this series. Due to its low-down torque, it is perfect for towing trailers, transporting heavy loads, and travelling off-road, which is why these models are often used as commercial vehicles.
What's more, depending on the model, the LandCruiser 79 Series is available with a manual or automatic transmission.
Most single cab 79 Series LandCruisers will come with genuine Toyota trays as standard features. With so many incredible features, it's hard not to want one of these incredible workhorses. In the section below, we'll provide an overview of the standard features of each model.
LandCruiser 70 Edition
Here's an overview of some of the standard features you can expect from a Toyota LandCruiser 70th Anniversary edition:
- LED daytime running lights and fog lights
- A special 70th-anniversary badge
- Dual cup holders
- Black heritage grille
- Grey vinyl upholstery
- A silver and woodgrain accented trim
- Four 2.1-amp USB outlets
- Black flares, front bumper, headlight bezels, and wheels
The Workmate
Below, we'll list some of the features that come standard with the Workmate models.
- 16-inch steel front and rear wheels
- Engine immobiliser
- Traction control
- Cruise control
- ABS brakes
- MP3 compatibility
- Bluetooth connectivity
- two USB outlets
- Textured vinyl seating
- Telescopic and tilt steering wheel
- Exterior mirrors
- A one-inch touchscreen display
GX Models
The GX models have all the features of the Workmate, with a few additions or replacements:
- Over-fender flares
- Optional differential locks
- Wide front mudguards
- 16-inch alloy wheels
GXL Models
How do the GXL models differ? Here are some of the key features of the vehicles in this range:
- Front and rear diff locks
- Power windows
- Engine immobiliser
- Cruise control
- Cloth seats
- Electric aerial
- Audio streaming capabilities
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Remote locking
- 16-inch alloy wheels
- Manual air conditioning
- CD player
- Variable, intermittent wipers
- Satellite navigation
Performance & Drive
A 4.5L V8 Turbo-Diesel engine powers every 79 Series LandCruiser. This offers a ton of low-down torque, which leads to improved performance when travelling off-road, hauling heavy objects, or towing. It produces a power output of 151 kW at 3400 rpm and 430 Nm at 1200 rpm in terms of torque.
Five-speed Manual Transmission
Moreover, a five-speed manual gearbox is standard on all Toyota LandCruiser 79 Series variants, allowing you to switch between second and fifth gears easily. Due to the engine's high rpm at highway cruising speeds, this has previously been a problem.
Toyota may have chosen to go with five gears because doing so decreases the amount of gear changes the clutch and gearbox must endure over the course of the vehicle's lifetime, reducing the wear and tear.
Ball and Nut Steering Wheel
In contrast to more contemporary designs, the steering wheel on the 79 Series revolves around a ball and nut. The feel is not drastically altered by this, though. On the open road, it still has a pleasant, predictable feel.
Moreover, the body roll is more noticeable when cornering than in most mid-range four-wheel drive vehicles. This is due to the LandCruiser's higher dimensions and narrower wheel track. Driving is not made any more difficult, though.
Suspension
The suspension is firm, as you would expect from a heavy-duty off-road vehicle. When bearing a load, the rigidity is decreased, which softens the effect of bumps.
There is noticeable engine vibration, but this is to be expected from a tough and capable workhorse.
Interior
What do these vehicles look like on the inside? The 79 Series LandCruiser's interior is uncomplicated and unaffected by the competition for appearance and technology.
Bluetooth and MP3 connectivity, air vents, a power antenna, a USB port, an auxiliary input, and a clock are all included in the dash.
Moreover, the Landcruiser's height, in combination with its nearly vertical windscreen, creates a very good vision out across the hood, despite the basic seating that leaves much to be desired when it comes to adjustability.
The GXL model includes a few extra features, such as remote keyless entry, electric windows, central locking, and carpeted flooring. Moreover, the two-piece back bench seats in the dual cab series offer enough space for passengers.
Keep in mind that air conditioning is not a standard feature, but you can talk to your dealer about adding it as an additional feature. This, coupled with the 1984-style ventilation controls and retro-style radio buttons, gives the impression that you are riding in a brand-new vehicle designed exclusively for hard work.
Exterior Features
Now that you know what the interior is like let's take a look at the LandCruiser 79 Series' external features.
The 79 Series LandCruiser has fantastic exterior features and has kept that vintage appearance. It is a look often tied to the Outback and lends to its ongoing prominence as a classic vehicle.
Additionally, the straightforward Workmate versions appear straightforward and work-focused. They just have a radiator grille and front bumper in black. Steel side steps and back mudflaps are included as standard features in many newer models.
With a chrome grille and wheel arch flares, the GXL models are a bit more intimidating. They also have front mudflaps and side platforms made from aluminium.
Towing and Payload Capacity
Because the LandCruiser is renowned as a working vehicle, it is essential to look at the payload capacity (the maximum weight the vehicle can carry) and the towing capacity (the total weight you can tow with the LandCruiser).
Every 79 Series LandCruiser has a 3,500 kg towing capability, which is a significant feature for anyone looking to pull a heavy load. However, we advise exercising caution when towing particularly heavy loads, as this limit is somewhat ambiguous, and there are limited warranty options, much like other vehicles with a similar towing capacity.
After fitting on a Trayon, a single cab 79 Series LandCruiser will still have over 800 kgs in terms of payload for other items. Keep in mind that you will receive significantly less with the dual-cab.
Technology
The LandCruiser 79 Series vehicles come with a number of standard driving assist technologies that add to its dependability and overall safety, including:
- Stability control
- ABS braking
- Traction control
- Hill-start assist control
These features make the LandCruiser better to drive and improve the overall feel of the vehicle, in addition to providing a safer, more reliable ride.
Moreover, the vehicles in this series also have Bluetooth connectivity, CD players, smartphone connectivity, USB ports, and an auxiliary input. This allows motorists to enjoy their favourite songs while travelling to their destinations.
Plus, with a touchscreen infotainment system, premium black upholstery in some models, passenger airbags, and more, there's little reason not to love the technology in these incredible vehicles.
Safety
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a vehicle is its safety rating. The 2016 ANCAP safety assessment gave the 79 Series single-cab a five-star safety rating. Keep in mind that it is the only that model of the LandCruiser 70 carries that rating.
This assessment was based on the results of the following evaluations:
- A Frontal offset collision rating (14.75/16)
- A side impact rating of 16
- Good and Marginal ratings for pedestrian protection and whiplash
Safety Features Include Active Traction Control and More
Here are some of the standard features that promote the safety of these vehicles:
- Six airbags
- ABS braking
- Vehicle stability control
- Active traction control
- Brake assist
- Electronic brake force distribution
- Hill-start assist control
- Seatbelt reminders
Fuel Efficiency
Another important factor to consider when choosing a new vehicle is its fuel consumption. After all, you don't want to buy a vehicle that burns a hole through your pocket.
The truth is that one of the shortcomings of a 79 Series LandCruiser is its fuel efficiency, but that shouldn't come as a big surprise with a V8 turbo-diesel engine!
However, it is important to note that the 2017 upgrade made significant improvements to fuel consumption. What changed? The gearbox modification increased the fifth gear by over 15 per cent. This means that the LandCruiser will motor along at 100 km/h while revving at about 2000 rpm.
The new gearbox reduces overall fuel consumption by about 10 per cent when paired with a turbo-diesel particulate filter and piezo injectors (which were necessary to meet modern emission regulations).
According to Toyota, the average fuel consumption of a turbo-diesel vehicle on highways and in cities is 10.7 L/100 km.
Available Accessories
Although these LandCruisers come with several standard features, you may need to add on a few extras if you require more functionality. Here are some of the accessories you can choose from to add more to the off-road experience you get with a Toyota LandCruiser 79 Series vehicle:
- A gross vehicle mass upgrade
- Side steps
- Brush bars
- Snorkel
- Front and rear differential locks
- Upper body and front-end protection
- A dual battery
- Brush bars
- Extra recovery points
- A chassis extension
- Android Auto and GPS navigation
Which Model Should You Buy?
The truth is that there are several models for you to choose from. If you're looking for a more contemporary-looking vehicle, we recommend going with a Workmate. You should also look at the standard features of each model before making your choice.
Many newer models have a number of excellent standard features that the older models lack, including air conditioning.
You will also need to consider your budget and how much you're willing to spend before making your choice.
Single Cab Chassis or Dual Cab?
One of the most common questions among LandCruiser buyers is whether they should choose a dual or single cab chassis. The truth is that this all comes down to personal preference.
First, you'll need to ask yourself why you need a LandCruiser. Do you intend to use it as a commercial vehicle for transporting materials, or will it be a family vehicle for going on outdoor adventures?
You should think about your space needs once you've decided what you'll be doing with the vehicle. If you need more space for passengers, you may need a double cab, but you must also make sure that the vehicle has enough room in the heavy-duty steel tray for luggage and other things you may need to take with you.
A storage trailer might also be necessary, but attaching it to your dual cab wouldn't be difficult. You will still have enough room to fit your camping equipment into the vehicle and make road trips with your family.
Suppose you need a vehicle that will be suitable for transporting goods. In that case, a single cab chassis may be the best choice for you since it offers the most space in the tray.
Does the Toyota LandCruiser 79 Series Offer Value for Money?
Overall, we highly recommend this series for those who need more than just a car to transport them from place to place. You'll be happy to know that one of the best things about these vehicles is that they hold their value.
This is because of their durable build and ability to handle anything you throw at them for years and years. Plus, as an iconic vehicle for the Australian Outback, these incredible workhorses are always in demand because they are so resilient, sturdy, and adaptable.
Is the Toyota LandCruiser 79 Series a Good Investment?
Now that you know what these vehicles offer, is it a good idea to invest in one?
It doesn't appear that the 79 Series LandCruiser will relinquish its reign as the king of the Outback any time soon! The durability and sturdiness of these vehicles are well known, so if you're looking for a vehicle that will provide the greatest ROI, we recommend choosing a vehicle in this range.
If you choose to purchase one of these workhorses, be prepared for years of resilient driving. Because it is a demanding and tough vehicle, a 79 Series LandCruiser is a fantastic choice, especially if you're looking for a rugged vehicle to withstand the roughest terrains.
Suppose you intend to go off-road regularly. In that case, there's no better option than this ute. The vehicle is ideal for you if it falls within your spending limit and meets your requirements. Off-road adventure enthusiasts should look into it without a doubt.
Ready to Take a Toyota LandCruiser 79 Series Home?
There's no denying that the Toyota LandCruiser 79 Series is the perfect outdoor workhorse, especially if you love to travel off-road. With so many standard features and constant upgrades to the vehicle, you won't go wrong when choosing the LandCruiser 79 Series!
If you're ready to purchase your very own LandCruiser, you can browse our range of used cars to find a model that best suits your requirements and budget. We have a handy search tool to help you find what you're looking for quickly and easily.
Our friendly advisors would be happy to walk you through the features of your favourite LandCruiser, so if you have any questions, feel free to contact us at (08) 6145 0099!
Are you looking for another vehicle? We have over 2,000 cars for you to choose from! Browse our huge list of quality cars for sale to find what you're looking for. At Westside Auto Wholesale, we also buy cars, so if you have a Toyota LandCruiser 79 Series to sell, we'll be happy to take it off your hands.
We hope you found our Toyota LandCruiser 79 Series review helpful!
