The Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series, a beloved off-roader in Australia, has made its return to the market after a nearly year-long pause. The iconic vehicle has undergone several key updates to comply with the latest emissions regulations and meet the evolving needs of Australian drivers.
One of the most notable changes is the introduction of a 20-liter AdBlue tank which is essential for meeting the Euro 6d emissions standard. This system injects urea into the exhaust stream to significantly reduce nitrogen oxide emissions, ensuring the vehicle’s compliance with environmental regulations. The AdBlue refueling flap is conveniently located on the front left fender for double cab-chassis models and between the cab and rear wheels for single cab-chassis versions.
The Return of the LandCruiser 70 Series
The LandCruiser 70 Series has always been a favorite among Australian off-road enthusiasts, and its return is eagerly anticipated. The vehicle’s 2.8-liter turbo-diesel engine remains unchanged in terms of power output, continuing to deliver 201 hp (150 kW) and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque. This robust performance ensures that the LandCruiser 70 Series maintains its reputation as a reliable and capable off-roader.
However, the return of the LandCruiser 70 Series is not without its caveats. Currently, only models equipped with the six-speed automatic transmission are available for order. The five-speed manual transmission which was previously offered in the 78 Series, 79 Series double-cab chassis, and 76 Series GXL versions, remains unavailable for the time being. Toyota Australia has not provided a definitive timeline for the return of the manual transmission, leaving enthusiasts in anticipation.
Key Changes and Updates
In addition to the AdBlue system, the LandCruiser 70 Series has undergone another significant change. The 78-Series Troopcarrier model now features a reduced fuel tank capacity, downsized from 180 liters (47.5 gallons) to 130 liters (34.3 gallons). This adjustment brings the Troopcarrier in line with the fuel tank capacities of other 70 Series models, ensuring consistency across the range.
The introduction of the AdBlue system and the reduction in fuel tank capacity are part of Toyota’s ongoing efforts to comply with the Euro 6 Stage C emissions regulations which were introduced in 2026. These regulations require newly introduced models with a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) of more than 3,500 kg to meet stringent tailpipe emissions standards. From November 1, 2026, these regulations were extended to include all existing applicable vehicles sold in Australia.
The Impact on Sales and Availability
The pause in orders for the LandCruiser 70 Series, which began in July last year, was driven by supply constraints and the need to manage customer expectations. Despite the hiatus, the model’s popularity has remained strong. According to John Pappas Toyota Australia’s Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Franchise Operations, the order books are now back open, allowing customers to once again explore the capabilities of the LandCruiser 70 Series.
While the automatic transmission models are now available, the future of the manual transmission remains uncertain. Toyota Australia has indicated that the manual versions of the 78 Series, 79 Series double-cab chassis, and 76 Series GXL wagon are still off sale ‘for the time being.’ This leaves a gap in the market for enthusiasts who prefer the traditional manual gearbox.
The LandCruiser 70 Series has long been a staple in the Australian market, known for its durability and off-road capabilities. The recent updates ensure that it continues to meet the highest standards of performance and environmental compliance. As the model makes its comeback, it is poised to once again capture the hearts of Australian drivers who demand reliability and ruggedness in their vehicles.
