Test Drive Report: Toyota LAND CRUISER 70 AX

A LAND CRUISER 70 Tailored for Modern Needs

Where Heritage Meets Contemporary Evolution

By Hamayan
Former Toyota planner and lifelong car enthusiast. Has driven more than 1,800 cars over his career.

The LAND CRUISER “70,” the very origin of the LAND CRUISER lineage, has been re-released—once again—in Japan. While the model retains the fundamental structure and classic interior/exterior design of the original 70 Series, it has been carefully refined and updated to meet today’s usage needs. I took it for a test drive at LAND CRUISER BASE.

1. Unmistakably the LAND CRUISER 70: A Style with Unrivaled Character and Presence

Positioned as the successor to the 40 Series—then boasting 24 years of history—the LAND CRUISER 70 debuted in 1984. Loved and trusted as a heavy-duty off-road vehicle, it has remained in active service for nearly 40 years, making it one of the longest-running models in Toyota’s lineup.

The latest re-re-released model (76) incorporates subtle updates such as revised headlights, yet its fundamental style remains true to the original 70. Anyone who lays eyes on it will instantly recognize it as a LAND CRUISER 70. Its heritage and tradition radiate through its design, giving it a distinctive character and commanding presence that I felt anew as I examined it.

For a vehicle of this type, its size is not excessively large, and I found it reasonably manageable both in city driving and when parking.

2. A Function-First Interior, Thoughtfully Updated for Modern Use

Open the driver side door and look up into the tall cabin, and you’ll find a functional, purpose-built interior true to its off-road SUV identity. The horizontal dashboard layout and highly visible instrumentation are designed with “easy operation even in extreme conditions” in mind. Controls are placed exactly where they should be—functional, straightforward, and essentially unchanged for 40 years.

That said, several areas have been updated to match modern expectations. Safety-related displays and controls, along with navigation and infotainment elements, have been integrated in a way that allows this 40-year-old platform to function as a contemporary vehicle. The updates feel appropriate and well-executed.

While some elements—such as the air-conditioning controls—retain an old-school touch, the overall interface remains intuitive and easy to use. As a result, the LAND CRUISER 70’s “extreme-condition operability” translates well to everyday, urban driving. It requires little adjustment and can be driven with confidence.

3. Lively, Torquey Diesel Performance Paired with a Smooth Automatic Transmission

The powertrain is well-chosen for a modern update. The 2.8-liter turbo diesel initially exhibits the characteristic sound and vibration of a diesel engine, but once warmed up it feels light, smooth, and refined.

With 204 PS and 500 Nm paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission, the vehicle delivers satisfying performance in city acceleration and steady-speed cruising. It made me think, “This works perfectly well as a daily on-road vehicle.” Among the various updates, the most substantial refinement in this re-released 70 may very well be the powertrain.

4. A Distinct Body-on-Frame Ride, Yet Acceptably Tuned for On-Road Use

The ride quality bears the unmistakable characteristics of a body-on-frame vehicle—firm yet relaxed in its own unique way. The test car was equipped with aftermarket parts available from LAND CRUISER BASE, including suspension and tires designed for serious off-road use. As such, its on-road manners are not its strongest suit, yet it still felt “reasonably adapted” to pavement driving.

With a ladder frame and rigid axles, the ride has a distinct personality—one that some may even call charmingly intense.

■ Overall Impressions

A vehicle that lets you experience both the LAND CRUISER heritage and modern evolution
・ Strongly evokes the heritage and tradition of the 70 Series
・ Simultaneously reflects modern advancements in its powertrain and interior

Usable on-road, but fundamentally rooted in off-road performance
・ Basic performance and ease of use are sufficient for comfortable on-road driving
・ Yet its true value lies in being an “off-road-first” SUV

A true heritage model that fully inherits the LAND CRUISER name and legacy—radiating a commanding presence

■ Test Vehicle Details

• Model: Toyota LAND CRUISER “70” AX
• Dimensions (L/W/H/WB/Weight): 4890 × 1870 × 1920 mm / 2730 mm / 2300 kg
• Engine: 2.75L inline-4 diesel, 204 PS @ 3000–3400 rpm, 500 Nm @ 1600–2800 rpm
• Drivetrain: AWD, 6-speed AT, WLTC 10.1 km/L
• Suspension (Front/Rear): Coil rigid / Leaf rigid
• Tires: 265/70R16

Test Route:
Conducted June 17, 2025
Toyota Auto Body LAND CRUISER BASE
Approx. 5 km loop (public roads)