Toyota reveals upgraded LandCruiser

New looks, upgraded tech for outback benchmark.

David McCowen

13:3017 August 2015

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Toyota reveals upgraded LandCruiser

Toyota has revealed a new-look LandCruiser ahead of its local debut in October.

The rugged machine benefits from new safety technology, upgraded engines and revised styling inside and out.

Toyota's facelift includes bluff new styling that brings it into line with SUVs such as the Kluger and Fortuner. A hexagonal grille, set-back headlamps and heavily sculpted bonnet will make the car unmistakable off the beaten track.

The model's popular twin-turbo diesel V8 has come in for changes that lift power by 5kW to 200kW and reduce fuel economy to 9.5L/100km, though its peak torque remains unchanged at 650Nm.

The 4.6-litre V8 petrol engine alternative retains its 227kW and 439Nm outputs, tough Toyota says its fuel economy will be sharpened by the time the car arrives in Australia.

Both motors drive all four wheels through six-speed automatic transmissions.

A revised cabin includes new padding on touch points, along with regrouped controls, additional storage, and a larger 9.0-inch display screen for high grades that also features a new instrument cluster home to a 4.2-inch TFT driver display.

Available with seating for five, seven or eight passengers, the new LandCruiser is crowned by a top-end Sahara version that now includes a front radar and front camera with forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking capabilities along with active cruise control and automatic high beams.

The latest LandCruiser 200 Series is one of four rough and ready machines set to bolster Toyota's position at the top of the sales charts this year.

The iconic off-roader will join upgraded versions of the Prado four-wheel-drive and HiLux ute as well as the brand's new Fortuner SUV in showrooms before the end of the year.

Toyota will confirm full pricing and specifications for the LandCruiser closer to its launch date.