Toyota Is Still Selling an Old-School LandCruiser
Although it is 2022, Toyota is still building an SUV that first went into production in 1984. And guess what, if you live in the United States, you likely can’t buy one. The Toyota LandCruiser 70 is a purpose-built workhorse, designed to handle some of the most rugged terrains. A variety of configurations are available, but each is fairly basic. Toyota even advertises that air-conditioning comes standard, if that tells you anything about the LandCruiser 70.
What is the Toyota LandCruiser 70?
The 70 Series Land Cruiser SUV was first introduced in the 1980s. And in some parts of the world, it is still possible to buy a new one. Which is a fairly confusing proposition until you realize what this vehicle is for. It’s not like other luxury Toyota Land Cruiser models, it is a pure workhorse.
A variety of different configurations are available depending on a buyer’s specific needs. These include traditional SUV models as well as versions with a truck bed. Because of this, the LandCruiser 70 is a fairly versatile vehicle. Buyers can even benefit from a 4.5-liter V8 turbodiesel engine that makes ample power and torque.
How old-school is the LandCruiser 70?
The Toyota LandCruiser 70 is an extremely old-school vehicle. It comes with halogen headlamps and a simplistic interior. It also features a big V8 engine, something that other modern vehicles are beginning to stray away from.
Other notable features that can be had with this vehicle include its snorkel. A snorkel helps with things like water fording, but it also aids in handling dusty roads. But, the LandCruiser 70 is not all old-school. Toyota has added a 6.1-inch touchscreen display. There is also an engine immobilizer to help deter theft.
Can you buy a LandCruiser 70 in the United States?
Unfortunately, if you are interested in this SUV, you cannot buy a new one in the United States. Due to various regulations, the LandCruiser 70 does not meet automotive standards in the States. Meaning that Toyota is unable to sell it. Although, even if the brand could, it might be unlikely. Toyota just discontinued the Land Cruiser in the U.S., and now if you want a new Land Cruiser, you must look to Lexus.
However, if you really want to import a Land Cruiser, if it is over 25 years old, you can do so. But importing vehicles is no easy task. According to MotorTrend, there are companies out there that do take care of most of the leg work.
How good is this SUV?
Clearly, because Toyota is still selling it, this variant of the Land Cruiser is fairly good at what it does. It may not have a lot of modern amenities, but that’s not really the point.
Surely, there are plenty of folks out there who are envious of the regions that do have access to the LandCruiser 70. Although there are plenty of new SUVs and Trucks sold in the States, none are quite like what this vehicle brings to the table.
