Toyota has given its formidable LC 79 DC a 4,5-litre V8 turbodiesel unit. In a bid to show everyone just how capable these two vehicles are, the Japanese manufacturer held the local launch at Dinokeng Game Reserve just outside of Johannesburg so that local journalists could experience these vehicles where they are most at home … off-road.
Toyota Land Cruiser 79 V8 DC
Engine and off-road drive
This particular model houses the new V8 diesel unit. It delivers 151 kW at 3 400 r/min and 430 N.m at a low 1 200 r/min and continues until 2 000 r/min. This came in handy when we needed the extra shove to get over or around tough off-road obstacles. The engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission system that’s easy to use with long throws and sends drive to all four wheels. For the trickier off-road parts of the launch route, we moved the 4WD transfer lever into 4H and we engaged the front diff-lock, rear diff-lock or both – depending on what the situation called for. This then transferred extra torque to whichever wheel needed it.
The off-roading capabilities of the LC can hardly be disputed. It has soldiered on for many years and plenty of hardcore off-road enthusiasts swear by it. During the time we had it off the beaten track, no matter how difficult the course became, the LC made light work of it all.
It’s a strong off-road vehicle, so it’s expected to have a suspension set-up to match. The front set-up is a live-axle with coil springs while the rear has leaf springs with a live axle. Naturally, there’s a lot of travel in this set-up and, as a result, the off-road driving experience is as comfortable as one can expect from going over rocks and bumpy ridges.
Standard features outside and in
On the road, the LC looks a bit outdated with its old-school appearance among the more modern toys that dot our local highways. However, the LC’s look is something that obviously works and the most modern thing on the outside is the fresh grille. Inside it’s a bit more high-tech (loosely speaking) with a digital infotainment system, rake and reach adjustment on the steering, air-conditioning, electric windows, electric mirrors and a 12V accessory connector as standard.
Specifications
Model: Toyota Land Cruiser 79 V8 DC
Price: R567 600
Engine: 4,5-litre V8 turbocharged diesel
Power: 151 kW @ 3 400 r/min
Torque: 430 N.m @ 1 200 r/min
Fuel consumption: 11,55 litres/100 km
Fuel tank size: 130 litres
Approach/departure angels: 33 degrees/27 degrees
Ground clearance: 235 mm
Serv/maint: Optional
Toyota FJ Cruiser
The FJ Cruiser has been given a few added features in a bid to make it a better off-road vehicle. This includes the addition of an additional 87-litre fuel tank (bringing the total capacity to 159 litres) and the adoption of crawl control.
We were able to put this crawl control to the test on the off-road track during the local launch. Essentially, this system allows the driver to have a “feet-off” approach to steep hills and slippery terrain. It’s also useful when trying to get a vehicle unstuck should it get grounded in some mud or sand. Luckily, no one got stuck on the launch, but I was able to test this system up a steep hill.
I engaged the system from the overhead console and decided on the medium speed setting (there are five speeds). I merely steered the vehicle while it er.. crawled up the hill on its own by controlling the engine output and brake hydraulic pressure. Toyota claims that the crawl control “increases vehicle stability in extreme four-wheel driving conditions by minimising wheel spin and tyre lock-up”.
Under the bonnet of the FJ Cruiser lies a 4,0-litre V6 unit that pushes out 200 kW at 5 600 r/min and 380 N.m at 4 400 r/min. The FJ is a part-time 4×4 vehicle and comes fitted with a five-speed automatic transmission and a rear diff-lock.
Standard features include electric windows, an audio system with a CD player, iPod connector, USB port and Bluetooth hands-free connection. All of these can be controlled via the satellite controls on the steering wheel. Other features include air-con, cruise control and a rear-view camera.
Specifications
Model: Toyota FJ Cruiser
Price: R462 200 – R485 200
Engine: 4,0-litre V6 petrol
Power: 200 kW @ 5 600 r/min
Torque: 380 N.m @ 4 400 r/min
Fuel consumption: 11,4 litres/100 km
Fuel tank size: 159 litres (72 + 87)
Approach/departure angels: 34 degrees/31 degrees
Service plan: 5 years/90 000 km
