The 4.5-liter turbodiesel V8, which launched in 2007, will remain in production until all outstanding orders are fulfilled. Toyota stopped taking orders for the V8 nearly two years ago, but the backlog is significant. The final V8-powered models, including the Wagon, Troop Carrier, WorkMate, and GX, will be built in September 2024, with the 79-Series losing the eight-cylinder engine in late 2025.
Toyota's decision to discontinue the turbodiesel V8 was driven by evolving regulations. Sean Hanley, vice president of sales, marketing, and franchise operations for Toyota's Australian division, stated that abandoning the 70-Series was not an option. Since 1985, Toyota has sold 346,742 units of the 70-Series in Australia, including 171,010 with the V8 engine.
Moving forward, the 70-Series will be equipped exclusively with a 2.8-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine introduced in 2023. Borrowed from the Hilux pickup, this engine produces 201 horsepower from 3,200 to 3,400 rpm and 331 pound-feet (450 Nm) of torque between 1,600 and 3,000 rpm. For comparison, the outgoing V8 delivered 202 horsepower at 3,400 rpm and 316 pound-feet (430 Nm) of torque at 1,200 rpm. Starting in October 2024, the turbo-four engine will be paired with an enhanced version of the V8's five-speed manual transmission. This transmission features shorter first, second, and third gears for improved off-the-line performance and a longer fifth gear for better fuel economy and reduced noise on the highway.
Pricing information and additional performance specifications will be released later in 2024. Although the 70-Series is one of the oldest SUVs on the market, its ruggedness and off-road capabilities remain highly valued. The model is especially popular in Australia and is utilized by the Red Cross in regions with challenging road conditions. However, there are no indications that the 70-Series will be available in other markets, including the U.S.
Source: Autoblog
