By Steve & Tamami Laser
As Toyota’s longest-running nameplate, the rugged Land Cruiser has been offered in a wide variety of bodystyles and configurations. In America, for example, the current Land Cruiser is a luxurious SUV based on the 200 series model. While the Land Cruiser sold across the pond in the UK is a smaller SUV, also known as the Land Cruiser Prado, in Japan and other markets.
Now, Toyota UK is expanding its lineup with new commercial versions of the Land Cruiser. Officially called the “Toyota Land Cruiser Utility Commercial,” businesses and fleet users can select short wheelbase 3-door (above and below) and long wheelbase 5-door models based on the updated 2018 Land Cruiser passenger SUV.
The newest Land Cruiser joins Toyota UK’s Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) market segment that also includes the Hilux pickup and Proace cargo van. On the outside, Commercial Land Cruisers look similar to the entry level passenger Utility model riding on 17-inch steel wheels.
The side-hinged tailgate with flip-up glass is designed for cargo-loading flexibility. Rear quarter windows are covered with film matching the exterior bodycolor. On 5-door models, film also covers the rear side-door windows while the doors remain functional to provide access to the cargo area.
Commercial models are powered by the same 1GD-FTV 2.8-liter D-4D DOHC 4-cylinder diesel engine with common-rail injection as the passenger versions rated at 177 hp (DIN) and 420 Nm of torque for the 3-door and 450 Nm for the 5-door. A 6-speed manual gearbox and permanent 4-wheel drive with Torsen limited-slip center differential are standard.
Toyota says the load space is designed to be practical and hard-wearing with an edge-to-edge non-slip flat rubber-lined floor tray. A metal bulkhead with a mesh top section and opening hatch separates the cargo and passenger compartments. Four tie-down points are included in the load space to help secure items. Maximum payload ratings are quoted at 593kg for the 3-door and 756kg for the 5-door.
While rear seats are removed on Commercial models, front passengers are treated to reclining and sliding cloth-trimmed bucket seats with manual height and lumbar adjustment on the driver’s side. Standard creature comforts include smart entry and push-button start, cruise control, manual (3-door) or dual-zone (5-door) air conditioning, a color 4.2-inch TFT multi-information display, radio with CD player, Bluetooth, and AUX and USB ports.
The roster of safety features includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Adjustable Speed Limiter (ASL), Active Traction Control (A-TRC), Trailer Sway Control (5-door), SRS airbags, ABS, Brake Assist (BA), Emergency Brake-light Signal (EBS), and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Specifications and features for UK market models are subject to change without notice.
News source and photos courtesy of Toyota (GB) PLC
Story (commentary) © 2018 CarNichiWa.com