Toyota Land Cruiser V8 in Detail

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The Toyota Land Cruiser V8 was launched in September continuing the SUV legend that was first launched in 1951. The Land Cruiser is the longest running model in Toyota's line-up being sold in over 5 million units worldwide. The Toyota Land Cruiser V8 represents the 8th generation of the Japanese off-roader.

Toyota Press Release:

The heritage of Land Cruiser

- A legend in the worldwide SUV market
- The first official Toyota export
- Global best-seller

The Land Cruiser name is synonymous with Toyota’s

worldwide brand values of outstanding quality, durability and reliability. First launched in 1951, Land Cruiser is almost as old as Toyota itself and, in 1956, it became the first mass-production Toyota model to be exported from Japan.

The launch of a new Toyota Land Cruiser is a highly significant event. As four-wheel-drive specialists would attest, no other car has driven as many roads and off-road tracks – just one of the reasons why Land Cruiser remains a legend around the world.



Land Cruiser Chief Engineer Sadayoshi Koyari explains: “For almost 60 years now, three key words have been the basis of each generation of Land Cruiser: strength, durability and reliability. With the latest generation we were determined to recognise the loyalty of Land Cruiser customers by providing a vehicle that will never betray their trust.”

All-new Land Cruiser V8

- 8th generation
- Longest-running Toyota model
- Best-selling SUV in the world; more than 5 million customers

The all-new Land Cruiser V8 is the eighth in a line of long-wheelbase, station wagon-style Land Cruisers. With a heritage that stretches back 57 years, it is the longest-running model in the Toyota line-up.

This world-beating, go-anywhere Land Cruiser has led the expansion of the company since the 1950s, taking the Toyota brand to new continents and previously untapped markets.

Land Cruiser V8’s roots can be traced right back to the Toyota BJ, the first four-wheel-drive vehicle developed by the company and produced early in 1951. Powered by a 3.4-litre, six-cylinder engine, the BJ rapidly developed a reputation for its toughness and its ability to go anywhere.

Within six months of its creation the BJ had become a champion, climbing to the sixth hill station of Japan’s Mount Fuji, 2,500 metres up. It was the first ever vehicle to get this far. As a result of this performance, the BJ was added to the Japanese police fleet and the model’s success began. In 1954 the latest BJ, the Type 25, was given a generic model name – Land Cruiser – which has been used ever since.

As Toyota began its worldwide export and growth programme during the 1950s and 1960s, it found that many established markets were already well penetrated by American and European automakers, leaving little room for new entrants from Japan. Strategically, Toyota decided to focus on the emerging markets of the Middle East, south-east Asia and South America.

In 1967, Toyota responded to the popular trend in the American market for more refined 4x4 vehicles with the launch of the Land Cruiser Station Wagon FJ55V. This was to create a new generation of Land Cruisers, running in parallel with the original ‘jeep-style’ off-road concept.

Over the years, Land Cruiser has become synonymous with Toyota throughout the world. From Australian outback to the Russian steppes and the streets of Europe, the vehicle is loved for its all-round capabilities: highly reliable, tough off-road, yet sufficiently comfortable and refined to go anywhere and be seen everywhere.

The Land Cruiser range continues to be a worldwide sales success and is the best-selling SUV ever, with more than five million customers since launch. It is sold in more than 140 countries and produced in nine Toyota manufacturing plants around the globe (all body types). The major markets are the Middle East, Australia and Europe.

A new generation

- Genuine off-road capability
- Advanced technical development
- More refinement and comfort

Typical Land Cruiser customers look for modern technology in their cars, but they also value the brand heritage behind the badge and the authentic ‘Land Cruiser style’.

With each and every new Land Cruiser, Toyota has the same fundamental aims. The first is to build on the vehicle’s tradition of reliability, durability and off-road performance; the second is to improve handling stability, ride comfort and driving pleasure.

Chief Engineer Sadayoshi Koyari says: “At the start of this project, back in 2002, we considered the future direction of Land Cruiser. Environmental concerns had to be taken into account, alongside the evolving expectations of a global customer base with a strong demand for Land Cruiser.

I am confident that the all-new Land Cruiser V8 has the genuine off-road capability to strengthen Toyota’s reputation for advanced technology, while offering increased refinement and a premium market position. The new Land Cruiser is a real, go-anywhere adventure vehicle.”

The global sales target for the new generation Land Cruiser V8 is 100,000 units in 2008. Around 19,500 vehicles will come to Europe. The outstanding 4x4 capability of the Land Cruiser is especially valued in Russia, making it a major market with a target of 9,600 units.

Across Europe, typical Land Cruiser customers are self-confident and successful people from higher income brackets. They are often early adopters of advanced technology and appreciate Land Cruiser for its blend of technical ability, durability, refinement and a genuinely adventurous off-road spirit.

The all-new Land Cruiser V8 delivers improvements in all of these aspects, together with improved safety and comfort, ensuring that Toyota’s flagship model continues to satisfy customers’ needs and expectations right around the world.

Powerful, functional design

- Advanced and rugged exterior
- Form and function in refined interior
- Versatile seating with five or seven seats

For over 50 years, Land Cruiser’s credentials and place in the Toyota line-up have been built on consistently high levels of aspiration, quality and technical sophistication. Land Cruisers have come to embody Toyota’s world-beating four-wheel-drive capability. The design of the new generation Land Cruiser V8 needed to respect this heritage, while bringing Toyota’s off-road image up-to-date.

The new Land Cruiser V8 sweeps away the image of a typical passenger vehicle with a rugged and powerful exterior design and bold shapes inside. The exterior styling has a strong emphasis on function while retaining many characteristics of previous generations while the interior reflects the refined, premium status of the vehicle.

The new Land Cruiser V8 is practical too; available with both five- and seven-seat configurations, ample space for all passengers, and a flexible load-carrying ability with seats that tumble and fold to create a flat floor.

Created and styled at the Toyota design centre in Aichi, Japan, the new Land Cruiser V8 exemplifies ‘Vibrant Clarity’, an aspect of Toyota’s brand design philosophy. This ethos guides Toyota’s development of off-road models that are vibrant and energetic, while retaining clarity of purpose.

Land Cruiser V8 Chief Engineer, Sadayoshi Koyari, explains: “The key word we selected to focus the design evolution of the new Land Cruiser V8 was ‘trust’. The reputation and trust built by previous generations of Land Cruiser is therefore heeded in the new design. Further strengthening of this trust between customers and the new generation Land Cruiser V8 is encouraged by blending a strong, dynamic design with an advanced sense of function. This creates a modern, aspirational vehicle with a strong focus on four-wheel drive and genuine off-road driving. It brings the Land Cruiser brand identity up-to-date, and further leverages the heritage of the vehicle.”

Powerful exterior styling

- Bold lines and eye-catching surfaces
- Dynamic road presence
- Integrated front and rear styling

The new generation Land Cruiser V8 achieves its advanced and rugged look with a powerful, clean exterior design; this is achieved through on a strong shoulder line, eye-catching surfaces and large front and rear fenders. This gives new Land Cruiser a thoroughly modern feel as a functional yet premium 4x4 vehicle. The size and shape of the side windows emphasise the roomy cabin with good visibility, and the fenders project an image of excellent off-road performance.

The new Land Cruiser V8 is slightly longer, taller and wider than the current generation which gives it a more dynamic stance. But the increases in size have been kept to a minimum to maintain the manoeuvrability of Land Cruiser in tight, off-road situations.

The overall length of the new Land Cruiser is 4950 mm (up by 60 mm), the width is 1970 mm (up by 30 mm) and height is 1865 mm (with 4W AHC & AVS suspension) or 1910 mm (with KDSS suspension). Clever design to maximise interior space and a shortened engine compartment means that the interior cabin length has been increased by 130 mm (from the accelerator pedal to the back door), adding to passenger comfort and convenience.

The chromed radiator grille and the headlamps are all integrated to create a strong horizontal line. The impression of refinement and premium quality is enhanced by the bright alloy finish that highlights the outer frame of the grille.

At the rear, the powerful stance and flared wheel arches that emphasise the overall width are inherited from the existing Land Cruiser design, as is the configuration of the independent right and left combination rear lamps.

These large rear combination lamps use Light-Emitting Diodes (LED) arranged in a two-lamp design to improve visibility. The integrated tail and stop lamps together with the rear direction indicators feature a combination of clear outer lenses and red inner lenses to convey a premium impression.

The integrated rear roof spoiler is body coloured to blend in with the sleek lines, and enhances the aerodynamic performance and fuel efficiency. The split rear tailgate features a ‘clamshell’ design which is convenient when opening in confined areas and also makes loading of heavy objects easier.

The new Land Cruiser V8 will be available with a choice of nine exterior colours. Of these colours, two are newly developed (gold sand and dark green olive), three are newly available and four have been brought forward from the current generation.

Refined and stylish interior

- Sense of scale and space
- Strong, bold shapes
- Wood trim detailing

Function and form are key elements of the interior, which has been designed to reflect the refinement and premium status of Land Cruiser V8 while still allowing a sense of ruggedness and reliability. The interior is practical too, with a choice of a five- or seven-seat configuration, ample space for all passengers and versatile seat folding for maximum luggage capacity.

The sense of scale and space is achieved through the appearance of the instrument panel and the large centre cluster and console. A strong horizontal emphasis in the design of the instrument panel ensures that the angle of the vehicle is intuitively understood by the driver.

Detailed wood grain highlights add style; for added sophistication they are paired with slim chromeplated bars with a low gloss finish.

The lower instrument panel features “hold bar” panels with a texture similar to sculpted metal. In keeping with this architectural feel, these panels appear to support the upper instrument panel, and practical, shaped knee pads are installed to improve comfort and support on rough roads.

A two-tone design that incorporates new interior colours expresses a sense of refinement. Darker colours are used on the instrument panel and trim areas, while mid tones are used in the upholstered areas such as the seats to create a contrast. Two colour schemes are available: sand beige or medium grey.

The door trims contribute towards this coherent design through the use of material to match the seats at shoulder height and on the armrests. Wood grain and chrome-plated bars set the style, while the functional parts such as the inside door handle, door grip, and switch base are designed as one continuous, easy-to-use element.

On the main instrument panel, newly designed hi-tech 3D Optitron meters are used. The diameter of the main gauge has been expanded to improve visibility and the sub-gauges – crucial in SUVs – are positioned in the centre of the meter panel along with the multi-information display.

The steering wheel was designed with its characteristic large centre pad, and large steering wheel switches can be operated easily, even when wearing gloves. Operational parts such as the automatic transmission shift knob, door handles, and audio switches are also large with an enhanced tactile feeling to create a sense of quality.

Versatile and functional interior

- Choice of five- or seven-seat configuration
- Seats can tumble and fold
- Second row slides for extra leg room

The functionality of the new Land Cruiser is amply demonstrated by the versatile seating arrangement with the choice of five or seven seats, offering plenty of passenger and luggage space. The seats were designed with the focus on function demanded in a genuine off-roader: firm lower back support and free shoulder movement. A comfortable ride is also achieved through the use of firm, thick cushioning to ensure a stable seat position. This is further stabilised through high damping effects. The second row of seats is split 40:20:40 with an independent seat back for the centre seat, featuring an integral headrest. All three seats can slide backwards and forwards by 105 mm to ensure ample leg room for any third row passengers, and they also recline.

All three seats can also tumble forward for maximum load carrying capacity while the seat behind the front passenger – most frequently used for third row access – features a one-touch tumble for easy entry. Just by pulling the seat lever, the seat back support is folded forward and the floor lock is released. On seven-seat models two individual adult-sized seats are provided with ‘space-up’ folding. This uses a damper mechanism to automatically pop the seat up from the seating position to the stored position when unlocked. Seats fold neatly away against the wall of the luggage compartment and are locked in place.

Enhanced all-round driving dynamics

- World first: Crawl Control
- World first: 4-wheel Active Height Control and Adaptive Variable Suspension (4W ahc & avs )
- European first: Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS)
- New Torsen® limited slip centre differential

With the development of the new generation Land Cruiser V8, Toyota has created a premium four-wheel-drive SUV with refinement and comfort, without sacrificing its authentic off-road performance. As a result, the new Land Cruiser V8 can truly claim to be the most capable, ultimate go-anywhere vehicle.

After almost 60 years of off-road heritage, Land Cruiser drivers expect their car to perform perfectly on the toughest tracks and trails across the world, offering superior driving performance and refinement. With Land Cruiser’s legendary reputation for quality, durability and reliability, they accept no compromise.

Different from any other four-wheel-drive car, the Land Cruiser V8 offers technical support to the driver that makes tricky sections passable, in terrain where even the most skillful drivers might otherwise struggle. This makes the new Toyota Land Cruiser V8 one of the most technically advanced four-wheel-drive vehicles ever. It is packed with features to make on- and off-road driving safer, more comfortable and more pleasurable.

Superior handling and stability, both on- and off-road, is achieved with the sophisticated suspension design which features several newly developed supporting systems to match the allnew platform.

At the front, coil springs replace the former torsion bar design to offer better ride comfort and control. The suspension design is based on a double wishbone layout with inclined coil springs and dampers for optimum stability.

The front wheel stroke has been increased by 11% for bound and 18% for rebound, now reaching 230 mm in order to improve performance over rough ground. At the same time the whole suspension unit is strong enough to withstand the most rigorous conditions. Yet ride comfort and steering feel have actually been enhanced, through careful tuning and precise geometry.

The well-established, four link coil rear suspension from the current generation Land Cruiser is carried over to the new model – but has been retuned to provide significantly better handling, ride comfort and off-road performance. Roll steer has been optimised by moving the control arm position to ensure superior handling and stability, while the characteristics and size of bushes have been evaluated for optimum ride comfort.

Long travel suspension of 230/240 mm front/rear and short overhangs ensure that the new Land Cruiser V8 can tackle the roughest road surfaces. The maximum approach angle is 32° (31° with 4W AHC & AVS) and the maximum departure angle is 24° (23° with 4W AHC & AVS). The ramp break over angle is 25° (24° with 4W AHC & AVS suspension).

The standard grade of the new Toyota Land Cruiser V8 is equipped with a brand new suspension control technology that provides improved driving performance, comfort and body roll control without an external power source. This new control technology, Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), is likely to be adopted by Toyota as an important new direction for the future.

KDSS automatically adjusts both front and rear anti-roll stabiliser bar function characteristics depending on the type of road to be used: active stabilising is in permanent use for on-road driving, whilst the system automatically disables the two stabiliser bars as soon as it comes to demanding off-road driving situations. The automatic actuation of KDSS is based on the movement of hydraulic cylinders that form part of the anti-roll bar mounts. The cylinders, both connected by hydraulic pipes, are applied in parallel during on-road use and in an anti-parallel mode during the typical off-road articulation of the two axes.

When body roll occurs during cornering on flat ground, hydraulic pressure is generated by the cylinder which is controlling the stabiliser bar. Due to the oil pressure flow between the front and the rear cylinders, they will cancel each other out and not stroke, thereby freezing the stabiliser bar. This allows the anti-roll bars to perform normally, suppressing body roll to an acceptable level. However, when front and rear wheels move out of sequence in a diagonal pattern, as typically occurs when driving over rough ground, the hydraulic connection system releases on the antiroll bar and it does not twist. As a consequence, the full suspension stroke can occur without hindrance. This helps ensure excellent traction control and riding comfort, good stability and excellent rough road performance.

Advanced control technologies

- Crawl Control on petrol engine
- 4-wheel AHC & AVS System

On the new Land Cruiser V8 there are further world-beating, advanced technologies to give the driver complete control under the harshest driving conditions, and also enhance occupant comfort and safety. These include the world’s first Crawl Control system and the world’s first 4-wheel Active Height Control and Adaptive Variable Suspension (4W AHC &AVS).

Crawl Control, standard on petrol engine models only, gives the driver maximum control and confidence when driving on surfaces that require delicate speed adjustments such as rocks or sand. The system will automatically control the engine output and brake hydraulic pressure to maintain a steady, slow speed between 1-5 km/h. All the driver has to do is steer, allowing full concentration on the track ahead without worrying about wheel slip or spin.

Crawl Control reduces the burden on the driver, ensures vehicle stability and reduces the likelihood of damage to the vehicle by lowering stress and load on the drive train.

The Crawl Control switch has three pre-selected positions (LO/MID/HI, corresponding to around 1, 3 and 5 km/h), which determine the most appropriate vehicle speed. For instance, LO would be suitable for very rough, rocky road surfaces while HI might be suitable for dune-type sections, gravel or grass.

When Crawl Control is activated, the indicator will light and the slip indicator will blink when stationary, and in other specific conditions. The Crawl Control status is indicated on the multiinformation display in the instrument panel.

The logic for Crawl Control has been developed based on the pedal operations of real off-road driving experts. Constant speed is maintained by automatically increasing or decreasing the engine output and brake pressure simultaneously, based upon a comparison between the vehicle speed and wheel speeds against the selected Crawl Control speed.

With Crawl Control it is possible to achieve smooth, safe off-road driving, impressing even the most highly skilled off-road expert.

4W AHC & AVS

- Luxury grade specification
- All four wheels linked
- Spring rate control
- Quicker height adjustment

The suspension of all four wheels on Land Cruiser V8 is linked for the first time through the new fully adjustable suspension system, 4-wheel Active Height Control and Adaptive Variable Suspension (4W AHC & AVS). Spring rate control is also featured, making this the most sophisticated suspension system available in an SUV and another world first for the Land Cruiser V8.

This new suspension control system, standard on the luxury grade depending on local market, not only allows Land Cruiser V8 to achieve optimum off-road performance but also provides exceptional on-road refinement, comfort, pitch and body roll control.

The new spring rate control function operates on the front suspension and is operated by one single control valve that influences the suspension characteristics when turning or braking. This means that the front suspension can be stiffened to reduce roll or pitch angle during high-speed manoeuvres, but softened during normal driving to ensure maximum ride comfort.

To achieve a superior performance both on- and off-road, a new mechanical system that functions as a link between the four wheels has been adopted. On-road, the balanced pressure across all four wheels ensures stability and comfort. Off-road, the movement of wheels out of phase with each other allows the hydraulic pressure to vary and releases individual wheels for easier stroking through excellent wheel articulation. This increases the ability of the Land Cruiser to soak up the bumps and offers greater ground contact, meaning rough off-road performance is enhanced.

The result is that the Land Cruiser, with its 2850 mm wheelbase, can crawl over steps with a height difference of 630 mm – without lifting a wheel off the ground.

In addition, the vehicle’s Active Height Control (AHC) functions have been enhanced to extend the range of height adjustment and shorten the time it takes to lower the vehicle. The front of the Land Cruiser V8 now has 110 mm of height adjustment while the rear can travel through 100 mm. Normal to low mode take about two seconds. The Land Cruiser is automatically raised when L4 gear mode is selected, and further raised by 20 mm when the 4W AHC & AVS system recognises that the vehicle is stuck. It automatically lowers the vehicle when driving at high speeds to improve stability.

The Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) sub system gives greater ride comfort on-road and new control parameters have also been adopted to allow greater ground-covering performance over rough roads.

Smooth, easy operation drive train

- Full time all-wheel drive system
- All-new transfer unit
- Torsen® limited slip centre differential
- New rotary switch operation for reduction ratios

With greatly increased power and torque to offer a superior driving experience, the Land Cruiser V8’s full time all-wheel drive system needs a new transfer unit which divides the torque front to rear and provides the high and low gearing ratios. The new unit is stronger and lighter and the centre of gravity has been moved forward to improve handling, while the control logic has been improved and the switching performance enhanced.

At the heart of the transfer unit is a newly developed Torsen® ‘torque-sensing’ limited slip centre differential

which gives a smoother cornering performance and improved driving stability. By automatically sensing the drive torque required at each axle the differential can adjust torque between front and rear wheels for greater driving stability.

In a straight-ahead, dry-road mode, the torque distribution is 40/60 front to rear. However, torque can be biased to the front wheels to a maximum of 50%, or to the rear wheels to a maximum of 70%. These limits have been carefully set by calculating the Torsen® differential wheels’ dimension, to maintain the vehicle stability, improve traction and enhance safety. The transfer shift system has been completely redesigned for improved operational efficiency and greater convenience. Operation of the shift from H4 to L4 gearing, which can be operated up to a vehicle speed of 5 km/h, is achieved using a simple, convenient rotary switch. Next to it on the control panel is a button that can lock (or free) the centre differential in the optimal ratio 50/50 to help the Land Cruiser V8 in exceptionally slippery circumstances.

Steering precision

- Variable Gear Ratio System (VGRS)
- Stability both on- and off-road

Driving pleasure on- and off-road is further enhanced by the Variable Gear Ratio System (VGRS), standard on the luxury grade. The steering is a rack and pinion system for maximum straight-line stability at high speeds and vehicle performance at low speeds.

The gear ratio is set larger around the steering centre and smaller around the end position. As a result, rack stroke around the end position is larger to reduce the steering operation at low speed vehicle manoeuvring, while ensuring an optimal response around the steering centre, which suits high speed motorway driving.

The steering column itself is adjustable for both tilt and telescope with a memory function, to allow all drivers to find their optimum driving position. The energy-absorbing mechanism reduces impact energy and the entire column is designed to break away from its mounting bracket and move away from the driver in the event of an accident.

State-of-the-art petrol and diesel V8 engines

- Brand-new V8 diesel
- Latest development of V8 petrol
- New six-speed, sequential auto gearbox

The all-new Toyota Land Cruiser V8 is more than just a go-anywhere, adventure vehicle. As a modern SUV it also offers unbeatable capability on- and off-road, superb refinement and superior driving pleasure.

This flagship of the Toyota four-wheel-drive range is now available with a choice of two of the most powerful and technically advanced engines ever developed by Toyota. They have been developed to enhance the overall performance of Land Cruiser V8 under all road conditions with high power output, a broad controllable torque band, low emissions and low fuel consumption in its class.

The Land Cruiser V8 offers the choice of a brand-new, 4.5-litre V8 D-4D common rail diesel or the latest development of the well-established 4.7-litre V8 petrol engine. With this choice of engines, Land Cruiser V8 customers can choose the power unit that best suits their lifestyle and driving needs without compromising on refinement, comfort or driving pleasure.

Both engines are fully compliant with Euro IV emissions regulations while a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), available in selected markets, further reduces the impact on the environment.

Brand-new V8 diesel

- High power, best-in-class fuel consumption
- Exceptional driving pleasure

At the heart of the new Toyota Land Cruiser V8 engine range in Europe will be the 4.5-litre, V8 D-4D diesel engine that has been newly designed for this SUV. This remarkable new engine offers exceptional performance and driving pleasure along with a level of quietness equal to that of petrol engines.

Toyota’s new V8 diesel is the first Toyota application in the world of common rail technology on an eight cylinder engine. This engine features a twin-turbo for maximum output and is available in combination with a new six-speed sequential gearbox. The engine has been developed on four fundamental principles: high power, low fuel consumption, low noise and exceptional reliability. In this way it satisfies the core values of the Land Cruiser V8 range, offering premium quality, durability and reliability.

The new 4.5-litre V8 D-4D engine also offers significant performance and fuel efficiency benefits over the 4.2 L6 TD engine it replaces, and puts the new Land Cruiser V8 above the competition with best-in-class acceleration and fuel economy.

Maximum power output from the 4,461 cc engine is 210 kW (286 hp DIN) at 3600 rpm and maximum torque is a massive 650 Nm across the extremely wide engine range of 1600 rpm to 2800 rpm. These figures represent a 40% increase in power output and a 50% increase in torque output over the previous 4.2-litre, six cylinder engine.

As a result the new Land Cruiser 4.5 D-4D has a top speed of 210 km/h and will accelerate to 100km/h in 8.2 seconds – a class-leading performance. Fuel economy is best-in-class and is 4% better than the outgoing 4.2 L6 TD diesel, at 10.2 l/100 km on the combined cycle.

Each bank of cylinders on the V8 is served by separate common rail and solenoid injectors. Well proven on the four-cylinder engines, these are adopted to ensure maximum reliability with high engine output and low emissions.

The maximum injection pressure is raised to 1800 bar (compared with 1350 bar on the outgoing 4.2 L6 TD engine) which means finer, more precise injection of fuel leading to more efficient combustion, more power and greater efficiency. The second generation common rail technology also allows for a quieter combustion process enabling two individual pilot injection strokes of around 1 mm³ quantity ahead of the normal injection stroke, all of which happens within a few milliseconds. As a result, combustion noise from the engine is 3.5 dB(A) lower than the previous engine. Two low inertia turbochargers are fitted to provide a rapid response to throttle commands and high power output. They feature variable nozzle technology with the nozzle size controlled by a 12-volt DC electric motor, rather than vacuum diaphragm. This means that the nozzle can be adjusted more quickly and on a continuous basis, leading to greater efficiency and precision.

The new diesel engine block is cast in Compacted Graphite cast Iron (CGI) which offers increased strength (75% stronger compared to the engine block material of the outgoing diesel engine) while reducing weight (down 30%) to improve fuel consumption, weight balance and handling.

CGI is a kind of cast iron that is light, resists wear and corrosion, and is very resistant to heat and shock. By using CGI for the cylinder block, Toyota has reduced noise and saved significant weight when compared with equivalent engines.

Engine durability is further enhanced by fitting an oil scavenging system on the turbochargers to collect surplus oil and reduce blue smoke whenever and wherever you go, such as driving on an inclined road, turning and braking. The engine mounts are 1.5 times stronger than on conventional cars. Two electronically-controlled hydraulic mounts are used on the diesel engine to absorb vibration and enhance driving pleasure at low speed or idle.

Laboratory tests have simulated severe environment conditions to ensure the engine performs faultlessly in temperatures ranging from -30°C to +50°C.

To achieve low exhaust emissions a V8-style Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system is adopted with water cooling and a highly efficient, multi-layered EGR cooler. The EGR gas passages have been designed into the cylinder head to reduce the complexity of parts and weight. Furthermore, two rotary solenoid diesel throttles and linear solenoid EGR valves are used to reduce all visible smoke and avoid unstable combustion.

Refined petrol engine

- Latest development of V8 petrol
- 21% more power, 12% less fuel

The latest development of the 4.7-litre V8 petrol engine for the new Land Cruiser V8 offers a refined and sporty driving experience with exceptionally low levels of noise, vibration and harshness.

Compared to the previous engine, it offers better performance (a 21% increase in available power) and enhanced fuel efficiency (a 12% reduction in fuel consumption, when combined with the five speed automatic transmission).

As a result, the 4.7-litre V8 develops 212 kw (288hp DIN) at 5400 rpm and a massive 445 Nm of torque at 3400 rpm. This is sufficient to give the Land Cruiser a top speed of 200 km/h and it will accelerate to 100 km/h in 9.2 seconds.

The V8 petrol engine is equipped with a number of advanced technologies to enhance driving pleasure, increase performance and fuel efficiency. The Toyota VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing – with intelligence) system is well established as a highly effective way of boosting bottom range torque and mid range power output, while ensuring optimum fuel efficiency through precise control.

The V8 petrol also adopts ACIS (Acoustic Control Induction System) which uses valves to vary the air intake pipe length depending on engine speed and throttle settings. This further improves output at high engine speeds and improves torque at low and medium speed.

An air injection system which introduces air into the exhaust ports during cold starts is designed to improve catalyst warm-up efficiency and reduce emissions during the cold start phase.

These advanced technologies allow the V8 petrol Land Cruiser to achieve exceptional fuel economy for the performance available. The petrol Land Cruiser will return 14.4 l/100 km on the combined European cycle.

Advanced transmissions

- Brand-new six-speed auto
- Artifical Intelligence (AI) Shift
- Sequential manual gear selection

A brand new, six-speed automatic transmission has been developed to match the new 4.5 V8 D-4D diesel and offer exceptional performance, fuel efficiency and smooth driving pleasure. The new gearbox has been designed focusing mainly on off-road driving with an optimal gearing ratio size, while being able to accommodate high torque and impressive levels of quietness during high speed driving.

The new gearbox is controlled with a sequential shift pattern that allows fully automatic gear changes (D position), or manual selection of a gear range by the driver from the sequential position (S position).

In fully automatic mode the gearbox features Artificial Intelligence (AI) Shift control during which it determines road conditions and driver intentions in order to switch to a shift pattern that creates the most effective driving performance. This can take account of uphill or downhill driving and more sporty input from the driver for excellent response during any driving situation.

The new six-speed gearbox for the 4.5 D-4D V8 also features a deceleration downshift which helps slow the Land Cruiser and also provides fuel cut-off control, thus contributing to excellent fuel efficiency.

The current five-speed automatic gearbox is mated to the 4.7-litre V8 petrol engine with improvements in power performance and excellent fuel efficiency. This gearbox also employs AI Shift control and is operated through a sequential shift pattern.

No compromise on quality, durability, reliability

- Body-on-frame construction structure maintained
- Excellent isolation from road noise
- Improved active and passive safety systems

Despite offering extra refinement, more comfort and a superior driving experience, the new Toyota Land Cruiser V8 retains the well-established features that have contributed to its worldwide rugged appeal and genuine off-road status.

These include the traditional and much respected body-on-frame construction with a separate chassis and body structure; advanced technology driving aids such as Downhill Assist Control (DAC) and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC); and a wealth of active and passive safety features, including a brand new multi-terrain ABS system.

Together with Toyota’s legendary engineering skill and the all-new, advanced design, these features will ensure that the new generation Land Cruiser V8 continues to lead the world in quality, durability and reliability – attributes that are essential to Land Cruiser owners.

Toyota has not compromised on the fundamental body-on-frame design. While other manufacturers have moved towards a monocoque design, Toyota has worked with an all-new separate chassis and an advanced suspension design to achieve superior driving pleasure, refinement and quality.

The well-established body-on-frame construction has several advantages for off-road vehicles such as the Land Cruiser V8 that need to retain their go-anywhere capability. Much of the strength of the vehicle to resist the impacts of off-road driving can be built into the chassis, avoiding the need to increase the size or weight of the body and passenger compartment. At the same time, the chassis can be engineered to be capable of absorbing energy impact in the event of a serious collision.

Building strength into the chassis increases the resistance to torsion and twisting, thus giving the designers a stable and strong base on which to mount the body. This improves driving performance and handling, both on and off-road, with extra freedom in suspension design and travel, plus more stable mounting points for steering joints.

Separating the body and chassis means the passenger compartment itself can be better insulated from the shocks and noise of off-road driving – meaning much lower noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) under all driving conditions.

And finally, a strong chassis also allows a towing capacity of 3,500 kg which adds to the versatility and capability of the new Land Cruiser V8.

With a worldwide reputation for reliability and durability, the new Toyota Land Cruiser V8 will continue to take its passengers to all corners of the earth under all conditions.

Strong chassis design

- Increased chassis rail strength
- New hydro-form technology

An all-new high strength, high rigidity frame has been designed to accommodate the body of the new Land Cruiser V8. The cross-sectional height and width of the chassis rail have both been increased to achieve a highly rigid side rail, and high tensile steel is used to reduce weight without compromising on strength.

New hydro-form technology has been used to manufacture specific cross members. This has also increased the joint strength with the side rail, contributing to a frame structure with higher rigidity. Torsional rigidity of the new frame is 1.4 times stronger than the outgoing Land Cruiser and flexural rigidity is 1.2 times stronger.

An additional lightweight front suspension cross member has been used, and the coil support area of the front suspension strengthened for optimum performance.

High-tensile steel is used extensively throughout the body itself and this has been treated for rust resistance across a broad range of the body panels to ensure excellent durability, even in some of the harshest driving conditions in the world.

Noise and vibration transmission has been reduced through a strong, reinforced body structure, installation of sound insulation material and vibration damping throughout the body. Combined with precision-build quality – such as reduced panel gaps and surface level changes – and advanced aerodynamics, the new generation Land Cruiser V8 lives up to its promise as a premiumquality vehicle.

Active Driving Control

- Multi-terrain ABS
- Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)
- Downhill Assist Control (DAC)

The new Land Cruiser V8 offers a range of advanced active-driving control features that give optimum performance under all conditions and road surfaces, for maximum safety and driver confidence.

The new multi-terrain ABS incorporates a new, world-first control logic that recognises any road surface being driven, and automatically switches to the optimum braking control for the conditions.

Using information such as engine output, acceleration rate and wheel speed, the on-board computer can sense off-road driving, such as snow, dirt and sand. It then controls the ABS with the optimal slip rate for the conditions, so that more effective braking and deceleration can be achieved.

Vehicle braking is also enhanced with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA) which detect emergency braking and automatically generate a larger braking force. Large diameter disc brakes (front 340 mm, rear 345 mm) are now fitted as standard to accommodate the wheels (17”, 18’’ or 20’’ depending on local market) and enhance braking performance.

Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), which cuts in when it senses the Land Cruiser V8 is reaching the critical limits of cornering, has been further enhanced with a cut-off switch. This enables the driver to switch off VSC and traction control when it might be automatically reducing engine output while trying to escape with high wheel-spin from mud, fresh snow or other difficult terrain.

Another new development is that the Active Traction Control (A-TRC) now maximises traction and vehicle speed without the operation of a differential lock when operating in low-ratio, four-wheel drive mode (L4). When L4 is selected, the engine output control is removed but the braking system receives stronger hydraulic pressure control.

On the new Land Cruiser V8, A-TRC works in combination with a number of other advanced traction control devices such as Crawl Control, Downhill Assist Control (DAC) and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC).

Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)

- Available on all models
- Boosts driver confidence

Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) allows an easier start when setting off from a steep or slippery hill position. It does this by automatically controlling the brake as the driver moves from brake to accelerator, thereby reducing backward motion.

By controlling the rotation of each individual wheel, Hill-start Assist Control is able to arrest the motion, and this allows the driver to pull away without losing control. This not only boosts hill-start performance but also increases driver confidence in the ability to cope with the challenge ahead.

Downhill Assist Control

- Available on diesel models only
- Prevents slippage down hills

Downhill Assist Control (DAC), available on diesel-engine models, is a brake control system which works automatically on the wheels to control speed and prevent the Land Cruiser V8 from slipping out of control when driving down a steep incline.

In these situations, keeping the vehicle under control can be difficult due to wheel lock, and even engine braking may not be sufficient to reduce vehicle speed. The Downhill Assist Control offers far greater control under these conditions than the foot brake would.

The Downhill Assist Control is driver operated and can be switched on when L4 reduction ratio is selected on the transfer box. It operates at speeds of less than 25 km/h and with the accelerator and brake pedal off. Speeds are controlled to between 4 and 9 km/h if moving forwards and between 2 and 7 km/h if moving backwards.

On petrol engines, the Downhill Assist Control function is replaced by the Crawl Control system.

Passive safety systems

- Pre-crash system senses accidents
- Up to 14 airbags available

The new Toyota Land Cruiser V8 is designed to avoid accidents wherever possible, and to offer maximum protection to occupants if a collision does occur. The on-board passive safety features are intelligent and integrated to work with each other to absorb impact energy and reduce the risk of injury.

An optional newly-developed pre-crash safety system optimises the restraints for front seat passengers by using a motor to tension the front passenger seatbelts in the event of a dangerous situation. For example, this could occur when the on-board sensors determine that the vehicle is spinning, or under sudden braking.

After the impact, two-step force limiters control the tension in the belts, gradually reducing it to minimise the potential force on the chest and abdomen. In this way, front seat occupants are held firmly in place and the potential for injury is reduced.

Further impact protection comes from the 14 SRS airbags which are available on the new Land Cruiser V8 range. For the first time, both driver and front seat passenger have knee airbag protection and both front airbags have a two-stage inflation capability to match the severity of the collision impact detected.

Side airbags are standard on the front seats and are available as an option for the second row seats. Curtain shield SRS airbags, which protect up to six people from head and shoulder injuries, are available for both five-seat and seven-seat configurations.

Both front seats feature Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) technology which reduces the impact to the neck area in the event of a rear collision. This is achieved through an active headrest structure that senses movement in the lower back rest and pushes the headrest upwards by 30mm and forward by 25 mm to reduce neck movement and associated injury.

Outer second row seats are fitted with ISO-fix child seat fittings as standard, to make the use of child restraint seats simple. The top tether mounts has been specially positioned to prevent them from interfering with passengers in the third row of seats under higher loads.

While the chassis structure has been designed to absorb impact energy in the event of a collision, particular attention has been focused on reducing possible injury to pedestrians on impact. The structure of the bonnet has been specially designed to ensure it is rigid but capable of absorbing impact energy, while the leading edge has an impact absorbing bead to ensure it is effective during frontal collisions with smaller pedestrians, such as children. There are also impactabsorbing brackets between the side panels and the wing, and there is an open area between the rear of the bonnet and the windscreen, allowing the bonnet to move back in the event of a collision.

Premium comfort and equipment

- All-new air conditioning system
- Nine-speaker audio by Pioneer
- Full navigation system available

Land Cruiser owners are successful people with a taste for the good things in life – so they choose a car that is modern, stylish and, above all, well equipped and comfortable for their needs. All these qualities are clear in the new Land Cruiser V8.

A powerful road presence, refined interior trim and high levels of quality equipment clearly mark out the all-new Land Cruiser V8 as a premium SUV with the perfect blend of go-anywhere capability, comfort and sophistication.

The Land Cruiser V8 is more spacious than the current model, with excellent leg and head room for all passengers. The choice of five-seat or seven-seat configurations gives buyers the chance to select the Land Cruiser that best suits their needs, while the versatile interior, with seats that slide, tumble and tip, enables flexible use of interior space.

The interior trim features precision fit and finish, plus a strong sense of functionality and quality. Detailed wood ornamentation adds an extra dimension of style and adds to the Land Cruiser’s high-quality image. Advanced technology is reflected in the hi-tech Optitron meters that dominate the instrument panel. These provide clear indications of the speed, engine revs, gearshift position, odometer and trip meter, plus vehicle information such as cruising range and fuel efficiency. The instrument display can also provide warnings and advice.

The new Land Cruiser V8 will be launched across Europe in two grades: standard and luxury. This ensures buyers can take full advantage of the premium features or add their own luxury items, such as full leather seats and four-wheel AHC & AVS suspension.

Typical features standard on Land Cruiser V8 include a leather steering wheel with audio and telephone controls, and Toyota’s Smart Entry and Push-Button Start system. These offer convenience, comfort and added safety to driver and passengers.

The controls on the steering wheel for frequently used audio and telephone functions include volume and station seek; an audio mode button; a telephone answer button and a control for the voice recognition interface. The multi-information display can also be operated and the vehicle status checked by using a further button on the steering wheel.

The Smart Entry and Push-Button Start system is activated by an electronic key that can be kept in a pocket or handbag. This leaves the driver with a hand free to carry luggage, for instance, while the lack of a traditional ignition lock on the steering column reduces the risk of injury in the event of a collision.

Also available as standard equipment on all grades of Land Cruiser V8 are premium features for extra comfort.

All-new air conditioning

- Maximum comfort for all passengers
- Four-zone, independent temperature control
- Fresh air to all seats

Operating in some of the most inhospitable regions of the world means that Land Cruiser has to have a premium quality air-conditioning system to ensure comfort for the driver and passengers in all conditions. The air-conditioning system in the Land Cruiser V8 has been significantly enhanced to achieve this objective.

The digital, fully automatic system provides four-zone, independent temperature control to ensure comfortable conditions for all passengers. Rear-cabin air conditioning is controlled from an independent, dual-zone control panel fitted to the rear face of the centre console – but it can also be controlled from the main air conditioning control panel.

In the front of the Land Cruiser’s cabin, 14 different vents and ducts are provided with a temperature-maintained air flow, controlled either manually or fully automatically. Rear-seat passengers are equally comfortable, with a further 14 ventilation ducts in the ceiling, the door pillars and at floor level. These ducts apply to both the second and third rows, delivering independent right and left temperature control, even for the rearmost seats.

Diesel-powered models are equipped with a Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater and viscous heater, which boost the heating effect on cold start. A pollen filter and pollen removal mode are available to ensure interior air quality and reduce pollutants entering the passenger cabin.

Extra comfort features

- Nine-speaker audio system
- Optional navigation system and rear-view camera

The Land Cruiser V8 is equipped as standard with a hi-fi-quality Pioneer nine-speaker audio system with a six-CD changer. A digital tuner is used to ensure optimal radio reception.

The system supports the playback of MP3 and WMA files from CD, and offers high quality sound to passengers in all seats from speakers in the four doors and the centre of the instrument panel, plus side squawker and tweeter speakers to the right and left at the front of the passenger compartment.

Additional equipment that adds to owners’ comfort and convenience includes an auto-dimming rear view mirror, automatic headlamps and rain-sensing windscreen wipers.

Standard grade examples of the Land Cruiser V8 range are finished with 18-inch alloy wheels.

Extra luxury grade

- Full leather interior
- Active suspension and height control

A luxury-grade version of Land Cruiser V8 includes, as standard equipment, features that reflect the premium positioning of the car. Full leather trim is added to all seats, while the driver and front passenger chairs gain electric adjustment and heating. The driver’s seat has memory settings for three different positions.

The luxury grade is finished with 20-inch alloy wheels and, for maximum comfort and function, four-wheel Active Height Control and Adaptive Variable Suspension is standard equipment.

Further optional features

- Full map navigation
- Rear parking camera
- Electric moon roof

An optional full map navigation system is available, with a wider eight-inch 32,000-colour display. The system covers 24 countries in Europe (Austria, Andorra, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Vatican City, Poland and Russia) and provides voice guidance in 10 European languages (English, German, French, Italian, Dutch, Spanish, Swedish, Danish, Norwegian and Portuguese). The system has Bluetooth® connectivity to connect a mobile phone.

Vehicles equipped with the navigation system can also benefit from an optional parking camera which sends a clear picture from the vehicle’s rear to the monitor screen, complete with guide lines for extra convenience and safety.

A moon roof with power tilt and slide function, jam protection and one touch operation is also available.

More on the Toyota Land Cruiser V8 in Detail

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Source: Toyota