September 1998 Volume 79  Number 9 "serving the protectors"
Motoring - KING Cruiser
By Jim Barnett

The performance of Toyota’s new LandCruiser 100 Series through the rugged Flinders Ranges illustrates just why its maker calls it King.

This fourth-generation LandCruiser is virtually new from the ground up. The body is stronger, longer (by 70mm), wider (by 10mm), taller and more aerodynamic than the previous 80 Series.

Toyota claims improvements in many areas, including:

• Safety.
• Comfort.
• Interior space.
• Standard features.
• NVH (noise, vibration and harshness levels).
• Engine performance.

Four different spec levels (STD, RV, GXL and GXV) with three engines and two transmissions available.

The “hose-out” STD model features:

• Manual transmission.
• Manual locking hubs.
• Part-time four-wheel-drive system.
• Vinyl seats.
• Floor mats.
• Seating for six.
• RV and GXL models feature:
• Full-time four-wheel-drive.
• Seating for eight.
• More luxurious interiors.
• Additional safety features.
• Automatic or manual transmission.

The GXV is:

• Available with automatic transmission only.
• The first LandCruiser to feature fully independent front suspension.
• Equipped with rack and pinion steering and a powerful V8 petrol engine.

Although the highly regarded six-cylinder turbo diesel engine doesn’t exist in the new range, three powerful engines are available:

• A new 4.7-litre, quad-cam, multi-valve V8 petrol engine, which delivers 170kW @ 4,800rpm and 410Nm torque @ 3,400rpm.
• A 4.5-litre, straight six petrol engine which delivers 165kW of power and 387Nm of torque.
• A 4.2-litre, naturally-aspirated, straight six diesel which delivers 96kW and 285Nm.

The V8 is standard in the GXV. All other models feature either of the other engines.

Improvements to both six-cylinder engines provide more power or torque, with less emission and no sacrifice of fuel economy.

All models feature:

• Power steering.
• Four-wheel disc brakes.
• Limited-slip rear differentials.
• Long-travel front and rear coil springs.
• Stainless steel exhaust systems.
• Dual fuel tanks (total capacity 145 litres, GXV 141 litres).

Front and rear differential locks are available across the range, except GXV on which only a rear diff lock is available.

Safety is enhanced with dual airbags available across the entire range, while ABS brakes are optional on RV and standard on GXL and GXV.

A stronger, more rigid body made of high-strength steel, and a stronger ladder chassis (nine cross members) have the new model passing 40 per cent offset, side intrusion, roll-over strength and roof crush tests.

With 110mm more space between the doors, the cabin is spacious and the new dash layout is functional and attractive. Cabin space abounds and a huge console bin is situated between the front seats. Drink holders, storage bins and grab handles are found at every seat. The dashboard and cargo area feature handy 120-watt power sockets.

For serious “off-roaders”, Toyota has, on six-cylinder models, included:

• Dual-battery compartments.
• 200kg integrated roof rack mounting points.
• Increased approach and departure angles.
• Increased wading depth.

Even though it lacks trimmings, the STD diesel is comfortable and pleasant to drive. It cruises well on the highway, is quiet inside and has excellent low-range abilities. Tested at Skytrek, a 75km, self-drive trip on Willow Springs station to the top of Mount Caernarvon, economy averaged 12.7 litres/100km.

The RV petrol in manual form is very impressive. The engine is responsive and the gearbox superb. Its dash-mounted centre-diff lock button allows the driver to stay in total control on all surfaces. Economy averaged 16 litres/100km.

Surprisingly, at around 2.4 tonnes, the new “Cruiser” is car-like to drive. The driving position is excellent and visibility is good. A combination of effortless power, good braking and well sorted out suspension inspires driver confidence on all surfaces. Dust sealing and fit and finish are first class, with no hint of dust entering the cabin.

LandCruiser is priced at:

• $47,460 STD.
• $49,950 RV.
• $53,870 GXL (petrol/manual versions).
• $89,900 GXV V8.
• Prices are increased by:
• $2,569 for air conditioning.
• $2,600 for automatic transmission.
• $2,200 for diesel engine.

Towing capacity is 3,500kg with brakes.

Test vehicles by Toyota Australia, Dudley Park, SA.

SKYTREK

Skytrek takes around six hours to complete and offers excellent 360-degree views at the summit. It boasts diverse and spectacular terrain, abundant wildlife and is an invigorating adventure for four-wheel-drive enthusiasts. For information call Brendan and Carmel Reynolds on (08) 8648 0016.