THE Toyota Land Cruiser’s ‘unstoppable’ muscle is being wielded in a wider market with the launch of the UK’s first commercial vehicle versions of the SUV.
The new models come with all the built-in quality, durability and reliability that have earned Land Cruiser a worldwide reputation for go-anywhere performance. With a robust, body-on-frame construction, proven all-wheel drive capability and a highly capable 2.8-litre D-4D engine, the Land Cruiser Utility Commercial has the perfect pedigree to be a formidable workhorse.
Short and long-wheelbase versions are available with three and five doors respectively, sharing the same smart body styling as the recently launched new Land Cruiser.
Overall length is 4,395mm for the SWB and 4,840 for the LWB; both vehicles are 1,885mm wide, with the three-door measuring 1,830mm high and the five-door 1,845mm. Inside, the rear seats have been removed to create a spacious load area, extending to 1,574 litres in the SWB and 2,216 litres in the LWB; respective payloads are up to 593 and 756kg respectively (according to vehicle kerb weight).
Both vehicles can tow braked trailers with loads of up to three tonnes.
The load space is designed to be practical and hard-wearing with an edge-to-edge non-slip flat floor tray. The division between the front cabin and rear cargo area is a full height metal bulkhead with a strong mesh top section fitted with a hatch for easy access. Loading is via the wide-opening side-hinged tailgate, or (on five-door models) through either of the rear side doors. The rear windows are blanked out with panels that match the Land Cruiser’s body colour.
The no-nonsense character of the Land Cruiser Utility Commercial is reflected in its 17-inch steel wheels, but where cabin comfort, convenience and safety are concerned, the provisions are generous.
The two front seats have cloth upholstery and adjustable head restraints. Standard features include air conditioning, cruise control and six-speaker audio system with CD player, Bluetooth and (on the LWB model) Aux-in and USB connection. Dusk-sensing headlights, smart entry, front fog lights and roof rails are also included in the specification.
Front, side and driver’s knee airbags are fitted and the vehicle is equipped with Multi-terrain ABS, Active Traction Control, Vehicle Stability Control, Trailer Sway Control and a tyre pressure warning system.
The new models are on sale now, with commercial vehicle on-the-road prices of £27,546 for the SWB model and £28,509 for the LWB. Deliveries to customers will commence in July.
