Toyota Australia has expanded the LandCruiser 70 Series lineup adding a new five-speed manual gearbox option for the 2.8 four-cylinder, while dropping the much-loved V8. The manual transmission is now available across double cab-chassis, troop carrier, and GXL wagon variants.
This addition follows the discontinuation of the 4.5-litre turbo-diesel V8 manual earlier this year, and follows the introduction of six-speed automatic and 2.8-litre engine introduced in late 2023. Designed specifically for the LandCruiser 70 Series, the new manual gearbox is designed to enhance performance in tough working environments.
Toyota’s 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine produces 150kW of power between 3200-3400rpm, and 450Nm of torque over a broad range of 2400-3000rpm. That’s 50Nm down on the automatic model. The gearbox incorporates shorter ratios for the lower gears, boosting low-end performance, while the longer fifth gear improves highway fuel economy and reduces cabin noise during cruising.
Additional upgrades to the manual configuration include a strengthened flywheel compatible with a 12-inch clutch for better slip resistance, and a triple-synchronisation mechanism in first gear to improve shifting smoothness. A rear-end dust seal further enhances durability by protecting the release bearing from debris.
It comes in as one of only a handful of manual options still around, especially in dual-cab and wagon form. Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia’s vice president of sales and marketing, said:
“When we discontinued the V8 LandCruiser 70 Series earlier this year, we know there were some customers lamenting the absence of a manual gearbox in the range, so we wanted to ensure we were able to offer all our customers a range of powertrain options and this new manual fits the bill perfectly.”
The manual variants maintain the same equipment levels, towing capacity, and GCM as their automatic counterparts, with the only changes being the removal of the front console box and downhill assist control due to the gear shifter’s position.
Interested punters can place an order now, with prices starting from the following (excluding on-road costs):