Do you feel like time-travelling to the mid-1980s? Then hop in the magnificent 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 70 LX Wagon where manual radio aerials are rad and the power steering is gnarly as!

Priced from $90,590, the wagon joins the Land Cruiser 70 ute line-up. It has a 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine producing 150kW of power and 500Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

It’s 4875mm long, 1870mm wide, and 1940mm high with a towing capacity of 3500kg.

First introduced in 1984, the Land Cruiser 70 (LC 70) has a long and storied history. It was designed as a practical vehicle capable of handling the harshest terrains, and over the decades, it has earned a reputation for its durability and dependability. 

Unlike many modern SUVs that have transitioned towards luxury and urban comfort, the LC 70 has remained true to its roots as a workhorse. Its continued production shows its ongoing popularity among those who need a reliable and robust vehicle for challenging environments such as the Outback of Australia, Africa and the Middle East.

And let’s not forget its importance for international aid organisations such as the United Nations or Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders). Not only can it tackle tough terrain but it’s low maintenance and easy to repair when your local Toyota dealership is thousands of kms away.

The 2024 Land Cruiser 70 Wagon retains the classic boxy silhouette that has become synonymous with rugged off-road vehicles. Its no-nonsense design features a high ground clearance, short overhangs, and a sturdy ladder-frame chassis. The front end is characterised by a simple yet robust grille flanked by round headlights, while the snorkel exhaust system adds to the appeal.

The headlights added a retro aesthetic that I loved and had pedestrians stopping to stare as I drove around central Auckland.

Inside, the Land Cruiser 70 Wagon five-seater emphasises functionality over luxury. The cabin is designed to withstand rough use, with durable materials and a straightforward layout. While it may lack the high-tech amenities found in more modern SUVs, it offers the essentials needed for long expeditions. 

I joked that the seats were taken from the spare parts bin in the far reaches of a Toyota Motor Japan’s warehouse. The nylon covering screams the 1980s and while there was plenty of legroom for driver and front passenger, the rear passengers have limited space. If you’re over 1.8ms tall, you may find the back seat cramped. But buckle up buttercup, you’re in for a one heck of ride.

So why did Toyota continue production of the Land Cruiser 70 Wagon? It is not just a vehicle; it is a tool for many industries, including mining, agriculture, and emergency services.

Plus it has a loyal following for many off-road enthusiasts and offers durability and reliability giving it a long lifespan and low maintenance requirements.

It also has remained largely unchanged, which is part of its appeal. Its simplicity and robustness are key selling points, attracting those who prefer a no-frills, dependable vehicle.

Although the LC 70 Wagon focuses on durability, it does include some ‘modern’ conveniences. Features such as air conditioning, a basic infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and power windows enhance the driving experience. Safety features include ABS brakes, airbags, and stability control, ensuring a degree of modern safety standards.

But that’s about it. I wasn’t joking when I said you had to pull up the aerial to listen to the radio (and yes, you get AM and FM). I did joke though when I was organising to pick up the LC70 if I needed to bring some cassettes to listen to!

I loved the no-nonsense fundamentals of the car. Rear parking sensors? Nope, I was lucky to get a rear camera. But there was lane departure warning, autonomous emergency braking, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and intersection turn assist. 

The Toyota Land Cruiser 70 is renowned for its rugged, old-school charm, especially when it comes to off-road performance. On the road, the experience is more utilitarian than luxurious. It’s a heavy, boxy vehicle with a firm suspension, meaning you can expect a bumpy and less refined ride compared to modern SUVs.

Its steering is slow and lacks precision, and due to the high centre of gravity, cornering can feel a bit top-heavy. That said, its durability and straightforward nature shine through, making it a solid workhorse for long drives in tough environments.

Off-road, the Land Cruiser 70 comes alive. Its ladder-frame chassis, solid axles, and robust four-wheel-drive system are perfectly suited for tackling rough terrain. The high ground clearance, locking differentials, and low-range gearbox make it capable of conquering mud, sand, and rocky trails with ease.

The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Wagon faces competition from several vehicles that also prioritise off-road capability and durability, from the likes of the Land Rover Defender 110, Jeep Wrangler and the Nissan Patrol.

I loved the simplicity of the Land Cruiser 70, and if I owned a farm, I’d have one as it’s a no-nonsense workhorse – that could help tow a horse float.

Sure, it can get your heart rate up when trundling along Auckland’s Southern Motorway at 100km/h in the rain as it’s not a race car with ceramic brakes, but I smiled through the seven-day test drive from the sheer personality of the vehicle.

Pros:

1. Legendary Off-Road Capability: The Land Cruiser 70 is built for extreme off-road conditions with features like solid axles, high ground clearance, and locking differentials. Its 4WD system is highly effective for handling rough terrain, making it a go-to vehicle in remote or challenging areas.

2. Durability and Reliability: One of its standout qualities is its long-lasting nature. It’s a workhorse that can handle harsh climates, rough terrains, and demanding tasks without significant mechanical issues. This makes it especially popular in remote areas where reliability is critical.

3. Simple, Proven Engineering: The vehicle's design is based on decades of development, using straightforward and proven mechanical systems. The simplicity makes it easier to repair in the field, with fewer electronics or complex systems that might malfunction in rugged environments.

Cons:

1. Outdated Interior and Technology: The Land Cruiser 70’s interior design feels outdated, with basic amenities and limited modern technology. 

2. Stiff Ride and Handling: While it's a beast off-road, the on-road comfort isn’t ideal.

3. Fuel Efficiency: Its heavy-duty build and powerful engine consume a significant amount of fuel, which can be a drawback for those using it over long distances or in areas with limited access to fuel.