The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Series stands as one of the toughest and most enduring utility vehicles available, engineered for uncompromising durability and legendary off-road ability. While most modern pickups chase refinement and technology, the Land Cruiser 79 remains true to its roots with an old-school ladder-frame chassis, solid axles, and mechanical simplicity. Favoured globally by farmers, miners, military operators, and long-distance overlanders, it continues to thrive in conditions where reliability matters most. In New Zealand, it appeals to buyers seeking a no-nonsense workhorse capable of handling remote environments where toughness outweighs luxury.

Positioned against rugged rivals like the Nissan Patrol Pickup, Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster, and Mahindra Pik Up, the Land Cruiser 79 Series stands apart for its bulletproof reputation, unrivalled parts availability, and long-term dependability. The 2024 update also brings more variety, with modern powertrains and safety improvements, while keeping the 79’s essential character intact.

If interested in buying the Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Series, we have prepared a separate Buyer’s Guide with details on what to look out for when buying a used one and the common pitfalls to avoid. Click here to purchase the Buyer’s Guide.

Engine Options
The 2024 Land Cruiser 79 Series is offered with three main engines internationally, though availability varies by market imports into New Zealand:

• 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel (GD-6) – New addition with a six-speed automatic, offering strong torque, better efficiency, and modern drivability.

• 4.5-litre V8 turbo-diesel – Still available in some markets with a five-speed manual, known for toughness and pulling power, though slowly being phased out.

• 4.2-litre naturally aspirated inline-six diesel (1HZ) – A simple, durable engine, less powerful but highly reliable, common in markets like South Africa.

• 4.0-litre V6 petrol – Available in select regions, delivers smooth power and is less sensitive to fuel quality than the diesels.

Transmission Options

• 5-Speed Manual – Standard with V8 models, proven and rugged.

• 6-Speed Manual – Found in select high-spec variants for improved refinement.

• 6-Speed Automatic – Paired with the newer 2.8L turbo diesel, offering easier drivability in urban and highway settings.

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Series Grades

• Base / Workmate / DX – Barebones, vinyl floors, manual windows, no-frills durability.

• GX – Adds basic comfort such as A/C, improved seats, and optional accessories.

• GXL – Popular high-spec pickup trim, offering power windows, infotainment screen, diff locks, ABS, and airbags.

• Special Editions (Namib, 70th Anniversary) – Market-specific collector trims with cosmetic upgrades and premium touches.

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Series Interior
The interior of the 2024 Land Cruiser 79 remains purpose-built, with durability taking precedence over luxury. The dashboard design is upright and straightforward, with large physical controls that are easy to operate even with gloves on. Materials are robust — hard plastics, vinyl flooring, and tough fabrics dominate in lower trims, while higher grades like the GXL introduce improved cloth upholstery, power accessories, and basic infotainment systems with Bluetooth and USB connectivity.

Front seating provides solid support for long workdays, though cushioning is firmer than lifestyle pickups. Double-cab variants extend practicality with a rear bench that accommodates passengers adequately, though space is best for shorter trips compared to modern dual-cab utes. Storage options are functional, with deep door bins and a glovebox for essentials, while aftermarket fit-outs often add center consoles, fridge slides, and utility drawers for overlanding.

Premium features such as air conditioning, ABS, and airbags are now standard on most trims, while GXL models add an infotainment touchscreen with smartphone compatibility. Still, the cabin’s essence is durability — easy to clean, resistant to wear, and ready for rugged use.

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Series Exterior
The 79’s exterior design is iconic and immediately recognizable. Its boxy, upright stance reflects its utilitarian DNA, prioritizing function over flair. At the front, a simple yet commanding grille is flanked by round or rectangular halogen or LED headlights depending on the trim, while the raised bonnet and squared fenders emphasize toughness. Black bumpers and steel wheels dominate in Workmate and GX grades, while GXL models add chrome highlights, alloy wheels, fog lights, and a snorkel for enhanced off-road readiness.

The side profile is tall and narrow, designed for optimal clearance in tight bush tracks and rugged trails. High ground clearance and short overhangs give it excellent approach and departure angles, while flared arches accommodate heavy-duty off-road tyres.

At the rear, the pickup tray offers a functional load area that can be tailored to work or adventure setups, from steel trays and canopies to touring rigs with roof tents and storage systems. Troop Carrier (wagon) versions add extra practicality for people transport, often used by NGOs and overlanders. The overall look is unapologetically tough, with minimal cosmetic frills — a design language that has barely changed in decades, and for good reason.

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Cargo & Towing Capacity

• Payload: Around 1,000–1,200 kg depending on body style.

• Towing: Rated up to 3,500 kg braked towing capacity, making it one of the strongest heavy-duty utes available.
  The tray is highly configurable, often customized for agricultural, industrial, or touring use.

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Fuel Consumption

• 4.5L V8 Diesel: ~10–12 L/100 km (combined).

• 2.8L Turbo Diesel: ~8–9 L/100 km (combined, more efficient).
  Fuel use is higher than modern lifestyle utes, but acceptable for its size and purpose.

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Fuel Tank Capacity

• Standard: ~130 litres (dual tanks available in some models).
  This large capacity provides excellent range for remote travel.

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Ground Clearance

• Approx. 235 mm, ensuring excellent approach and departure angles for serious off-roading.

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Performance
The 79 Series is built for torque, load carrying, and off-road toughness. On-road performance is steady but unremarkable compared to modern pickups — acceleration is modest, and handling is truck-like. Off-road, however, it excels: with solid axles, low-range gearing, factory diff locks, and massive torque, the 79 conquers steep climbs, rocky trails, and deep mud with ease. It remains one of the most capable 4x4s available.

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Series Reliability
Reliability is the 79’s greatest strength. With regular servicing, the V8 and 1HZ engines are known to last well beyond 500,000 km. The newer 2.8L engine is efficient but requires higher-quality fuel and attentive maintenance. Toyota’s global parts network ensures long-term support, making it a safe choice for New Zealand buyers who demand dependability.

If interested in buying the Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Series, we have prepared a separate Buyer’s Guide with details on what to look out for when buying a used one and the common pitfalls to avoid. Click here to purchase the Buyer’s Guide.

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Series Maintenance Schedule
Every 10,000 km: Oil and filter change, general inspections.
Every 20,000–40,000 km: Fuel filters, cooling system checks, drivetrain servicing.
Injector servicing recommended around 150,000 km for V8 models.
Rust-proofing is advised for vehicles used in coastal or agricultural areas.

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Series Competitors

• Nissan Patrol Pickup
• Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster
• Mahindra Pik Up S11 4×4
• Toyota Hilux (lighter-duty alternative)

If you are looking to purchase the Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Series, email us directly via info@newzealandmotors.com, and we will get back to you immediately.