Toyota has highlighted the short-wheelbase (SWB) version of its iconic Land Cruiser 70 Series in a new video, featuring a convertible variant with a windshield that folds flat over the hood.
The feature is designed for ranchers, allowing farmhands to throw lassos directly from the vehicle while moving, according to Land Cruiser Chief Engineer Masaya Uchiyama.
Three SWB Variants Showcased
The video, hosted by Toyota Racing driver Takamoto Miura and Uchiyama, presents three examples of the 70 Series SWB.
The first is a black narrow-body hardtop aimed at commercial use, riding on steel wheels with manual windows and basic vinyl trim.
The second is a wide-body hardtop in sand-toned paint, equipped with fender extensions, power windows, and a suede/leather interior with an infotainment screen.
The highlight is a soft-top convertible with a fold-down windshield.
It includes a roll-over protection structure and side bench seats in the rear, accommodating up to six or seven passengers.
Compact Dimensions and Off-Road DNA
The SWB model sits on a 2,310 mm (90.9 in) wheelbase, which is 120 mm shorter than Toyota's smallest European car, the Aygo X, and only 60 mm longer than the Suzuki Jimny's wheelbase.
Overall length is 4,235 mm (166.7 inches).
Like other 70 Series models, the SWB uses a heavy-duty ladder-frame chassis with rigid live axles front and rear, coil springs up front, and leaf springs at the rear.
Depending on the market, power comes from either a naturally aspirated 4.2-liter six-cylinder diesel (129 hp) with a five-speed manual, or a 4.0-liter V6 gasoline engine (228 hp) with a six-speed automatic.
All versions feature a 4WD system.
Production and Pricing
Uchiyama revealed that about 90% of SWB production is exported to the Middle East, with the remaining 10% going to parts of South America and Asia.
There are no immediate plans to sell the SWB in Japan, though Uchiyama expressed hope for a domestic release in the future.
In Dubai, the three-door Hard Top SWB starts at 177,900 Dirham ($48,400), which is 10,000 Dirham ($2,700) less than the five-door version.
Some Middle Eastern markets only offer the five-door SUV and pickup variants of the 70 Series.
