Toyota Land Cruiser Namib, an icon that never dies

This is the Toyota Land Cruiser Namib, a pick-up based on the incombustible 70 Series. While Mercedes-Benz has renewed its G-Class, Jeep its iconic Wrangler, Suzuki the little Jimny and Land Rover the Defender, Toyota seems not yet ready to take the plunge. And I know that more than one would not mind getting one.

The Toyota Land Cruiser Namib is a truck-made version (pick-up) particularly resistant of the homonymous model 79 S-Cab. That translates into an SUV that has basically been in production since the early 1980s in one way or another. It is powered by a 4.5-liter V8 turbodiesel block capable of generating 208 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque between 1,200 and 3,200 RPM. However, the non-Namib versions can be ordered with a gasoline V8. There anti-pollution regulations are something else.

The 4.5D will not be the most efficient engine, as it promises a maximum speed of 140 km / h and an approved fuel consumption of 11.3 l / 100 km, and emits 300 g / km of CO₂. I would have a hard time driving through Central Madrid. The power of the propeller reaches all four wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. The 16-inch wheels are wrapped in 325/75 Cooper Discoverer S / T Maxx 32 ”tires with white-painted lettering.

The Toyota Land Cruisier Series 70 is a veteran off-road workhorse still in service in much of the world, except in Europe and North America

Despite its many years in the market, the Toyota Land Cruiser Namib has a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation and bluetooth function, electric windows, height-adjustable telescopic steering column, remote central locking, power socket front current, ABS and two front airbags. It is also offered with a three-year warranty or 100,000 kilometers, whichever comes first.

Inspired by the Namib Desert, one of the largest and oldest in the world, this “new” model integrates some exterior improvements that include a new mesh design for the company's front grille, a high-quality steel front bumper resistance, trailer hitch, headlamp protector and numerous Namib badges. The available colors are Sand beige and Ivory White.

Inside, the seats have been wrapped in tailored gray fabric, with the Namib logo embroidered, and the edges feature anti-wear plates that prevent degradation over time. The Toyota Land Cruiser Namib also has a refrigerated glove compartment, a specific roof with LED lights, a hook for the microphone cable, and multiple storage spaces.

To be completely honest, the vehicle's full name is “Land Cruiser 79 4.5D V8 D / C Namib”, and the Japanese firm asks for it 893,600 South African rands, equivalent to about 55,000 euros at the current exchange rate. It is not exactly a bargain, considering that the five-door Land Cruiser 2018 is sold in our country from 40,500 euros, much more modern and technological. If you want one, you will have to ask for import, and good luck when you want to approve it.

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