Blacked-out custom Toyota Land Cruiser 70 is ready for action

Last year, Toyota wowed everyone when they launched the refreshed Land Cruiser 70. Not only did it get a retro-inspired look for the 2024 model year, but the SUV is now available with the 2.8-liter 1GD-FTV turbo-diesel derived from the Fortuner/Hilux along with a new 6-speed automatic gearbox.

A few months after it made its global reveal, Toyota then revealed the 3-door version of the Land Cruiser 70 in UAE. Unlike other markets that get the new turbo-diesel engine, the UAE gets the tried-and-tested 4.0-liter 1GR-FE gasoline V6. Despite the difference in body styles and engine specs, both versions of the Land Cruiser 70 get 4WD as standard.

Fast forward to January 2024, the Land Cruiser 70 will be making its presence felt at the annual Tokyo Auto Salon. But don't expect the SUV to be in stock form. That's because Toyota Auto Body, a manufacturing subsidiary of the brand, has souped up the Land Cruiser 70 with several upgrades.

Beginning with the most obvious first, the Land Cruiser 70 is painted matte black which gives it a more sinister look. It's also fitted with a wide array of off-road accessories which include a snorkel that will allow it to ford through deep waters with ease. It also gets a new front bumper that's ready to accept a power winch, a roof rack that can carry additional cargo, new off-road tires with chrome wheels, and chrome side mirrors.

No powertrain upgrades were mentioned so the customized 4x4 still likely comes with the 2.8-liter turbo-diesel engine that cranks out 204 PS with 500 Nm of torque. Providing peace of mind, on the other hand, is Toyota Safety Sense which is now available on the refreshed Land Cruiser 70.

Those who are planning to see the matte black Land Cruiser 70 by Toyota Auto Body can visit the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon which will take place from January 12 to January 14 at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan.