Rock-crushing Toyota GR LandCruiser 300 Series in frame
All-new LandCruiser range set to expand with various muscled-up models under considerationAn extreme GR-branded sports version of the forthcoming Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series is coming closer to fruition.
Toyota has made it clear that a GR HiLux ute is also on the table, with its Australian subsidiary among several countries to trademark the name last year.
But the all-new Toyota LandCruiser – now expected in Australia in 2021 after COVID-related restrictions delayed its launch – is similarly shaping up to receive full-fat GR (Gazoo Racing) treatment as the car-maker leverages the sought-after sub-brand across a broad range of model lines.
“There’s no reason LC [LandCruiser] or HiLux couldn’t have GR models,” a Toyota Australia spokesperson told carsales. “And we’ve trademarked [GR HiLux].”
As reported, a Toyota GR Fortuner SUV is among a variety of GR models also in the mix, along with a GR Corolla that will join confirmed models such as the Supra and GR Yaris.
“We are making a special effort on pure GR models,” the spokesperson said, adding that the company is “not excluding GR sub-branding from any core model”.
If a desert-racing GR LandCruiser is given the green light it would be expected to receive a complete workover, with meaningful upgrades to the powertrain, chassis, exterior and cabin.
The standard LC300 will feature a new turbo-diesel V6 engine displacing between 3.3 and 3.5 litres and matching, if not eclipsing, the current 4.5-litre twin-turbo diesel V8’s vital statistics of 200kW and 650Nm.
It will also use less fuel and potentially have a greater cruising range if the dual fuel tank set-up is maintained, which currently affords the big rig a 138-litre capacity.
In creating a GR ’Cruiser, Toyota might also transplant the Lexus-developed 4.0-litre twin-turbo petrol V8 that is expected to make its way into the next Lexus LX flagship SUV.
Toyota Australia has also confirmed it’s investigating home-grown upgrades for the LandCruiser 300 Series via its conversion centre in Melbourne, which is where parts for the HiLux Rugged X are developed and engineered.
A potential LandCruiser Rugged X would compete against the upcoming Nissan Patrol Warrior, which has been delayed due to COVID-19 lockdown
Expect a suspension overhaul to improve wheel articulation and ground clearance, as well as bash plates and body armour, snorkels, ancillary lighting systems, and more.
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