2024 Landcruiser 2.8l Auto TOWING TEST vs the V8 70 series

Summary

Two experienced drivers compare towing heavy caravans with a 4 cylinder turbo diesel Toyota 70 series Landcruiser and a V8 turbo diesel 79 series. Despite expecting the V8 to outperform, they are shocked when the 4 cylinder has no trouble maintaining speed up a steep hill while the V8 struggles. Further testing shows the 4 cylinder uses much less fuel while towing just as much weight. They conclude the 4 cylinder 70 series may be the best towing vehicle in Australia given its fuel efficiency, power and refinements.

Takeaways

• 😲 The 2.8L turbo diesel auto performed much better at towing than the tuned V8 79 series, especially going uphill
• 🚗 The 2.8L used less fuel than the V8 while towing a heavy caravan
• ⛽ The 2.8L got 10.7L/100km non-towing and 22.8L/100km towing 3 tonnes. The V8 got 16.7L/100km non-towing and 22.8L/100km towing
• 🔧 The V8 needed brake and handling upgrades to improve towing ability
• 😡 The drivers were shocked and disappointed at how much better the 2.8L towed compared to the tuned V8
• 🚚 The 2.8L auto diesel felt easier to drive overall compared to the manual V8 when towing
• ↕️ The 2.8L lost power around 80km/hr in tow mode compared to below and above that speed
• 🔙 The auto hubs and torque converter helped the 2.8L reverse better with a heavy caravan
• 👍 The 2.8L performed well for towing in Australia and would be a top choice
• 🤯 The test completely changed the perception of the 2.8L as a good tow vehicle compared to the mighty V8

Q & A

What vehicles are being compared for towing capability in the video?

A 2013 Toyota Landcruiser 79 Series V8 and a 2022 Toyota Landcruiser 76 Series 2.8L 4-cylinder are being compared.

What was the overall conclusion about the towing capability of the 76 Series vs the 79 Series?

The 76 Series with the new 2.8L engine performed better at towing up a steep hill while maintaining speed, and got better fuel economy compared to the 79 Series V8.

How much weight were the vehicles towing during the test?

Around 2.9 tonnes with the caravan, water and gas.

What were the fuel economy figures for the 79 Series V8 while towing?

22.8 liters per 100 km while towing 2.9 tonnes.

How did the drivers swap vehicles during the test?

They swapped at the halfway point of the 80km test route, so each could test both vehicles while towing.

What was the issue noticed with the 76 Series in power mode at 80kph?

It seemed to get stuck in too high of a gear at 80kph in power mode, hurting fuel economy.

How did the auto transmission of the 76 Series affect reversing with a trailer?

Having automatic locking hubs with no manual option made reversing more difficult than the 79 Series.

What accessories did the 79 Series have that added extra weight?

It had larger tires, bigger rolling diameter, and around 200-300kg of extra accessories bolted on.

What improvements did the 76 Series have for braking over the 79 Series?

It had an upgraded brake booster which improved brake feel and performance.

What appeal does the new 76 Series have for the narrator?

The narrator states he has never had interest in the 70 Series before, but is very impressed by the new 2.8L model.