In Australia, the Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series (collectively known as the "LC70") is the undisputed king of the outback, mining sectors, farms, and heavy-duty remote touring.
The "VDJ" designation specifically means these models are powered by the legendary 4.5L V8 Single-Turbo Diesel engine (1VD-FTV). Toyota officially discontinued production of this V8 engine globally in late 2024 (transitioning to the 2.8L 4-cylinder 1GD engine). Because of this, V8 manual-transmission models now command extreme demand and massive resale value on the Australian used and existing dealer market.
Here is the comprehensive breakdown of the specific trim levels (models) available in Australia for the VDJ76, VDJ78, and VDJ79 chassis configurations.
1. VDJ76 — 5-Door Wagon (SUV)
The VDJ76 is a traditional 5-door station wagon with 5 seats and a horizontal "clamshell" or vertical twin-door rear setup. It is heavily favored by families and tourers who want a tough, closed-cabin 4WD.
- Workmate: The entry-level, bare-bones fleet spec. It comes with 16-inch black steel wheels, black plastic front and rear bumpers, vinyl seating, and vinyl floors that can be easily washed out.
- GXL: The mainstream choice for everyday buyers and tourers. It adds 16-inch alloy wheels, body-colored over-fender flares, front fog lamps, premium cloth seating, carpeted floors, power windows, and central locking. Crucially, it comes standard with front and rear factory differential locks (diff locks).
- 70th Anniversary Edition (2021 Limited Run): A highly collectible version based on the GXL. It features a retro-style "TOYOTA" black front grille, black headlight bezels, premium faux-leather seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear stick, faux-wood interior trim, and exclusive 70th-anniversary exterior badging.
2. VDJ78 — 3-Door Troop Carrier ("Troopy")
Known affectionately in Australia as the Troopy, this long-wheelbase, high-roof van features two front doors and twin rear barn doors. It comes standard with dual 90L fuel tanks (180L total capacity) and is the absolute gold standard for remote overlanding camper conversions.
- Workmate (2-Seat or 3-Seat configurations): A pure commercial cargo workhorse. The rear cabin is completely bare, equipped with vinyl flooring and steel wheels. While older models had longitudinal troop-bench seats in the back, modern Australian Design Rules (ADR) safety regulations limited later VDJ78 Workmates primarily to front-row seating only.
- GXL (5-Seat configuration): Designed for travelers and 4WD clubs. It features a forward-facing 3-seater folding bench seat in the second row, full interior carpeting, extra sound deadening, power windows, and standard factory front and rear diff locks. A highly sought-after 70th Anniversary Edition was also made for this chassis.
3. VDJ79 — Cab Chassis (The "Ute")
The Ute is Australia's favorite configuration. Toyota supplies only the cab and the bare chassis from the factory. The rear tray or fully enclosed canopy is fitted by local dealers or aftermarket specialists (like ARB, TJM, or Norweld). It is split into two distinct body styles:
Single Cab (2-Door)
To meet strict Australian mining safety standards, Toyota heavily reinforced the single-cab frame to achieve a 5-Star ANCAP safety rating, including adding knee airbags.
- Workmate: The classic mine-site spec. Steel wheels, black plastic bumpers, part-time 4WD, vinyl bench/bucket split seating, and zero frills.
- GX: A mid-tier compromise. It keeps most of the rugged utility of the Workmate but adds 16-inch alloy wheels and wide over-fender wheel flares to give it a tougher look.
- GXL: The top-spec single cab. It includes factory front and rear diff locks, a chrome front grille, chrome bumper accents, power windows, central locking, and premium cloth bucket seats.
Double Cab (4-Door)
Introduced to the 70 Series family in 2012, this is currently one of the most highly sought-after platforms in Australia for heavy-duty family touring and custom canopy builds.
- Workmate: Built for farm owners, national parks, and commercial fleet managers who need to carry a crew of 5 across rugged terrain.
- GXL: The ultimate touring platform. Australian remote travelers usually buy the GXL Double Cab and immediately replace the standard tray with a high-end, custom aluminum canopy featuring built-in fridges, dual-battery systems, and rooftop tents. It comes standard with alloy wheels, flares, and front/rear factory diff locks. A 70th Anniversary Edition was also offered for this body style.
###### Attention Buyer:
Please note that we are offering a very large discount on this item. However, because this product includes 4 brake rotors and 2 sets of brake pads, the total weight exceeds 35kg. We must split this shipment into two separate parcels, which results in very high shipping costs.
We offer Free Shipping to major city metropolitan areas. If you are located in a remote or regional area, an additional shipping surcharge MAY apply. While we will still cover a portion of the shipping cost, the buyer will need to pay the remaining balance. We kindly ask for your understanding.
The areas most likely to require an additional shipping fee include:
- Northern Queensland (FNQ / Regional QLD)
- Tasmania (TAS)
- Western Australia (WA)
- Northern Territory (NT)
- Other remote or regional areas
Thank you for your understanding! If you have any questions, please contact us via eBay Message. Thank you! #####