Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series safety upgrades coming in 2016

The Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series is set to benefit from a significant safety upgrade in the second half of next year.

Toyota Australia says the upgrades are intended to help the top-selling 70 Series single-cab ute increase its ANCAP safety rating from three stars to the maximum five.

In addition to their currently standard driver and passenger front airbags, 70 Series single-cab variants will gain front side, curtain and driver’s knee airbags, taking the count to seven.

All 70 Series body styles â€" single- and dual-cab, wagon and troop carrier â€" will also be equipped with electronic stability control, brake assist and cruise control.

Toyota Australia executive director sales and marketing Tony Cramb said the safety upgrades due next year would secure the future of the LandCruiser 70 Series for local customers.

“These updates will support continued strong buyer demand for an unapologetically rugged vehicle that is renowned for its heavy-duty capabilities,” Cramb said.

“We have worked closely with employers in mining, agriculture, construction, communications support and recreation to develop these improvements.

“Toyota’s commitment to them â€" as well as to the towns, rural communities and work sites where the LandCruiser’s reputation was born â€" will further cement the unique bond with customers forged over the past 30 years.”

The Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series range is priced from $56,990 to $65,990 plus on-road costs.