Land Cruiser

Make
Toyota
Segment
SUV

The Toyota Land Cruiser has gone through many generations - culminating with the new 300 Series - since it premiered way back in 1951. The story goes is that the SUV was reverse-engineered after the Japanese Imperial Army found an abandoned US Army Jeep in the Philippines in 1941, and sent it back home. The Japanese government demanded Toyota build something similar for its own military.

Following the war's conclusion, this vehicle was modified for civilian use, just like the American original. The third-generation Land Cruiser, dubbed J40, aka the 40 Series, was launched in 1960 and remained on sale until 1984 when it was replaced by the J70/70 Series.

That SUV remains on sale to this day in some parts of the world. And it was exactly 70 years ago yesterday, August 1, when the civilian Land Cruiser debuted. To celebrate the occasion, Toyota Gazoo Racing has announced a new parts reproduction program for the 40 Series.

Like other similar programs for the A70 and A80 Supra, and the 2000GT, new spare parts that have long been out of production will be made available through special agreements with suppliers. Toyota wants 40 Series owners to have access to certified and newly built parts to keep these icons up and running for decades to come.

Despite the 40 Series' nearly quarter-century lifespan, Toyota realized there was a lack of suitable replacement parts for these aging vehicles. As part of its due diligence, Toyota reached out to Land Cruiser fan clubs and dealers throughout the world to get a clear understanding of which parts owners need most. Not surprisingly, requests were made for components related to engines, drivelines, and exhaust systems. Final program preparations are now underway and Toyota aims to launch the new parts catalog early next year.

In addition, GR Racing is preparing a questionnaire for its official website to give customers the opportunity to request additional spare parts. Toyota will take this information into consideration and will oblige if demand is high.