Brian Joss – The Land Cruiser Namib edition was introduced to the South African market in the third quarter of 2019.
Featuring a bespoke overlanding accessory package and aesthetic enhancements, the Namib was exceptionally well received – with all 60 units selling out by January 2020.
With this positive market response in mind, Toyota has commissioned a re-run of the Land Cruiser Namib and added a single-cab derivative based on customer requests.
The single – and double-cab Land Cruiser Namib editions will share a common package, distinguishing them from their ‘standard’ Land Cruiser 79 brethren.
The Namib Package has a front grille with robust mesh design and prominent Toyota lettering; sStylised Namib badging on fenders and tailgate; heavy-duty steel front bumper with integrated nudge-bar and headlight protectors; and; protective loadbin skin, the name a few features. Inside there is a glovebox with integrated cooling duct and a roof-mounted console with LED lighting and storage binnacles.
The Namib edition is available in two colours; Ivory White and Sand Beige.
The ‘Namib’ makes use of the revered 1VD-FTV 4.5-litre turbodiesel engine, churning out 151 kW and 430 Nm from a low 1200 rpm (up to 3200 rpm). The Fuel Consumption index is pegged at 11.3 l/100km.
It retains all of the standard Land Cruiser 79 D-Cab V8 specification, which include a touchscreen audio system with built-in Navigation, Bluetooth, front power socket, power windows, tilt and telescopic steering column, remote central locking and anti-theft system. The safety systems include driver and passenger airbags alongside an anti-lock braking system (ABS).
Popular international automotive website Jalopnik even published an article labeling the Land Cruiser 79 Namib, the coolest Land Cruiser US-citizens can’t buy. The article includes references such as “beautifully brackish 70-series” and “coolest-looking and most utilitarian truck”. The Jalopnik reviews editor, Andrew Collins, recently experienced the virtues of the Land Cruiser Namib on a 1600 km trek around South Africa.
Model Line-up and Pricing: Land Cruiser 79 4.5D V8 S/C Namib – R 842 200 and Land Cruiser 79 4.5D V8 D/C Namib – R 911 500.
The production run is planned at 60 single-cab and 60 double-cab models (120 combined), over a six month period, with arrival of the first units at dealerships being imminent.
Popular: the Land Cruiser Namib Picture: Cornel van Heerden/Motorpress
