Plan your Self Drive

Usefull Information

Land Cruiser Double Cab Review

When it comes to tackling Tanzania’s rugged landscapes, few vehicles can match the legendary Toyota Land Cruiser HZJ79-70 Series Double Cab—and at Safari Masters, it’s one of our most trusted workhorses for both self-drive safaris and guided adventures.

This Land Cruiser is a beast built for Africa. Whether you’re crossing the dusty plains of the Serengeti, climbing the escarpments of Ngorongoro, or navigating riverbeds in Tarangire, the Land Cruiser delivers the reliability and performance needed for serious exploration.

🔧 Performance and Engine Specs

1 HZ Engine Option

  • Engine: 4.2L 1HZ inline 6-cylinder diesel engine

  • Fuel Type: Diesel

  • Transmission: 5-speed manual

  • Horsepower: Approx. 129 HP

  • Torque: 285 Nm @ 2,200 RPM

  • Fuel Consumption: 6-8km per litre

This naturally aspirated diesel engine is renowned for its longevity, simplicity, and ease of maintenance—a perfect match for remote areas where support is minimal.

The HZJ79 is not built for speed—it’s built for durability, power, and unwavering performance under pressure. It has a powerful low-end torque ideal for slow, controlled off-roading through mud, sand, and rocky terrain. Most of our Land Cruisers are fitted with 1HZ engines.

1GR Engine Option

  • 1GR-FE: 4.0L Petrol, DOHC V petrol engine
  • Fuel Type: Petrol/Gasoline
  • Transmission: 5-speed manual
  • Horsepower: 228 hp
  • Torque: 360Nm @ 3,600RPM
  • Fuel Consumption: 6-8km per litre

This GR engine family is a gasoline, open-deck, piston V6 engine series designed for higher power and torque than other Land Cruiser 70 families we have in our cars. The engine is silent in the wilderness, making it great for driving in the bush, especially if you want to have that sense of quiet nature. It was first introduced in 2009, our first acquisition was in the 2015 model Land Cruiser 70 family with chassis GRJ79 double cabin series.

This engine has both power and is made for speed, while we do not recommend driving beyond the speed limits in Tanzania and in the national parks. This engine can provide both speed and power.

Despite being more advanced technology than a 1Hz engine, this engine is very reliable and has less maintenance. Currently, we run two fleets with this engine.

2.8L GD-6 Turbo-Diesel (2024+ update)

  • GD-6: Turbocharged 4-cylinder, modern Common-Rail

  • Fuel Type: Diesel

  • Transmission: Automatic
  • Horsepower: 228hp
  • Torque: 500Nm
  • Fuel Consumption: 9-11km per litre

This 1GD engine was introduced recently in markets like Australia, paired with a 6-speed auto transmission; noted for matching the V8’s power with much more torque. We have experienced this engine performance in the Toyota Hilux, a powerful and very economical engine. Since these engines are found in most other models like Hilux and Fortuner in East Africa, they have spare parts available throughout. We are currently running the Land Cruiser 70 series with a 1GD engine for trial in the tough terrains of the parks and reliability in remote areas.

🪑 Seating and Comfort

  • Seating Capacity: Up to 5 passengers

  • Cabin Style: Double Cabin (dual-row seating)

  • Interior Features:

    • Comfortable front bucket seats

    • Air conditioning and power steering

    • Conversion features: fridge, charging ports, additional storage, spare tyres, and added leaf spring.

While utilitarian by nature, our fleet ensures that all Land Cruisers are well-maintained and safari-ready, with thoughtful modifications for extra comfort during long drives.

🛞 4WD Capability & Off-Road Performance

  • 4WD with Low-Range Gearing

  • Solid Front and Rear Axles

  • Heavy-duty leaf spring suspension

  • Raised air intake (snorkel) for water crossings

  • High ground clearance

  • All-terrain tires

  • Dual fuel tanks for extended range

The double cab is designed to go where most vehicles can’t—making it ideal for challenging routes, remote camps, or off-grid adventures. Whether you’re navigating dry riverbeds or slippery escarpments, the 4WD system engages smoothly and keeps you in control.

⛽ Fuel Efficiency and Range

  • Fuel Capacity: Up to 200 liters (dual tank system)

  • Average Consumption: depending on engine models, it mostly ranges from 6–11 km/L

  • Estimated Range: 1,000+ km depending on terrain and load

Thanks to its large fuel capacity and diesel efficiency, this Land Cruiser can cover long distances without refueling, making it ideal for areas with limited fuel availability.

🧳 Cargo and Utility

  • Heavy-duty rear tray/bed – ideal for luggage, camping gear, or tools

  • Side Awn Canopy – for secure and weather-proof storage

  • Optional Roof racks available – for rooftop tents, extra luggage, or jerry cans

This makes it perfect for:

  • Self-drive overland safaris

  • Long-term expeditions

  • Photography tours

  • Conservation fieldwork

💬 Why Choose Our Double Cabs?

At Safari Masters, we understand the African terrain like no one else. That’s why we’ve equipped our HZJ79 fleet to meet the real-world challenges of Tanzanian safaris—balancing rugged capability with practical comfort.

Our vehicles are:

  • Meticulously maintained

  • Safari-ready

  • Backed by 24/7 support

  • Large leg room in the rear seating row

  • Equipped with GPS, tools, and emergency supplies

📸 Ready to Conquer the Wild?

If you’re planning a self-drive safari, overland expedition, or want the most reliable vehicle under you, the Toyota Land Cruiser HZJ79 Double Cab is the clear choice.

Book your Land Cruiser now and experience Tanzania with the confidence and freedom only Safari Masters can deliver.

👉 Contact Us for availability, pricing, and custom safari setups!