Gear
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The Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series has earned a reputation as one of Australia’s toughest workhorses. Its raw and unfiltered character is a big part of why the Toyota 79 Series still holds such a loyal following across remote stations, mine sites and touring circles.
However, even the most devoted owners will tell you the old-school charm comes with a few compromises. The basic cabin trim, thin sound proofing and agricultural ergonomics all remind you this is a vehicle designed for durability first and comfort second. Case in point, long hours behind the wheel make the awkward driving position obvious and the lack of storage or natural armrest placement leaves plenty to be desired on the daily commute.
None of these quirks are a surprise to seasoned 70 Series fans. They are part of the package and have been for decades. But with so many Australians using their 70 Series as a touring rig, trade ute or family adventure truck, the need to improve comfort, practicality and cabin functionality has never been greater.
This is where brands that specialise in the platform step in with practical, engineered solutions that fix the bits Toyota never updated. Which brings us to the 70 Series Store, a business dedicated entirely to improving the ownership experience of the Toyota 70 Series and 79 Series.
Interior comfort and usability
Toyota modernised the 70 Series drivetrain, but the cabin remains basic and short on comfort. Long stints behind the wheel highlight the awkward driving position, the lack of functional armrests and the limited storage. The following upgrades address those shortcomings directly and give the driver a more comfortable, usable space without taking away the rugged character of the 70 Series.
Cup Holder Armrests
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These armrests are a simple but transformative upgrade, fixing the lack of cup holders while doubling as a comfortable armrest. Easy to install without drilling, they are made from durable materials and sold as a pair for both front seats. One of the most installed 79 Series upgrades, they enhance daily driving comfort by keeping drinks secure and elbows supported on long trips or rough roads.
Centre Console Armrest Pro or Lite
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The factory centre console in a 70 Series sits low, which becomes uncomfortable over time. This upgrade raises the armrest to a more natural height and adds extra storage in the process. The Pro version also includes built in cup holders for added convenience across touring and work use.
Centre Console Fridge
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Replacing the factory console entirely, this unit adds a 7L compressor fridge along with extra storage, a phone holder and USB charging. By combining cooling, organisation and charging in one space, it keeps essentials accessible both around town and out bush.
Stainless Steel Door Trims
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The factory door sills wear quickly, especially in dusty or muddy environments. These trims upgrade the weak plastic with 304 grade stainless steel and a checker plate surface for safer footing as you climb in and out. Rubber edging protects the paint and helps the trims last in harsh conditions.
Practical Everyday Upgrades
Even small changes can significantly improve day-to-day comfort in the 70 Series. These upgrades target the most common complaints owners mention, from wind noise to shift feel, and help the cabin feel more refined without losing the Cruiser’s workhorse DNA.
Soundproofing Door Seal Kit
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This kit replaces worn factory door seals with a snug, rubber sealed system that closes the gaps around the doors. It fixes wind noise, improves insulation and gives the cab a noticeably quieter feel on the highway. Installation is straightforward and requires no specialist tools.
Gear Stick Extension
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The gearstick in a 70 Series sits low, forcing the driver to reach down awkwardly when shifting. This extension raises the lever to a more ergonomic position for more accurate shifts and less shoulder and arm fatigue. It works particularly well when paired with upgraded armrests.
Leather Gear Knob Kit
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The stock plastic knob is functional but not comfortable on long drives. This hand stitched leather replacement offers a softer, more tactile feel and makes shifting more pleasant day to day. It is a simple, direct swap that instantly improves cabin quality.
Exterior and Touring Essentials
Not every improvement takes place inside the cabin. These exterior upgrades focus on usability when maintaining the vehicle, preparing for a trip or dealing with everyday weather conditions.
70 Series Bonnet Gas Struts
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These gas struts replace the factory bonnet prop and make lifting the bonnet a simple one handed operation. Servicing, pre trip checks and general maintenance become easier and safer with the bonnet held securely open.
Weather Shields
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These Aussie-made weather shields let you crack your windows for airflow even during rain. They help reduce cabin heat, limit moisture build-up and are made from UV resistant acrylic for durability.
Dash Mat
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A dash mat is a practical upgrade for any long term 70 Series owner. It protects from UV damage, prevents fading and reduces glare while driving. A custom fit design ensures it stays in place even on corrugated roads.
Storage and Organisation
If you use a Toyota 79 Series dual cab for work or touring, you already know how limited the rear cabin storage is. These upgrades help organise gear more effectively without sacrificing passenger space.
Rear Side Consoles
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The rear side consoles make use of wasted cabin space by fitting on either side of the rear bench. They add storage pockets, cup holders and optional USB ports while remaining slim enough to keep foot room and entry clear.
The 70 Series remains one of Australia’s most trusted platforms, but it benefits greatly from smart upgrades that improve comfort, usability and long haul drivability.
These changes do not alter the core character of the vehicle. They simply enhance the way modern owners use their vehicles today and help address the well-known compromises that have been part of the platform for decades.
Specialist suppliers like the 70 Series Store play a clear role in bringing these improvements to life. Its catalogue is built around solving real issues that long-time owners recognise the moment they climb into the cab. Better storage, improved ergonomics and more functional interior components make a noticeable difference from the first drive.
We will be testing a selection of 70 Series Store upgrades on our own 4X4 Australia 79 Series project ute as part of our long-term evaluation. As always, we will report back with real-world results from bush tracks, highways and everyday driving.
Stay tuned as we see which upgrades make the biggest impact on everyday 70 Series ownership.
