LandCruiser GXL Turbo-diesel has won its second major award in as many weeks, being voted the "Bushdriver" magazine 4WD Wagon of the Year for 2000.

4x4 Australia magazine had previously awarded the100 Series Turbo-diesel its 4WD of the Year accolade. RAV4 also received Bushdriver’s Small 4WD of the Year award for 2000.

The 100 Series GXL Turbo-diesel LandCruiser beat five other nominees, Bushdriver magazine concluding that "no vehicle in this year’s line-up could match the GXL’s outstanding all-round performance."

GXL’s new Turbo-diesel engine is the most powerful in its class (151kW and 430Nm) , with 30 percent more power and 21 percent more torque than its nearest competitor.

Its torque curve is almost flat from 1000 to 3500rpm for optimum driveability.

Bushdriver’s award judges praised the GXL’s engine for its "abundance of torque" saying it "could well be crowned the ultimate towing chariot ".

They also praised the independent front suspension combined with rack and pinion steering, saying the LandCruiser’s handling "had to be experienced to be believed."

Bushdriver said that although there would be some initial resistance to LandCruiser’s departure from solid axle front suspension, the new system "offers a taste of the future in GXL and it is only a matter of time before IFS is adopted by all leading manufacturers."

All three LandCruiser Turbo-diesel models have independent front suspension, designed to improve the vehicle’s on and off-road comfort while retaining its "go-anywhere" ability.

LandCruiser’s IFS has been designed to provide excellent wheel articulation over uneven terrain, while at the same time reducing body roll and increasing cornering ability.

Special attention has been given to ensuring the front suspension’s durability in harsh conditions, with major components protected by sturdy chassis cross-members.

"The LandCruiser GXL Turbo-diesel sets a new standard in automotive engineering, appointment and most of all handling technology," said Bushdriver’s publisher Ric Williams.

RAV4 was also praised by Bushdriver magazine’s judges, who highlighted its "fine handling and spirited performance".

According to the magazine, "the panel all agreed that the modern stylish cult machine was impossible to top in the enjoyment stakes."