The Cruiser Store | April 2026 | 6 min read
If you’ve driven a stock LandCruiser for any length of time — especially when towing, touring, or running larger tyres — you’ve probably noticed it. Sluggish throttle response, more effort climbing hills, and an engine that feels like it’s working harder than it should.
One of the most common upgrades LandCruiser owners make is the exhaust system. While it’s not the flashiest modification, it can improve drivability, reduce engine strain, and complement other upgrades like tuning or intercoolers.
Why Owners Upgrade the Factory Exhaust
Toyota designs LandCruisers to meet global emissions, noise, durability, and cost requirements. That means the factory exhaust is built to perform reliably across a wide range of conditions — not necessarily to maximise performance.
Factory systems often include:
- Smaller pipe diameters
- Pressed bends that restrict flow
- Multiple mufflers or resonators
- Emissions components that increase backpressure
These design choices help with compliance and longevity, but they can also create additional resistance for exhaust gases leaving the engine.
Turbo Diesel vs Naturally Aspirated Engines
Exhaust upgrades typically provide the most noticeable benefits on turbo diesel engines, which includes most LandCruisers from the 1990s onward.
Reducing exhaust backpressure can:
- Help the turbo spool more efficiently
- Improve throttle response
- Reduce exhaust gas temperatures (EGTs), particularly when towing
- Improve drivability under load
For naturally aspirated engines, gains tend to be smaller, but improvements in engine breathing and sound can still be noticeable.
It’s also worth noting that exhaust upgrades often work best when combined with ECU tuning or other performance upgrades.
The Mandrel Bend Difference
Not all exhaust systems are created equal.
Many factory systems — and some budget aftermarket options — use press-bent pipes, where the pipe is compressed during the bend. This reduces the internal diameter and can restrict flow.
Mandrel bending uses an internal support during the bending process, maintaining a consistent pipe diameter throughout the system.
Benefits of mandrel bending:
- Improved exhaust flow
- Reduced turbulence
- Consistent performance across the entire system
While the difference varies depending on the vehicle and setup, mandrel-bent systems are generally considered the preferred option for performance and longevity.
Stainless Steel vs Mild Steel
Material choice plays a big role in durability.
Mild Steel
- Lower cost
- Prone to rust over time
- Shorter lifespan, especially in coastal or off-road environments
Stainless Steel vs Mild Steel
Material matters, especially for touring vehicles, beach driving, mud, and long-term ownership.
Mild Steel
- Lower upfront cost
- More prone to rust over time
- Shorter lifespan in harsh environments
Stainless Steel
- Strong corrosion resistance
- Longer service life
- Better suited to off-road and touring use
304 Stainless Steel
Widely regarded as a premium option for aftermarket exhaust systems thanks to its corrosion resistance, durability, and long-term appearance.
What Changes in the Real World
After fitting a quality exhaust, owners commonly report:
- Improved throttle response
- Easier towing and climbing
- Reduced engine strain under load
- Lower exhaust gas temperatures (in some conditions)
- Deeper, more purposeful exhaust note
- Increased durability compared to factory systems
Fuel economy improvements are sometimes reported, but results vary depending on driving style and vehicle setup.
Series-by-Series Overview
60 Series (1980–1990)
The 12-HT turbo diesel responds well to exhaust upgrades. A properly sized 3” system can improve low-down torque and drivability, particularly in touring setups.
Link to 60 series exhausts here
80 Series (1990–1997)
Both diesel (1HD-T / 1HD-FT) and petrol (1FZ-FE) engines can benefit from exhaust upgrades. Diesel owners typically notice improved response, while petrol owners often upgrade for improved breathing and sound.
Link to 80 series exhausts here
100 & 105 Series (1998–2007)
The 1HD-FTE turbo diesel is known to respond well to a quality exhaust system, particularly when combined with tuning.
105 Series models with the 1HZ — especially turbocharged variants — also benefit from improved exhaust flow.
Link to 100 & 105 series exhausts:
70 Series — 76, 78 & 79 (2007–Current)
The 4.5L V8 turbo diesel (1VD-FTV) is one of the most popular platforms for exhaust upgrades. Owners commonly fit:
-
Turbo-back systems (pre-DPF models)
-
DPF-back systems (post-2016 models)
This helps improve response, towing performance, and sound.
Link to 70 series exhausts:
200 Series (2007–2022)
The twin-turbo V8 diesel benefits from a well-designed twin-into-single system. Improvements are typically seen in throttle response and mid-range performance.
DPF compliance is important for later models.
Link to 200 series exhausts here
300 Series (2022–Current)
The LC300 uses a modern twin-turbo V6 diesel with DPF and emissions equipment. DPF-back systems are the appropriate upgrade, maintaining compliance while improving flow.
Link to 200 series exhausts here
What We Stock: Beaudesert Exhaust Systems
We stock Beaudesert Exhaust, an Australian manufacturer producing mandrel-bent stainless systems designed specifically for LandCruisers.
Available in two specifications:
Rugged
- Premium 304 stainless steel
- Raw functional finish
- Built for practical touring and hard use
- Excellent corrosion resistance
Ultimate
- Premium 304 stainless steel
- Polished premium finish
- Clamp marks and visual imperfections removed
- Ideal for owners wanting the best presentation
These systems are designed to clear:
- Suspension upgrades
- Long range fuel tanks
- Larger tyres
Things to Consider Before You Buy
DPF Compliance
If your vehicle has a DPF (generally post-2015/16), ensure your exhaust system is compliant. Removing emissions equipment is illegal on Australian roads.
Pipe Diameter
Bigger isn’t always better. The correct diameter depends on engine type, turbo size, and intended use.
Fitment
Check compatibility with:
- Suspension lifts
- Long range tanks
- Tow bars
- Accessories
Quality systems are designed with these in mind.
The Bottom Line
An exhaust upgrade isn’t the biggest performance modification you can make — but it’s one of the most practical. It improves drivability, supports other performance upgrades, and adds long-term durability.
For many LandCruiser owners, it’s a modification that improves the driving experience every time they get behind the wheel.
If you’d like help choosing the right system for your vehicle, get in touch — we’re happy to help.
Disclaimer:
Always ensure exhaust modifications comply with local regulations and emissions requirements. DPF removal or bypass is not legal for road use in Australia. Lead times for made-to-order systems may vary.