At PakWheels, we come across countless car reviews, modification projects, and overland builds. Every now and then, a story comes along that doesn’t just showcase an impressive machine; it challenges stereotypes and inspires the entire automotive community.
PakWheels’ Suneel Munj recently sat down with Ms. Humaira Tareen, a passionate Pakistani traveler who built a custom Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series, affectionately named “Basanti”, to embark on solo overlanding trips across Pakistan and beyond. From driving all the way from Khunjerab Pass (China border) down to Gwadar, Humaira’s story proves that passion knows no age, gender, or boundaries.
The Origin Story: Breaking Free After 50
For many, life after fulfilling family responsibilities means settling down quietly. For Humaira, it was a wake-up call.
“Post-COVID was an awakening call for everyone. Life was passing by, and the question was: ‘I will die one day, but have I truly lived?’ I realized I had fulfilled my primary responsibilities; my kids were grown up and settled. This was my second inning.”
Humaira’s road trip began in the UK, where she attempted a cross-country drive from John o’ Groats to Land’s End. Returning to Pakistan around 2021, she began driving regularly to the northern areas while building a resort in Hunza.
What started as short drives quickly turned into a passion for long-haul journeys. Today, she easily manages 17 to 18 hours of continuous driving in a single day.
Meet “Basanti”: A Restomod Toyota 70 Series
While Humaira previously covered the Khunjerab-to-Gwadar route in a Honda Vezel, navigating rugged northern terrains demanded a much sturdier, mechanically reliable machine. She needed a build that offered the toughness of a vintage 4×4 paired with modern engine reliability.
Working remotely from Birmingham, UK, with a specialist restoration workshop in Karachi, Humaira brought her dream overland machine to life.
The Color Choice
Why name it Basanti? It isn’t just a nod to iconic cinema; it reflects the vehicle’s vibrant, bold character. Humaira chose a distinct shade situated right between burnt yellow and orange, similar to Lamborghini’s signature Giallo shade.
“I wanted something distinct, unique, and instantly recognizable from a distance during overland tours. Yellow gives it character; every time I stop for fuel, women and kids wave, smile, and give a thumbs-up.”
Specifications and Custom Modifications
The project involved stripping the donor vehicle down to raw metal and completely rebuilding it with modern running gear, heavy-duty suspension, and custom aesthetic touches.
| Category | Component / Spec | Details |
| Vehicle Platform | Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series | 5-Door Configuration |
| Engine Swap | Toyota 2.8L 1GD-FTV | Modern Hilux Revo Turbo-Diesel Engine |
| Transmission | Sequential Auto Transmission | Paired with 1GD-FTV powertrain |
| 4×4 System | Original Toyota 4WD System | Fully functional with Transfer Case |
| Off-Road Upgrades | Heavy-Duty Winch & Diff Locks | Kings Winch + Complete Differential Locks |
| Suspension & Brakes | Upgraded Suspension System | Enhanced ground clearance and heavy braking |
| Overland Gear | Roof-Top Tent & 270-degree Awning | Complete setup for outdoor camping |
| Interior | Custom Modern Dashboard & Trim | Black Alcantara headliner with yellow contrast stitching |
Engine and Mechanical Performance
When restoring an older 4×4 for harsh mountain climates, opting for a modern, reliable powertrain makes all the difference.
While the workshop initially suggested a classic 1KZ engine, Humaira decided to upgrade to the 1GD-FTV 2.8L Turbo-Diesel, the exact engine found in modern Toyota Hilux Revo models.
Why the 1GD Engine?
- Unmatched Reliability: Delivers modern torque and power curves while eliminating the fatigue of older diesel engines.
- Parts Availability: Since Toyota parts are ubiquitous across Northern Pakistan (Gilgit-Baltistan), finding spares or mechanics familiar with Toyota diesel engines is easy.
- Challenging Climates: Provides strong low-end grunt for steep mountain passes without overheating issues.
Total Estimated Project Cost: PKR 10,000,000+ (1 Crore+ PKR)
Overland Dreams: The “Sufi Trail”
Humaira’s ambitions extend far beyond Pakistan’s borders. She is actively prepping Basanti for an international overland route she calls the Sufi Trail:
- Leg 1: Crossing into China: Drive through Khunjerab Pass into Kashgar, China.
- Leg 2: Central Asia Exploration: Traverse Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan (exploring historic Samarkand and Bukhara), and Kazakhstan.
- Leg 3: The Ferry Crossing: Take a Caspian Sea ferry crossing to Azerbaijan and head toward Turkey.
- Leg 4: Final Destination: Conclude the journey in Konya, Turkey, the resting place of Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi.
A Message to the PakWheels Community
This review wasn’t just about horsepower, chassis rails, or diff locks; it was about empowerment and breaking societal barriers.
“Driving is an essential life skill, not just a luxury. It gives you independence. Women should never feel dependent on anyone to get around. In our society, we often confuse driving with being ‘overly modern.’ In reality, it’s simply a practical necessity.”
Suneel Munj echoed these thoughts, pointing out that passion has no gender or age limit. Whether you are 20 or 50, if you have a dream to build a car, explore the country, or set off on a road trip, the hardest part is simply taking the first step.
You can watch the complete review here:
Final Verdict
Humaira Tareen’s Toyota 70 Series “Basanti” is a masterclass in custom restomods, blending classic 70 Series toughness with modern Toyota performance. More importantly, it stands as a rolling symbol of freedom, road-trip spirit, and pure automotive enthusiasm.
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