Toyota Australia is pleasantly surprised by the robust demand for its new four-cylinder LandCruiser 70 Series, with buyers showing keen interest, especially those who have been enduring lengthy waits for the V8 variant.
Despite the prolonged absence of the V8 model from the order books, the Japanese automaker is witnessing a surge in popularity for the 2.8-liter diesel four-cylinder version, introduced late last year.
The future of the LandCruiser 70 Series V8 remains uncertain, with various challenges looming, including the impending imposition of emissions targets for new vehicles in Australia, which could penalize high-emission models.
Nonetheless, Toyota reports that the current order rate for the 2.8-liter diesel four-cylinder and six-speed automatic transmission is double what was initially anticipated, with fleet customers showing particularly strong interest.
Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia’s sales and marketing head, noted the unexpectedly high acceptance of the four-cylinder variant, especially among fleet customers, praising its exceptional performance.
Many buyers who had originally placed orders for the V8 model, facing extended wait times, are now opting for the four-cylinder version, which is readily available.
Despite the shift in demand towards the four-cylinder variant, Toyota is mindful of existing V8 orders and is giving priority to customers who have been waiting for an extended period.
The estimated wait time for the four-cylinder LandCruiser 70 Series is currently four to six months, reflecting the strong demand for this model. Toyota’s decision to introduce the 2.8-liter four-cylinder variant and prioritize it for V8 customers aims to alleviate the backlog of V8 orders.
However, the future availability of the V8 model remains uncertain, with reports suggesting production of certain body styles may cease later this year, and for the rest of the range by mid-next year.
Mr. Hanley emphasized that Toyota will not reopen orders for the V8 variant until there is certainty about its ability to fulfill customer demand. The automaker is actively working to convert buyers to the four-cylinder model and will assess the final demand for V8s before making further decisions regarding production and availability.
