√Toyota LandCruiser could return to the USA

The Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series was initially rejected in North America because it was deemed too expensive, but it could soon make a comeback to the USA, according to overseas reports.

The new-generation Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series was considered too costly for US customers when the latest model was expected to start from $US90,000.

But it appears Toyota USA may be about to make a U-turn on that decision.

The Toyota LandCruiser was withdrawn from sale in the US last year once the previous generation 200 Series reached the end of the production line.

However, the 2022 Lexus LX – based on the new LandCruiser 300 Series but with unique bodywork – has made it into showrooms with a starting price of $US86,900 and a flagship LX 600 Ultra Luxury model from $US126,000.

Now Toyota of North America is reportedly taking a fresh look at the LandCruiser, according to respected US magazine Motor Trend, although there is no firm timing for a return of the off-road icon.

According to Motor Trend, the sales chief for Toyota Motor North America has hinted about a comeback.

“Will we ever? I would say likely yes,” Jack Hollis, the sales chief for Toyota Motor North America, told Motor Trend.

However the high-ranking executive declined to give a timeline and said that information would have to wait.

When the departure of the LandCruiser from the USA was announced last year in the run-up to the arrival of the 300 Series, Toyota appeared to leave the door open as it asked “loyal enthusiasts and intrepid adventurers to stay tuned for future developments”.

“Obviously LandCruiser is such an important part of our heritage and has done such a great job. And I’ll be looking at it, absolutely,” said Mr Hollis.

“Have I seen designs, thoughts, and hopes? Yes. But nothing to announce. It’s still a ways off,” he told Motor Trend.

Motor Trend also speculated the comeback plan could stretch deep into the life of the Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series, and the potential development of a hybrid model as recently reported by Drive.

Meantime, a comeback in the USA could be bad news for Australia, where the waiting time for a new Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series already stretches from nine to 18 months. And there is no sign of any improvement to the tight supplies from Japan.

The post Toyota LandCruiser could return to the USA – report appeared first on Drive.