The Toyota Fortuner, a popular SUV based on the HiLux platform, remains secure in the Australian market despite being discontinued in neighboring New Zealand. This development highlights the differing market demands and strategies across the Tasman, while also raising questions about the model's long-term future in Australia.Key points:
Toyota New Zealand has discontinued the Fortuner due to low sales volumes.The Fortuner continues to be offered in Australia, with no immediate plans for discontinuation. In Australia, the Fortuner sold 3619 units in 2023, representing 2.9% of the large SUV segment under $70,000.
The Fortuner's Australian sales figures, while modest, are significantly higher than those in New Zealand. Toyota Australia has confirmed the Fortuner's place in the local lineup, stating it "remains an important part of our SUV range. The Fortuner offers a more affordable alternative to the LandCruiser Prado in the Toyota SUV lineup.
The model benefits from its relationship with the HiLux, sharing many components and reducing production costs. Despite its continuation in Australia, the Fortuner faces stiff competition from rivals like the Ford Everest and Isuzu MU-X. The upcoming release of the new-generation LandCruiser Prado may impact the Fortuner's position in the lineup.
Toyota's future plans for the Fortuner in Australia remain uncertain, with potential for updates or repositioning in the market.
While the Toyota Fortuner's discontinuation in New Zealand raises questions about its future, the model's stronger performance in Australia suggests it will remain part of Toyota's local lineup for the foreseeable future. However, with evolving market demands and upcoming model releases, Toyota may need to reassess the Fortuner's position in its SUV range to ensure its continued relevance and success in the Australian market.
