Has anyone else wondered why the Toyota Fortuner isn’t available in the U.S.? It’s built on the same platform as the Hilux, and it looks like a solid off-road SUV. The latest model even has a turbo diesel engine with more power and better fuel efficiency. Anyone know the real reason why we can’t get it here?
Yeah, I’ve been curious about that too. It’s weird that Toyota sells it in other markets but skips the U.S. Maybe emissions regulations?
Clarkson said:
Yeah, I’ve been curious about that too. It’s weird that Toyota sells it in other markets but skips the U.S. Maybe emissions regulations?
I heard it’s because Toyota thinks the 4Runner already fills that gap in the U.S. lineup. But the Fortuner has a diesel engine, which would be a great option for towing.
@Nash
That makes sense. The 4Runner is popular here, and Toyota probably doesn’t want to compete with itself. Still, I’d love to see a diesel option.
Could be crash regulations too. A lot of vehicles that do well internationally don’t meet U.S. safety standards.
GearHeadPro said:
Could be crash regulations too. A lot of vehicles that do well internationally don’t meet U.S. safety standards.
Yeah, I think that’s what happened with the Hilux too. It’s tough enough for other countries but doesn’t meet some of the stricter U.S. crash test rules.
Diesel engines aren’t as popular in the U.S. compared to other markets. Toyota might not think it’s worth bringing over.
Wynn said:
Diesel engines aren’t as popular in the U.S. compared to other markets. Toyota might not think it’s worth bringing over.
That’s probably true. Americans love gas engines and hybrids. But it’s still weird that Toyota hasn’t at least tested the Fortuner in the market.
Toyota also has to deal with different environmental regulations in the U.S. Maybe the diesel engine doesn’t meet some of the stricter emission rules?
Shay said:
Toyota also has to deal with different environmental regulations in the U.S. Maybe the diesel engine doesn’t meet some of the stricter emission rules?
Yeah, California alone has some crazy emissions laws. It might not be worth certifying a whole new vehicle just for that.
Even if Toyota brought it over, I bet they’d jack up the price like crazy. It’s probably cheaper to buy in Australia or Thailand than it would be here.
Jacob said:
Even if Toyota brought it over, I bet they’d jack up the price like crazy. It’s probably cheaper to buy in Australia or Thailand than it would be here.
For sure. The way Toyota prices things in the U.S., the Fortuner would probably be just as expensive as a Land Cruiser or something.