What Toyota models are not sold in Australia?
Some Toyota models are not sold in Australia, notably the US-market heavyweights Sequoia, Tundra, the 4Runner, the FJ Cruiser (discontinued), and the Avalon sedan. These vehicles are not part of Toyota Australia’s current official lineup, though private imports occasionally appear in the market. Availability can change, so checking the latest official listings is advisable.
This article explains which models are not marketed locally, why that happens, and what local alternatives exist for buyers seeking similar capabilities or sizes.
Not sold in Australia — the models to know
Before listing, here is a snapshot of models that Toyota does not offer through its Australian operations. This reflects regional strategy rather than a global product ban.
- Toyota Sequoia
- Toyota Tundra
- Toyota 4Runner
- Toyota FJ Cruiser (discontinued; not offered new)
- Toyota Avalon
Note: The Sequoia, Tundra, and 4Runner are traditionally US-market or global niche offerings that have not been integrated into Toyota Australia’s showroom lineup. The FJ Cruiser was globally discontinued in 2014 and Avalon has not been a staple in Australia, where other sedans like Camry have long served the market.
Why the models aren’t offered in Australia
Australia’s product strategy relies on demand, regulatory fit, and the economics of right‑hand‑drive markets. Some vehicles are designed predominantly for left‑hand drive regions or require retooling for Australian production and dealer networks. Compliance costs, import logistics, and local vehicle tax regimes also influence whether a model is viable to import and support locally.
What this means for buyers seeking alternatives
For buyers after similar capabilities or size, Australian options include the Land Cruiser Prado for rugged off‑road capacity, the Kluger (Highlander) for family SUVs, the RAV4 for compact-to-mid-size versatility, and the Hilux as the core pickup in the market. These models cover many of the roles that Sequoia, Tundra, and 4Runner would play in other regions, with Australian tuning and dealer support.
Always verify with Toyota Australia’s official site or a local dealer for the latest lineup, as model availability can shift with new generations or regional adjustments.
Summary: Toyota does not offer several US-market or niche models in Australia, notably the Sequoia, Tundra, 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, and Avalon. Local substitutes exist to fill similar roles, but buyers should consult current official listings for the most up-to-date information.
Why did Toyota shut down in Australia?
In February 2014, it was announced Toyota would cease manufacturing vehicles and engines in Australia by the end of 2017. The decision was based on the unfavourable Australian dollar making exports not viable, the high cost of local manufacture and the high amount of competition in a relatively small local market.
Why are Toyota HiLux not allowed in the US?
The Toyota Hilux is not officially sold in the US due to the 25% "chicken tax" on imported light trucks, which makes it economically unviable. Additionally, the model's current design doesn't meet US safety and emissions standards, and Toyota has already developed the Tacoma to specifically meet the needs of the American market.
- The "Chicken Tax": A 25% tariff on imported light trucks makes it too expensive for Toyota to import and sell the Hilux in the US. To get around this, Toyota builds its trucks like the Tacoma and Tundra in America.
- Safety and Emissions Standards: The current Hilux models are not designed to meet US safety and emissions regulations, which differ from those in other countries. Modifying them to comply would be a significant and costly undertaking.
- Market Suitability: The Toyota Tacoma was created to be a more suitable replacement for the Hilux in the US market, as it is larger and more aligned with American consumer preferences for daily-driver trucks.
- Potential for Cannibalization: If both the Hilux and the Tacoma were sold, it could negatively impact the sales of the Tacoma, which was specifically designed for American buyers.
What Toyota SUV is sold outside the US?
Toyota sells many SUVs outside the US, including the Prado, Fortuner, Land Cruiser 70 and 300 series, and the new Land Cruiser FJ. The Prado is a luxury SUV found in Africa, Australia, South America, and Asia. The Fortuner is a mid-size, body-on-frame SUV based on the Hilux and is sold globally except in North America, Europe, and Japan.
This video explains why Toyota Fortuner is not sold in the USA: 48sGarage IQYouTube · Aug 26, 2025
Other notable Toyota SUVs sold internationally
- Land Cruiser 70 and 300 Series: The 70 series is a rugged, off-road model, while the 300 series is a more modern, luxury SUV. Both are sold in many global markets, but not in North America or Europe.
- Land Cruiser FJ: A compact, body-on-frame off-roader that is not being offered in the US, but is sold in other markets like the Middle East.
- Innova Zenix: An MPV with crossover-like styling, primarily sold in Southeast Asia, India, and Latin America.
- Century SUV: A new, luxurious SUV currently sold in Japan, with potential for overseas sales.
Is the Toyota Prius sold in Australia?
Prius has now been discontinued
Today Hybrid vehicles can be found across select vehicles in the Toyota range, from small hatchbacks to SUVs. So while we're sad to farewell this pioneering vehicle, we're proud to say it's never been easier to drive a Hybrid Electric Toyota that suits you.
