Toyota Fortuner Discontinued in Australia: Low Sales and Shifting Preferences End 11-Year Run by Mid-2026
In a move signaling the end of an era for Toyota’s rugged seven-seater SUV, the Fortuner will be discontinued in Australia by mid-2026, with no replacement planned as buyers flock to alternatives like the HiLux ute and pricier LandCruiser Prado. The decision, announced last week amid the unveiling of the refreshed 2026 HiLux, underscores sluggish sales— just 2,928 units moved from January to October 2025—trailing rivals like the Ford Everest (21,915 units) and Isuzu MU-X (12,499 units) by wide margins. Toyota Australia VP Sean Hanley called it a “normal business case,” noting the model’s loyal but niche following has shifted toward other lineup staples.
Launched Down Under in 2015 as a diesel-powered, HiLux-based alternative to the petrol Kluger (now hybrid-only), the Fortuner offered a starting price under $50,000 AUD before on-roads, rear- or four-wheel drive, and a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine (150kW/500Nm) mated to a six-speed auto. It carved a small but dedicated space for off-road families seeking affordability over luxury, but never cracked the top sellers in a market dominated by full-size utes and premium body-on-frame SUVs. Production for the current generation wraps next year in Thailand, and while a next-gen Fortuner debuts globally in 2025 with updated styling and hybrid options, Australia won’t import it—opting instead to rationalize its portfolio amid EV and hybrid pushes.
The axing follows a similar quiet exit in New Zealand last year, where low demand also doomed the model. Hanley emphasized Fortuner’s role in diversifying Toyota’s offerings but highlighted buyer migration: “Largely, they’re moving back into HiLux, or they’re moving into [LandCruiser Prado or 300 Series] SUVs.” No farewell editions are planned, leaving remaining 2025 stock to clear via existing dealer incentives.
Industry watchers see this as Toyota doubling down on high-volume heroes. The Prado’s 23,298 sales YTD dwarf the Fortuner, while the incoming electric HiLux in 2026 signals a greener future—though diesel loyalists can still opt for updated HiLux variants. Globally, the Fortuner thrives in markets like India (over 30,000 units monthly) and the Philippines, where it’s a bestseller, but Australia’s preference for refined crossovers and utes has sealed its fate.
Public reactions on X have been a mix of nostalgia and shrugs. One viral thread lamented, “RIP Fortuner—Australia’s loss, but Prado’s gain? Sales say yes,” racking up 2,500 likes amid debates on diesel’s decline. Forums like Reddit’s r/CarsAustralia buzz with “Finally—Everest was always better anyway,” while off-road enthusiasts mourn the “budget Prado killer.”
For U.S. off-road fans eyeing imports or parallels, the Fortuner’s exit echoes the 4Runner’s enduring appeal—both body-on-frame icons, but Australia’s shift mirrors stateside trends toward electrified adventurers like the EV Bronco. Economically, it streamlines Toyota’s $10B+ Aussie ops, freeing resources for hybrids amid 2025’s fuel price volatility. Politically neutral, but timely: As EV mandates loom, diesel holdouts like the HiLux ensure Toyota’s blue-collar base stays loyal.
Lifestyle impact? Families lose a $50K seven-seater with 3,000kg towing, but the Prado steps up at $70K+ with more polish. Tech angles: No ADAS regrets here—the Fortuner’s basic suite lags modern rivals anyway.
As mid-2026 approaches, Toyota’s Fortuner chapter closes quietly Down Under— a reminder that even unbreakable utes can’t outrun market Darwinism. Keen on one? Snap up leftovers now; the outback won’t wait.
By Mark Smith
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