New Delhi. Toyota Land Cruiser FJ has left no stone unturned in attracting people’s attention. It was revealed about a week before the Japan Mobility Show and immediately became popular as the entry-level model of the global Land Cruiser lineup. This model was so popular during the show that it became difficult to even see it properly during the press days. Toyota has kept its design simple and functional, which will appeal to those who miss the discontinued FJ Cruiser.
Ban in America
But just because everyone wants to take a closer look, doesn’t mean everyone will be able to buy it. The compact off-roader is already unavailable in the US and Europe, and now Australia – a major SUV market for Toyota – has also been put on the ‘no-fly’ list for the Land Cruiser FJ.
Australia closed the door
According to CarExpert, Toyota Australia currently has no plans to launch the Land Cruiser FJ in its current form. The brand’s sales, marketing and franchise operations chief Sean Hanley said that the issue is not about price or positioning, but about emissions compliance. The 2.7-litre petrol engine used in the FJ does not meet Australia’s Euro 6 emissions regulations. Haley clearly said that this car was made mainly for Asian markets, where the rules are a little less strict. For this reason he said that in the current specification the FJ is a ‘no-go zone’ for Australia.
engine
Old engine, new rules The reason for the limited availability of the Land Cruiser FJ is its 2TR-FE 2.7-litre petrol engine. This four-cylinder engine has been used in many generations of Toyota models like Hilux Surf, Tacoma, Innova, Fortuner, Hiace and Prado. But now times have changed. Some of these models have now been discontinued and this engine is also no longer made according to the strict emission standards that are required in countries like America, Europe and Australia. This is why FJ is out of these markets.
circumstances may change
Still, there is hope that the situation may change if Toyota gives the FJ a new, cleaner engine. According to Haley, the arrival of Euro 6 compliant powertrain could open the way for those markets which have currently kept it out. For now, the Land Cruiser FJ will remain outside the borders of countries where emission regulations are more stringent.
