Can You Still Buy the Land Cruiser After Its Discontinuation?
4 Answers
Toyota Land Cruiser has ceased sales in the domestic market, but it is still available for purchase—just not in the Chinese market, as only imported vehicles can be bought. Reasons for the Land Cruiser's discontinuation: 1. High production costs: The Land Cruiser is a high-performance off-road vehicle launched by Toyota. This model has been discontinued in the Chinese market because it requires a dedicated production line, resulting in high costs that drive up the selling price, placing it at a disadvantage among vehicles in the same class. Additionally, the squeeze from parallel imports has led to sluggish sales of the Land Cruiser, prompting its discontinuation in the domestic market. 2. Road limitations: As a large off-road vehicle, the Land Cruiser is bulky and primarily suited for off-road use, making it highly unsuitable for urban roads. Driving in urban areas is inconvenient due to its large turning radius, making both turning and parking extremely difficult. Since the model has been discontinued in the Chinese market, most Land Cruisers seen on the market are imported versions, with the Middle Eastern version being the most common. Its durability, reliability, and off-road capabilities have made this vehicle a world-class SUV.
Recently in the car community, I found that although the new Land Cruiser has been discontinued, you can still try your luck at dealerships. Toyota stores might still have new inventory—I saw a friend buy the last 2022 model half a year ago at full price, but at least it was brand new. Don’t just look locally; try parallel import channels. Many companies can source Middle East versions, and though they’re pricier after tariffs, you can get one legally if the paperwork is proper. With the internet being so convenient now, check dealer inventory on Autohome or Dongchedi, and call to confirm the production date and warranty policy. Be cautious with long-stocked cars as their batteries might have aged. Act fast—after all, it’s a case of 'one sold, one fewer left.' Wait too long, and you might really miss out.
My decade-long experience with Toyota cars tells you that discontinuation doesn't mean unavailability - the used car market is a treasure trove. On platforms like Guazi or Renrenche, you can often find second-hand Land Cruisers listed, with model years ranging from 2015 to 2020 at more than half the original price. Last time I helped a neighbor find a 2018 model in top condition - rust-free and unscratched chassis, with low mileage and good maintenance records. Before buying, always take a knowledgeable friend for a test drive and check accident history plus maintenance records to avoid pitfalls. Don't worry about parts either - Toyota's supply chain is rock solid with complete spare parts available at dealers, and even DIY oil changes are straightforward.
Parallel import channels can help you get a brand new Land Cruiser. Many import car companies specialize in this business. They directly source original vehicles from Japan or the Middle East, with taxes and fees adding up to about 20% more than domestic versions, but you'll get a genuine new car without issues. Make sure to use a reliable intermediary for the procedures—don't cut corners with gray-market channels. Be clear about the costs; if your budget allows, go for a new car, while used cars are better for those who want to be more budget-conscious. There might be some differences in after-sales warranty, as authorized 4S shops may not cover imported cars, so it's crucial to sign an agreement in advance to avoid future hassles.
