A Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series seller received backlash on social media for taking extreme measures to increase the value of a new vehicle. The seller had a 2024 LandCruiser V8 ute towed to his garage immediately after delivery, with only 28km on the odometer, intending to keep it that way until sold. The seller justified this action by claiming it would be a good investment, as the V8 model was the last of its kind and in high demand.
Despite the original retail price of around $83,500, the seller listed the LandCruiser V8 for $117,000, potentially making an extra $33,500 if a buyer is willing to pay the inflated price. This move sparked controversy on social media platforms like Reddit, where users criticized the seller for attempting to profit from the limited availability of the vehicle.
Some Reddit users defended the seller’s actions, arguing that it was an opportunity to make a significant profit with minimal effort. Others blamed buyers who support this kind of resale activity for perpetuating the issue. While this particular seller faced criticism, many other sellers have also listed 2024 LandCruiser 70 Series V8s at similarly high prices, taking advantage of the model’s discontinuation.
Toyota Australia recently announced the discontinuation of the V8 engine in the LandCruiser 70 Series lineup due to changing regulations and community expectations. The decision to end the V8 variant was a strategic move by the company, influenced by environmental concerns and long-term planning. While Toyota cannot control the resale prices set by sellers, they are committed to preventing dealerships from inflating prices on exclusive models like the final V8 LandCruisers.
In response to the growing demand and potential price gouging, Toyota’s leadership is implementing strong measures to address these issues and ensure fair practices within the industry. Despite the controversy surrounding the resale of the LandCruiser V8, the decision to discontinue the model reflects Toyota’s commitment to adapting to changing market conditions and consumer expectations.
Ethan Cardinal, a journalist with a background in fashion writing, explores the intersection of automotive, lifestyle, and culture. His work delves into the impact of cars on various industries and their significance to both casual readers and car enthusiasts. Through his reporting, Ethan aims to uncover the deeper connections between cars and society, shedding light on the complexities of the automotive world.