This is how Toyota fights vehicle theft in Australia

MANILA: Toyota is addressing the issue of vehicle theft in Australia with “enhanced security” on several models to provide owners with “even greater peace of mind.” 

The said features, although not discussed, could act complementary to the safety and advanced driver-assist systems its vehicles are equipped with. 

“Toyota is committed to continuously improving vehicle security and has progressively introduced advanced protective measures across its range,” Toyota Australia wrote in a press release. 

“Toyota Australia strongly supports the banning of devices used for criminal activities and the regulating of legitimate devices used by locksmiths, mechanics, and other automotive professionals,” it added. 

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Possible targets 

Toyota Australia did not specify which from its lineup were among the vehicles most targeted by thieves.

However, it noted that in 2025, the vehicles that received enhanced security features included “the new Hilux, Land Cruiser 300, and Land Cruiser Prado.

Since Australia is a market that is big on utes, it’s not surprising that the above models are some of the most sought-after rides by perpetrators. 

New Hilux 

Not too long ago, Toyota Motor Company released a new version of its popular pickup truck, the Hilux. 

Zigwheels Philippines even added the latest iteration of the nameplates to the top vehicles our editorial team would like to see in 2026, given that it is currently available in our neighbor, Thailand. 

There, it is sold either in a 2.8-liter turbodiesel, a 2.8-liter turbodiesel mild hybrid, or a dual motor all-electric variant, effectively offering segment-wide powertrain options and furthering Toyota Motor Company’s efforts in its multi-pathway approach to sustainability. 

Outside, it boasts modern appointments and design, like a more angular front fascia, sharper-looking claddings, robust wheels, and a step insert on the rear side of the bed, much like those found on the Ford Ranger Wildtrak. 

The cabin is also modern with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and plenty of buttons. 

Land Cruiser 300 

There’s no denying that the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 is, in fact, a handsome car. 

The nameplate is even considered by some to be legendary due to its roots and presence in political, humanitarian, peacekeeping (and warmongering) theatres, thought of as the vehicle of choice by both good and bad actors. 

In the Philippines, it is sold as a single variant and is powered by a 3.4-liter diesel mill mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. 

Notable is its boxy, but elegant exterior with LED illumination, aerodynamic mudguards, load-bearing roof rails, clearance lamps, rear spoiler, and a moon roof. Bolstering its already noticeable road presence is a set of 20-inch alloy wheels with 265/55 series tires. 

Inside, the Philippine-spec Toyota Land Cruiser 300 packs leather upholstery, a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, and a 12.3-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a wireless charger. 

Land Cruiser Prado 

Like the Toyota Land Cruiser 300, we too have the Land Cruiser Prado. Because it is considered the smaller brother of the former, the latter has become the choice of many Filipino celebrities and athletes who want to stand out not only on stage, but also on the road. 

Examples include 2024 Paris Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo and Goin Bulilit alumni Sharlene San Pedro. 

Locally, the Toyota LandCruiser Prado is fitted with a 2.3-liter gasoline powerplant with an eight-speed automatic transmission. 

Outside, it follows the boxy dimensions native to the nameplate with LED illumination, a pair of robust roof rails, a moon roof, and a set of 20-inch alloy wheels shod in 265/60 series tires. 

The cabin is bedecked with a 12.3-inch meter cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment system also with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a dual-zone climate control system. 

Further efforts to combat theft 

Toyota Australia also said that it is “developing factory-approved genuine accessories, including an additional immobilizer,” to combat theft. 

“Further updates will be announced as soon as possible,” it added. 

In addition, Toyota worked closely with the police departments of Victoria and Queensland in Australia to combat the increasing cases of vehicle theft. 

Per the Japanese carmaker’s subsidiary from the Land Downunder, organized criminal groups in the country appear to have imported sophisticated, and often costly, technologies to facilitate theft, which has resulted in the rise of stolen vehicles being reported across Australia. 

Together, they have identified the said devices and implemented security enhancements to counter their effectiveness. 

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