The Ultimate Vehicle: Why Land Cruiser Tops the Charts as Japan’s Most Stolen Car

Notably, 9 out of the top 10 most stolen vehicles belong to the domestic brands Toyota and Lexus. This highlights the preference of criminals for Japanese-made vehicles, especially high-end models that are in high demand and fetch a high price on the black market.

According to the latest data from Japan’s National Police Agency (NPA), not only has the Toyota Land Cruiser retained its top position, but there has also been a significant increase in the number of stolen vehicles compared to the same period in 2024. If this trend continues, the number of stolen Land Cruisers for the full year of 2025 could surpass 1,000, an unprecedented figure.

Land Cruiser – Toyota’s large SUV, has long been a target for criminals in Japan due to its high value, durability, and ease of resale on the black market, especially in developing countries. This includes models such as the Land Cruiser 300, Prado (250 Series), and the classic 70 series, all of which are sought-after by thieves. Experts believe that the modern 300 series likely accounts for a significant portion of the thefts due to its high value and advanced technology, making it attractive for illegal export.

Meanwhile, the Toyota Prius, the company’s prominent hybrid model, ranks second with 289 reported thefts. This vehicle is popular in Japan not only for its fuel efficiency but also for its smooth and quiet ride. According to a report by Creative Trend, criminals often use the Prius as a getaway vehicle because it can move silently at night, evading detection by both citizens and law enforcement.

Along with the Land Cruiser and Prius, the list includes other familiar Toyota and Lexus models such as the Alphard (191 cases), Crown (107 cases), Lexus LX (120 cases), and Lexus RX, NX, and ES. Interestingly, the Suzuki Carry is the only non-Toyota group vehicle in the top 10, ranking last.

The diversity of the list, ranging from minivans like the Alphard to sedans like the Crown and luxury SUVs like the Lexus LX, indicates that thieves are not solely targeting one specific segment. They are willing to steal a variety of vehicles as long as they have a high value, are in demand, or can be used for illegal cargo transportation.

Despite modern vehicles being equipped with advanced anti-theft systems, the reality is that these measures have not been enough to deter criminals. Some experts suggest that car theft rings are becoming increasingly sophisticated, using electronic devices to unlock cars without keys or disable tracking systems.

To combat this issue, Japanese authorities recommend vehicle owners implement multiple security measures. These include installing additional alarm systems, mechanical steering wheel locks, GPS tracking devices, and using coveralls to prevent remote identification of the vehicle. Additionally, parking in guarded and monitored lots is encouraged, especially for expensive vehicles.

TH (Tuoitrethudo)