India’s First Toyota Fortuner Converted to Land Cruiser LC300: The Ultimate SUV Transformation

By Muskan Kumari

Published on:

Toyota

In India, Toyota Fortuner has built a reputation for being the most rugged yet luxurious SUV in its segment. But what happens when an owner dreams of the mighty Land Cruiser LC300, Toyota’s global flagship, but wants to hold on to the Fortuner’s practicality and price?

The answer is here — India’s first Fortuner to LC300 conversion. A skilled customization shop has transformed the exterior of a Fortuner to match the look of the legendary Land Cruiser LC300. And the result? A head-turning SUV that screams power, presence, and prestige.

In this blog, we explore:

  • The details of the conversion
  • Key visual changes
  • Cost estimates
  • What remains unchanged
  • Why this trend is catching on

🛠️ What Is the Toyota LC300?

The Toyota Land Cruiser LC300 is the latest iteration of the legendary Land Cruiser line — known for its global off-roading legacy and unmatched durability. It’s a full-size luxury SUV that comes with:

  • A new TNGA-F platform
  • Twin-turbo V6 engine
  • Premium interiors
  • Toyota Safety Sense suite
  • Worldwide acclaim as a status symbol

However, the LC300 comes with a hefty price tag of over ₹2 crore in India (CBU). This puts it out of reach for most SUV buyers.

That’s where this Fortuner-to-LC300 conversion enters as a creative alternative.


🚘 Fortuner-to-LC300: What’s Been Changed?

The conversion focuses mainly on the exterior styling of the Fortuner. The aim is to recreate the bold, muscular presence of the LC300 without tampering with the Fortuner’s engine or chassis.

Major Exterior Upgrades:

Part ReplacedOld (Fortuner)New (LC300 Style)
Front GrilleChrome HorizontalLC300 Signature Gloss Black Mesh
HeadlampsStock FortunerLC300-Inspired LED DRLs
Front BumperSlim & SportyBoxy and Bold LC300 Replica
BonnetCurvedRaised and Squared-Off
Fender FlaresSleekMuscular LC300 Style
Rear BumperBasic FortunerLC300-Inspired with Skid Plate
Tail LampsOEM LEDsRedesigned with Black Housing
Alloys18-inch stock20-inch Multi-Spoke LC Wheels

🔧 Customization shops used fiber or ABS plastic body kits that closely match LC300 dimensions. The panels are retrofitted to existing mounts without major body cuts, preserving the car’s integrity.


🖼️ Interior Changes – Mostly Stock

While the exterior transformation is jaw-dropping, the interior remains largely unchanged. The Fortuner’s cabin is still premium with features like:

  • Ventilated seats
  • Connected infotainment
  • 2nd-row AC vents
  • Leatherette upholstery

However, some modders also choose to upgrade:

  • Steering wheel with LC300 logo
  • Custom ambient lighting
  • Wood inserts on dash and doors
  • Digital instrument cluster swap (optional)

🟢 Overall, it’s an exterior-focused makeover, keeping the mechanical and electrical systems stock for long-term reliability.


💰 Cost of Conversion in India

Such conversions require:

  • A skilled team
  • High-quality body kits (imported or Indian-made)
  • Paint and fitting expertise
  • Road compliance awareness

Estimated Cost Breakdown:

ComponentApproximate Price
Full Body Kit (Front + Rear)₹1.5 – ₹2.5 lakh
Custom Paint & Labor₹50,000 – ₹1 lakh
Alloy Wheels (Optional)₹1 – ₹2 lakh
Badging, DRLs, Detailing₹30,000 – ₹50,000

🟢 Total Estimated Cost: ₹3.5 – ₹6 lakh (depending on customization level)

Considering the LC300 costs over ₹2 crore, this is a fractional investment for a bold visual upgrade.


⚖️ Pros & Cons of the Conversion

✅ Pros:

  • Premium road presence
  • Head-turning design
  • Affordable alternative to LC300
  • Retains Fortuner’s reliability & serviceability

❌ Cons:

  • No change in performance
  • Not an official Toyota upgrade
  • Possible RTO compliance issues (if not declared)
  • Insurance challenges in case of accidental damage

🟢 Always ensure mods are done legally, and your insurer is informed about cosmetic changes.


📸 Why Are Indians Doing These Conversions?

India has a massive fan base for SUVs with road dominance. The LC300 is the ultimate dream, but with restricted availability and high import duty, enthusiasts turn to the next best option — Fortuner conversions.

Reasons why this trend is growing:

  • Custom shops have become more skilled
  • Buyers want unique vehicles that stand out
  • Fortuner is already a large, rugged base platform
  • The LC300’s design is aspirational

🟢 As a result, you’ll see more such transformations in metro cities, especially among car enthusiasts.


📌 Things to Keep in Mind Before Modifying

If you’re inspired by this conversion, consider the following:

  1. Choose reputed modification garages
  2. Avoid altering the chassis or engine
  3. Use RTO-approved body kits
  4. Check with your insurance provider first
  5. Keep original parts in case of resale

Modding should enhance your car’s personality — not compromise on safety or legality.


🔚 Final Words: An Ambitious Makeover That Works

The Toyota Fortuner-to-LC300 conversion is a brilliant example of automotive creativity in India. It merges ambition with affordability, letting owners feel the pride of owning something that looks like a ₹2 crore Land Cruiser — while paying less than 10% of that price.

For enthusiasts who value design and presence over badge authenticity, this is a smart middle path. It captures the commanding presence of the Land Cruiser LC300 without giving up the Fortuner’s practicality.


Final Summary

  • A Fortuner in India has been successfully converted to look like a Toyota LC300.
  • The transformation includes front grille, bumpers, fenders, and lights to replicate the LC300.
  • The total modification cost is around ₹3.5–₹6 lakh.
  • It retains the Fortuner’s engine, platform, and features, making it a reliable daily driver with premium aesthetics.
  • A growing trend among SUV enthusiasts who admire the LC300 but want something within budget.

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