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Toyota's a large corporation and they make their decisions based on self-interest and profit. If maintaining a broad, extensive and sometimes overlapping product portfolio makes more money than a more limited portfolio, then they'll keep products like the LC and the sequoia together on the showroom floor for as long as the money is rolling in. When its stops, they will adjust accordingly.
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This makes sense if two products overlap competely but with the 200series/Sequioa debate...both vehicle truly market to two different buyer needs. One (200 series) a vehicle that appeals to a true die hard Toyota fan that wants a large size suv, good interior, with tougher ride and frame/chassis components and very good off road capability. The other (Sequioa) a vehicel that appeals to a more people moving family lifestlye type vehicle, boat puller and interior flexibility and function..this buyer is a completely different buyer than the 200 series. IMO.
I think the differences between the 200 series and Sequioa are greater than ever and that I believe is a good thing as it givess buyers more choice compared to GM, FORD, NISSAN etc. Those companies do not offer two top level full size suvs on different platforms with different rear suspension and different interiors, different configurations etc. Not bad for Toyota to have.
You will see a new Sequioa 3rd gen before you see another gen Land cruiser as the LC usually stay around for 9 years.
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that a less overlapping and more limited menu of products will in the end make more money for Toyota
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I think Toyota will further seperate the 200 series and Sequioa. The Sequioa will very likely have a hybrid system very soon and I will put money on the Landcruiser being the first Toyota vehicle (along with Tundra) to offer a Toyota SUV diesel. Landcruiser have been offered with a diesels before I bet money you will see it again. Plus Toyota already has an outstanding 4.5 diesel that is a little to small for the Tundra.
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Unfortunately if future Sequoia buyers are waiting for a redesigned dash, my guess is it'll be at least 2 yrs and possibly 3 as Toyota has to amortize the dash R&D cost of the Tundra/Sequoia over probably several years to get their investment back.
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I doubt Toyota will make any serious change to the interior. They have never really completely revamped an interior in the past and I can see it now.
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think you made a good choice (closing remarks)
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I think this was a great thread debate and should be looked back when someone is bored.