After months of rumors and a series of “leaks“ that have fired the imagination of car fans, the Japanese manufacturer Toyota has finally lifted the curtain! Before us stands the new generation of the Land Cruiser FJ. Although compact in size, this SUV exudes real self-confidence and is ready to take on the 70-year legacy of the model. Its world premiere is scheduled for the Japan Mobility Show 2025 in the heart of Tokyo, and its path to showrooms is planned for mid-2026.
Exterior
The Land Cruiser FJ is not just a scaled-down copy of its bigger brothers - the 300 or 250 series. On the contrary, it proudly declares its own look - light, agile and maximally practical, but at the same time a true Land Cruiser to the core. The design is both strict and eye-catching. The rectangular stance, clean lines, muscular wheel arches and massive bumpers create a feeling of indestructible strength. The square cabin is designed with a masterful thought for the interior space, which is a sacred priority for each generation of Land Cruiser.
The Japanese give freedom of choice regarding the frontal vision. Two headlight options are offered, each of which nods to a different era. The classic version with round lights is a tribute to the glorious past, while the modern interpretation with rectangular LED optics and C-shaped daytime running lights adds a futuristic touch. Both versions are crowned with a branded grille with the inscription "Toyota" and powerful plastic bumpers, which can be easily replaced in the event of a "meeting" with difficult terrain – an ingenious solution that makes repairs and customization easier.
The side silhouette is marked by expressive lines and impressive fenders that emphasize the off-road character of the machine. The rear is aesthetically completed by the spare tire mounted on the door – a mandatory element for any classic SUV, and the C-shaped taillights add style and recognition. Toyota has opened the doors wide for accessories and modifications – from additional equipment for conquering impassable places to MOLLE fasteners on the rear doors for clever organization of camping equipment. Practicality? There it is!
Despite its more modest dimensions - 4,575 mm long and 2,580 mm wheelbase - the Land Cruiser FJ retains the DNA of the legendary model. For a better idea - it is one point longer than the Corolla Cross, but significantly shorter than the Land Cruiser 250. The short wheelbase is the golden key to incredible maneuverability - the minimum turning radius is only 5.5 meters, making it agile as a deer even on narrow mountain paths or in a crowded city.
Interior
The interior is an example of Toyota traditions - clean, thoughtful and focused on functionality. The driver is greeted by a massive steering wheel, a digital instrument panel and a large multimedia screen. The controls are intuitively grouped so that attention can remain on the road. The center console hosts a convenient gear lever and switches for off-road modes. The performance is sustained in the practical style of Toyota SUVs, with plastic surfaces ensuring long-lasting durability. The Toyota Safety Sense security system is armed with the latest assistants, including collision warning.
Engines and platform
Under the skin of the Land Cruiser FJ lies the time-proven IMV platform, shared with the Hilux and Fortuner. It guarantees high rigidity and unshakable reliability of the body. The heart of the machine is a 2.7-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine (2TR-FE), which generates 163 horsepower and 246 Nm of torque. It works in harmonious tandem with a six-speed Super ECT automatic transmission and engageable all-wheel drive. Engineers have refined the suspension, chassis and geometry to perfection to achieve true "Land Cruiser-ness" – optimal balance between durability, stability and cross-country ability.
After countless off-road tests, the FJ demonstrates impressive wheel articulation and excellent cross-country ability. The shorter wheelbase gives it an advantage and makes it a master of maneuvers not only in challenging mountain areas, but also in the urban jungle. Toyota states that the Land Cruiser FJ is designed to give freedom and joy of driving in all conditions.