By Jordan Grim • October 21, 2025 • 04:47 PM (ET)
By Jordan Grim • October 21, 2025 • 04:47 PM (ET)
After years of rumors and leaks, Toyota has officially revealed the new Land Cruiser FJ, a smaller SUV designed to capture the spirit of the original Land Cruiser in a modern, compact form. Set to launch in mid-2026, the new FJ is built for adventure but won’t be available in the United States, at least for now.
The new model builds on the IMV platform, shared with the Hilux and Fortuner, promising the durability and reliability that Toyota owners expect. Power comes from a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine producing 161 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a part-time 4WD system.
From the outside, the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ is a nod to the brand’s heritage. Two front-end designs will be available: one with circular headlights for a classic look and another with rectangular lights and C-shaped DRLs for a more modern appearance. Both designs are completed with a simple grille that proudly spells out “Toyota.”
Below, plastic bumpers differ slightly between the two versions but share a rugged off-road character. Along the sides, bold fender flares and heavy cladding reinforce the SUV’s tough stance, while the squared-off roofline and massive rear pillar echo the iconic Land Cruiser silhouette.
Interestingly, Toyota has added removable front and rear corner bumpers, making it easier for owners to replace damaged parts after off-road use. The automaker will also offer optional accessories such as rock rails, roof racks, raised air intakes, and MOLLE panels that can even mount inside the tailgate.
At 180.1 inches long, 73 inches wide, and 77.2 inches tall, the Toyota FJ is slightly larger than a Corolla Cross but smaller than the standard Land Cruiser. Its 101.6-inch wheelbase gives it compact maneuverability while maintaining the brand’s trademark off-road presence.
For perspective, the Land Cruiser FJ is 4.5 inches longer than the Corolla Cross but 13.7 inches shorter than the full-size Land Cruiser. The shorter wheelbase also enhances agility on tighter trails while still offering space for five passengers.
Inside, the new Toyota Land Cruiser FJ continues its rugged-meets-modern design theme. The dashboard features a digital instrument cluster paired with a wide infotainment display that supports the latest Toyota interface.
The layout emphasizes practicality, with large knobs and buttons for climate and off-road controls. A chunky gear shifter, a set of terrain-focused switches, and durable plastic surfaces highlight the SUV’s utilitarian intent.
The two-row layout offers seating for five, though rear-seat space appears tight. Toyota hinted that the second row may slide forward or backward, offering some flexibility for cargo and passengers. As expected, the Toyota Safety Sense suite comes standard, including key driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, and pre-collision warning.
Underneath, the Land Cruiser FJ rides on the same ladder-frame chassis as the Hilux pickup. The setup ensures the SUV delivers real off-road capability rather than just appearance.
The 2.7-liter 2TR-FE gasoline engine sends 161 horsepower through a six-speed Super ECT automatic transmission. With its part-time four-wheel-drive system, the SUV is expected to deliver balanced on-road comfort and solid traction over rough terrain.
While it doesn’t aim to compete with the larger Land Cruiser 250, the FJ’s lightweight design should make it a capable adventure vehicle in its own right.
Toyota says the Land Cruiser FJ is designed for buyers seeking simplicity, reliability, and the thrill of exploration. Its smaller footprint and lighter frame make it ideal for narrow trails and weekend adventures, while still carrying the rugged DNA that defines the Toyota Land Cruiser name.
The automaker is also emphasizing customization, offering factory accessories to suit different lifestyles — from roof-mounted ARB platforms to utility panels for gear organization. This aligns with Toyota’s growing effort to appeal to younger, outdoor-focused drivers who value authenticity over luxury.
Despite strong interest, Toyota confirmed that the Land Cruiser FJ will not be sold in the United States, at least at launch. A company spokesperson told Carscoops, “There are currently no plans to bring this vehicle to the North American market.”
That decision will disappoint many fans who still remember the beloved FJ Cruiser, which left the U.S. market a decade ago but maintains a loyal following. However, Toyota’s renewed global focus on heritage-inspired SUVs like the Land Cruiser 250 suggests that plans could change in the future.
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ represents a modern revival of the brand’s core values — durability, simplicity, and adventure. It combines a nostalgic look with practical engineering, offering a fresh take on what made the original FJ so admired.
Even though the U.S. won’t get this version right away, the FJ reinforces Toyota’s direction toward building purpose-driven vehicles that honor its off-road legacy. For many enthusiasts, that’s reason enough to keep watching — and hoping this “baby Land Cruiser” eventually makes its way across the Pacific