By Jordan Grim
Toyota has officially revived the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ, marking the return of a classic off-roader for a new generation. The model, revealed ahead of its 2026 launch, brings back the spirit of the iconic Toyota FJ Cruiser while introducing a more modern and compact interpretation of the legendary Land Cruiser lineup.
The new Toyota Land Cruiser FJ serves as the entry point to Toyota’s off-road family. Designed to attract younger buyers and expand the brand’s reach, it’s positioned as a direct competitor to the Land Rover Defender 90.
Despite its smaller size, Toyota promises the FJ will carry the same toughness and reliability that define the Land Cruiser heritage.
Chief Branding Officer Simon Humphries described the model as offering “a minimal footprint with a new dimension in driving performance and maneuverability.” Measuring 4575mm long, 1855mm wide, and 1960mm tall, it closely mirrors the dimensions of the Defender 90. The shorter wheelbase—270mm less than the Land Cruiser 250—helps improve turning radius and agility.
Under the hood, the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ runs on a 2.7-liter petrol engine that produces 161 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission sending power to all four wheels.
While Toyota has yet to release complete specs, the company claims the FJ matches the Land Cruiser 250 in ground clearance and approach angles, with a tight 5.5-meter turning circle.
This combination makes the FJ both capable and easy to maneuver—ideal for daily driving or rugged adventures. Toyota’s engineers designed it to be “lean but strong,” emphasizing performance over excess.
Visually, the Toyota FJ Cruiser influence is clear. The new FJ’s design showcases bold lines, flared arches, and robust bumpers that can be swapped out or replaced for personalization and easy repairs.
Toyota is promoting customization as a major appeal for this model. Buyers will be able to choose from features like round headlights, optional snorkels, and interchangeable cargo panels.
Inside, the cabin follows the clean and functional approach seen in the Land Cruiser 250. It includes a large 12.5-inch touchscreen flanked by physical buttons for key controls, blending digital convenience with traditional usability.
Production of the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ will take place in Thailand, with sales beginning in Japan by mid-2026. Chief engineer Masaya Uchiyama confirmed that the first rollout will target markets in Asia, Africa, South America, and the Middle East.
Currently, there are no official plans for the FJ to reach the U.S. or Europe, though Toyota’s evolving strategy could change that in the future.
While the European version may require a hybrid or diesel option to meet emissions standards, Toyota hasn’t ruled out expanding the lineup. The company has hinted that additional Land Cruiser variants are in development, signaling a broader revival of the brand’s off-road identity.
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ brings back a beloved name with a practical and purpose-built design. Compact but powerful, it blends nostalgia with modern off-road technology. Even if the U.S. doesn’t get it immediately, the new FJ shows Toyota’s commitment to keeping its Land Cruiser legacy alive for the next generation.