The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ prototype is here, bringing the rugged DNA of the Land Cruiser series into a smaller, more accessible body. With dimensions under 4.6 m, a durable body-on-frame architecture, and a proven 163 PS 2.7-litre petrol powertrain, this “baby Land Cruiser” promises freedom and adventure in a compact footprint.
Its global debut is scheduled for the Japan Mobility Show 2025, with sales starting in mid-2026. This compact off-road SUV is set to redefine purposeful luxury.
A Legendary Nameplate Reimagined
The Land Cruiser name has long stood for go-anywhere capability, durability, and expedition readiness. With the FJ model, Toyota aims to retain that ethos while making it more accessible. The “FJ” reportedly stands for Freedom & Joy, emphasizing its purposeful yet fun character, echoing the spirit of the original Land Cruiser models.
By creating a smaller Land Cruiser, Toyota broadens its appeal-offering adventure-ready luxury for buyers who may not need a full-sized 300 Series but still demand the badge, the build, and the capability of a true Land Cruiser FJ.
What You Need to Know: Key Highlights (Dimensions, Platform & Capability)
Compact Yet Purpose-Built
The FJ prototype confirms its agile, compact size:
- Length: 4,575 mm
- Width: 1,855 mm
- Height: 1,960 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,580 mm
The Land Cruiser FJ utilizes a body-on-frame construction based on the proven IMV platform (shared with the Hilux and Fortuner). This architecture, coupled with significant underbody bracing, ensures improved rigidity and off-road capability akin to larger Land Cruisers. Crucially for serious terrain, it boasts an impressive approach angle of ~31° and generous ground clearance.
Rugged Styling & Customisation
The design is unequivocally rugged and functional:
- Classic boxy silhouette, pronounced wheel arches, thick black cladding, and a tail-gate mounted spare wheel.
- Adaptive styling options are available, including a round-headlight variant that pays homage to retro cues.
- Modular bumpers: The corners are removable, which allows for easier damage-repair and customisation practical hint at its real off-road purpose.
Interior & Feature Set
The cabin prioritizes durability and function over soft luxury.
- A practical 5-seater layout with a usable interior, featuring a large central touchscreen and a simple digital cluster.
- The design emphasizes off-road friendly utility with large grab-handles, a physical gear selector, and hard-wearing materials.
- Safety: The Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) Level 2 ADAS suite is anticipated, along with a full array of active assist features.
Powertrain & Drivetrain: The 2.7L Petrol Engine Details
The focus is on reliability and simplicity for global rugged applications:
- Engine: 2.7-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine (2TR-FE).
- Output: 163 PS (120 kW)
- Torque: 246 Nm
- Drivetrain: Mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission and a part-time 4WD system.
Despite the size reduction and modest naturally aspirated power, Toyota confirms the architecture delivers serious off-road credentials, including wheel articulation comparable to the legendary Land Cruiser 70 Series.
Why This Matters for India & Luxury Off-Road Buyers
Many Indian buyers crave luxury coupled with true capability. The compact Land Cruiser FJ promises unexpected versatility-a luxury badge, strong off-road DNA, yet a more urban and manageable size.
- Positioning: Import duties and positioning will be key. While not confirmed for India yet, anticipation is high given the strong demand for premium 4×4 rugged vehicles like the Land Rover Defender and Jeep Wrangler.
- Second Vehicle Appeal: For luxury buyers, the FJ could become an ideal second vehicle: less unwieldy than a full-size SUV, and offering more character and off-road cred than a typical premium crossover.
- Global Trend: The global trend is clear: niche premium off-road models are gaining traction, and India is increasingly in that consideration set.
Things to Keep in Mind (Price, Availability, and Servicing)
- Launch Timeline: While globally expected mid-2026, the specific Indian market arrival is not yet confirmed-buyers must await official announcements.
- Price Expectations: Given the premium underpinnings, the Land Cruiser badge, and likely imported components, pricing will reflect exclusivity and a premium positioning in the market.
- Servicing and Parts: As a body-on-frame 4×4 with specialized off-road components, prospective buyers must ensure that Toyota’s service infrastructure is established to support specialized spares and maintenance.
- Usage Profile: The FJ is best suited for buyers who genuinely want off-road credibility, not just SUV prestige-they will be the ones who truly appreciate the modular bumpers, strong clearance, and rugged build.
Final Verdict & Next Steps
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ prototype signals a bold and smart expansion of the Land Cruiser family-bringing luxe off-road character into a more compact form. For Indian luxury buyers seeking adventure, uniqueness, capability, and brand heritage in one package, the FJ is definitely worth watching.
If Toyota indeed brings it to our market, it won’t be just another SUV-it will be a statement of purposeful luxury and a genuine off-road tool.
👉 Stay with Motozite for updates on Indian launch date, pricing, bookings, and detailed specs as they roll out.