By Steve Laser
Land Cruiser enthusiasts in Japan will soon be able to select from four distinctly different variations of the iconic SUV when Toyota introduces the all-new FJ. Previewed ahead of its public debut at the Japan Mobility Show, the new FJ delivers Land Cruiser style and off-road capabilities in a smaller package.
Toyota brought the current Land Cruiser lineup to welcome the new model to the family, including the flagship 300 Series, midrange 250, and rugged Land Cruiser 70 (left-right in the above second row). Prototypes of the new FJ include a customized version that was described as “overseas” specification, along with the future regular production FJ.
While the new FJ is smaller than the 250 Series, it’s instantly recognizable as a Land Cruiser thanks to the adoption of heritage styling cues. At the front, the FJ wears a horizontal grille with the “TOTOTA” script logo, flanked by LED lighting, and a split bumper.
The side view looks like a shorter 250 merged with the previous FJ Cruiser. The new FJ is treated to bold fender and lower side panel cladding. With a wheelbase 270mm (10.6 in.) shorter than the 250, the FJ has a solid panel, instead of a window, in the D-pillar. The new FJ also features an FJ Cruiser-style exterior-mounted spare tire and side hinged rear door.
FJ rides on Toyota’s IMV platform, shared with the international Hilux pickup and Fortuner SUV. Power is supplied by a 2.7-liter 4-cylinder gas engine, teamed with a 6-speed Super ECT transmission, and part-time 4WD. In addition to generous ground clearance and approach angle, FJ is said to have wheel articulation equivalent to the 70 Series.
The interior looks modern and well-designed, with what appears to be a digital instrument cluster, widescreen infotainment system, console-mounted gearshift, and various buttons and switches to control subsystems.
Land Cruiser FJ features two-row seating for five passengers, and likely has a split-folding rear seat for cargo carrying flexibility. The Toyota Safety Sense package is said to be included, with driver-assist functions featuring a Pre-collision Safety System.
Toyota says the new FJ launch for Japan is “planned for around mid-2026.” There is no word yet regarding additional markets for the latest Land Cruiser.
The Japan Mobility Show replaced the long-running Tokyo Motor Show. General public days are scheduled for Nov. 1-9, at Tokyo Big Sight, in the Ariake district of Koto-ku.
Note: Prototype FJ vehicles are shown in this story. Features, specifications, and launch timing for future Japan market models are subject to change without notice.
News source and photos courtesy of Toyota Motor Corp.
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