FINALLY: Toyota Land Cruiser FJ Officially Debuts In Two Flavors

The FJ Is Back—Officially

We’ve lost track of how many times the rumor mill churned out news about the return of the FJ Cruiser. It’s been teased, speculated on, and rendered countless times, but the final rumor was right – the FJ Cruiser is back. Toyota has officially announced the Land Cruiser FJ, a smaller and more lifestyle-focused off-roader that joins the growing Land Cruiser family. Just like the US-spec Land Cruiser 250 (also known as the Prado in other markets), the new FJ brings the same spirit of reliability and adventure, only in a tighter, more agile package.

Just like the American Land Cruiser, the returning Land Cruiser FJ will come in two flavors, though Toyota has yet to provide a detailed distinction between the two beyond the visually obvious. It’s scheduled for a Japan launch around mid-2026, but the prototype will first be shown to the public at the Japan Mobility Show 2025.

This addition broadens Toyota’s Land Cruiser lineup, which now includes the luxurious 300 Series, the utilitarian 70 Series, and the core 250 Series that revived the brand’s original “simple and sturdy” values. The Land Cruiser FJ slides in as the compact, fun-loving member – one that emphasizes freedom, joy, and accessibility, without straying from the durability the nameplate is known for.

Familiar Shape, Fresh Proportions

Visually, the Land Cruiser FJ embraces the classic Land Cruiser cues and reinterprets them for the modern era. It has a square silhouette with available round headlights and short overhangs as clear nods to the beloved FJ Cruiser of the 2000s, while the rectangular body and chamfered edges create a robust, confident look. The FJ’s bumpers are modular and removable, allowing owners to replace only damaged sections – aimed at both practicality and customization. The wide fenders and upright stance give it a strong sense of stability, while design touches like MOLLE panels from the Lunar Cruiser allow users to attach gear and equipment for camping or overlanding.

Dimensionally, the FJ measures 180.1 inches long, 73 inches wide, and 77.2 inches tall, with a 101.6-inch wheelbase. That makes it as wide as a Toyota RAV4, but taller and slightly longer, emphasizing its off-road intent while maintaining manageable proportions for urban driving.

Inside, the 5-seater cabin follows a horizontal layout that improves situational awareness, especially when navigating uneven terrain. A low-set dash and beltline boost visibility, while large knobs and buttons make controls easier to use even with gloves on.

Toyota Safety Sense comes standard, including features like the Pre-Collision Safety System, further improving driver confidence. The cabin, though rugged, is functional and well thought out.

Built To Go Anywhere

Underneath, the Land Cruiser FJ rides on the IMV platform, the same one used by the Toyota Hilux Champ sold across Southeast Asia. This gives it a solid underpinning rooted in proven truck-based architecture, ensuring durability and off-road capability. Toyota says the platform was refined for better ground clearance, wheel articulation, and stability, with chassis bracing under the floor for added rigidity.

Power comes from the 2TR-FE 2.7-liter gasoline engine, delivering 161 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed Super ECT automatic transmission and part-time four-wheel drive. The setup favors mechanical simplicity and serviceability. Its short wheelbase also helps improve maneuverability, achieving a 5.5-meter turning radius, making it nimble even in tight off-road environments.

Toyota has tested the FJ extensively in rough conditions to ensure it maintains the “Land Cruiser-ness” that defines the badge. It’s designed to be easy to repair, easy to modify, and built to last.

Apart from the vehicle itself, Toyota also teased the Land Hopper from 2023, a compact electric mobility scooter that fits inside the FJ’s cargo area. It’s meant to extend exploration beyond where the SUV can reach, allowing owners to tackle trails and unpaved paths after parking.

Toyota will show the Land Cruiser FJ prototype at the Japan Mobility Show 2025, running from October 30 to November 9 at Tokyo Big Sight. We’ll be there to see it in person and report how Toyota’s newest off-roader blends nostalgia, utility, and modern-day practicality.

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