This is set to be one of the most interesting vehicles launched this year: After years of rumors and speculation, Toyota revealed the Land Cruiser FJ in Tokyo: An off-road vehicle that references both in name and design the world’s best-selling 4x4 and a retro version previously marketed in the U.S., which even reached Israel through personal import.
The new FJ is built on a ladder frame, a shortened version of the one used by the Hilux pickup. Measuring 4.575 meters long, 1.855 meters wide, 1.96 meters tall, with a wheelbase of 2.58 meters, the prototype is 11 cm longer than the Corolla Cross, 3 cm wider, 30 cm taller, and its wheelbase is 6 cm shorter, resulting in a very short and practical turning radius for off-road and city driving—just 5.5 meters.
At the same time, it is 35 cm shorter than the Land Cruiser 250 and will have only 5 seats in two rows. Toyota has not yet revealed details regarding ground clearance or approach and departure angles.
The design is boxy and rugged, with round retro headlights, immediately highlighting its connection to the off-road vehicle sold since 1951 in 12.15 million units. However, the photos show two slightly different front ends, perhaps hinting at different trim levels.
After the 250 returned to its roots in both design and improved capabilities, Toyota presents the FJ as the successor to the rugged, mass-market Land Cruiser 70. The front and rear corner bumpers are removable and divided into sections, allowing replacement of only damaged parts to improve repairability. They can also be removed ahead of challenging sections where they might hit rocks and other obstacles—a feature that off-road enthusiasts will be happy to see carry over from the prototype to the production model.
Inside, the cabin offers a driver-focused environment with a simple and functional dashboard, a 12.5-inch multimedia screen, physical switches, and active safety systems.
Toyota promises off-road capability at the level of the Land Cruiser 70, which is why it based the new vehicle on an updated platform of the one used by the Hilux, which itself will soon receive a new generation. There is also a wealth of customization options and add-ons.
The gasoline engine is a 2.7-liter unit with 163 hp and 24.6 kg·m of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. This is a classic configuration for Japan or Africa, but to be sold in Europe today, the FJ would need a hybrid unit—a powertrain gaining traction also in the U.S. Toyota has not provided specifics but promises that there will be an “overseas” marketing version, as well as additional variants. Production will take place in Thailand, where the Hilux is also manufactured.
However, according to Automotive News, the FJ will not reach the U.S. or Europe and is intended only for Asian and South American markets. Its dimensions may be too small for the American market, but the decision not to export it to Europe would be a major missed opportunity for us. Public reactions may influence that decision.
The FJ prototype will be unveiled for the first time at the Tokyo Mobility Show at the end of the month.