Toyota just took the wraps off the new Land Cruiser FJ in Japan, and it’s everything that fans of the badge have been asking for, except it won’t be coming to the United States. The Land Cruiser FJ, or “Rankle FJ” as Toyota calls it internally, will join the existing Land Cruiser lineup as the most compact model, positioned below the flagship 300 Series, the rugged 70 Series, and the 250 Series intorduced in 2024. Think of it as the spiritual successor to the FJ Cruiser, but smaller, simpler, and more globally focused.
The FJ rides on Toyota’s IMV (Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle) platform. It’s a proven ladder-frame setup designed for emerging markets, known for its strength and easy repairability. It is also used by the legendary Hilux pickup. At 180.1 inches long, 77.2 inches wide, and 73 inches tall, this new FJ chops nearly a foot off the Land Cruiser 250’s length while keeping the signature upright stance.
Under the hood sits a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 161 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent through a six-speed automatic to a part-time four-wheel-drive system with high and low range (H2, H4, and L4 modes) and a locking rear differential. Since the FJ is about 440 pounds lighter than the 250, around 4,490 pounds total, expect slightly better efficiency and off-road agility.
The FJ employs a double-wishbone front suspension and trailing-link rear axle, a simple and reliable formula for rough roads. The short wheelbase and generous wheel articulation mean it should claw its way up trails with ease. Approach and departure angles are said to hover around 30 and 20 degrees, respectively. Toyota claims that the capability is on par with the Land Cruiser 70 Series, which is, in itself, a tried-and-tested formula since 1984, that continues to remain in production with availability in select markets.
Visually, you’ll notice the old-school design cues right away, from the round headlights to the rear-mounted spare and squared-off boxy proportions reminiscent of vintage Land Cruisers. Everything about this SUV screams utility. The bumpers are modular and removable, so when you scrape a rock, you replace only the damaged section. Optional accessories include a snorkel, steel skid plates, and heavy-duty roof-rails. Inside, you get a simple, functional cabin. Big gear selector, chunky dashboard, durable surfaces you can hose down if you need to.
Alongside the FJ Cruiser, Toyota also previewed the Land Hopper, a small electric exploration vehicle. As for the Land Cruiser FJ, it will make its public debut at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show before its mid-2026 launch. Toyota says there are no plans for U.S. sales, as it doesn’t have to comply with Western safety and emissions norms. It is precisely the reason why the popular Suzuki Jimny also isn’t available Stateside. However, history suggests otherwise.
The original FJ Cruiser that launched two decades ago in 2006 was driven by North American demand, and the market for rugged compact off-roaders, while niche, does exist. In a market that was otherwise dominated by the Jeep Wrangler, Ford demonstrated this with its modern-day Bronco, while Land Rover offers a two-door 90 Series Defender.
Images: Toyota
