Toyota's Baby Land Cruiser FJ Has a Retro Look That Will Win You Over | Carscoops

      The new SUV brings back the adventurous essence of the Land Cruiser in a smaller, retro-inspired form.

      Toyota has revealed the Land Cruiser FJ, set to debut in 2026.

      This SUV is equipped with 4WD and features a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine generating 161 hp. It is built on the IMV platform, which is the same foundation for the Hilux and Fortuner models.

      After a lengthy period marked by rumors and speculation, Toyota has officially launched the new Land Cruiser FJ, which will be available in select markets starting mid-2026.

      Also: Toyota Compresses Its Hilux Champion Into a Super Short Wheelbase

      The FJ draws design elements from its larger counterparts, channeling their rugged characteristics into a more compact and playful shape. The outcome is a design that is clearly Land Cruiser but delightfully downsized.

      At the front, there are two distinct facades reminiscent of the Land Cruiser. One features a retro look with circular headlights, while the other has rectangular lights with C-shaped daytime running lights. They are complemented by a minimalist grille displaying the “Toyota” emblem. Below, there are plastic front bumpers with slightly varying designs.

      On the sides, the Land Cruiser FJ showcases highly stylized bodywork and angular fender flares, along with robust cladding and a greenhouse that honors the larger model. Furthermore, a substantial rear pillar may hinder rear visibility.

      Speaking of visibility, a spare tire mounted on the tailgate obscures much of the rear window, accompanied by C-shaped taillights and a sturdy bumper.

      Interestingly, Toyota noted that the FJ will feature removable front and rear corner bumpers, allowing owners to easily replace damaged parts and save on repair costs.

      This is a neat idea, and Toyota has promised a variety of options, including “robust exterior” features. While specifics were sparse, they showcased models equipped with rock rails, elevated air intakes, and a roof-mounted ARB platform.

      The company also referred to MOLLE panels, with images indicating some mounted inside the tailgate.

      In terms of dimensions, the model measures 180.1 inches (4,575 mm) in length, 73 inches (1,855 mm) in width, and stands 77.2 inches (1,960 mm) tall, boasting a wheelbase of 101.6 inches (2,580 mm).

      For context, this makes the FJ 4.5 inches (114 mm) longer than the Corolla Cross, although it has a 2.3-inch (58 mm) shorter wheelbase. Additionally, the FJ is 13.7 inches (348 mm) shorter than the Land Cruiser, with a 10.6-inch (269 mm) reduction in wheelbase length.

      A Simple, Yet Recognizable Interior

      Inside, the familiar aesthetic continues as the model takes significant cues from the Land Cruiser. While operating details were limited, drivers will find a robust steering wheel and a digital instrument cluster, along with a widescreen infotainment display and separate climate control settings.

      The plastic-centric interior features a prominent gear shifter and several switchgear geared toward off-roading. The second row appears snug, with the potential for sliding forward and back. Although this remains to be confirmed, the company did mention that the model will include the Toyota Safety Sense suite of driver assistance technologies.

      Chassis and Powertrain

      The model is powered by a 2.7-liter 2TR-FE four-cylinder engine producing 161 hp (120 kW / 163 PS) and 181 lb-ft (246 Nm) of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and a part-time four-wheel drive system.

      This engine reflects the FJ's roots, as it originates from the Hilux and Fortuner models, with the vehicle built on a platform refined in the IMV series. Toyota offered limited details about this but suggested that additional braces have been added to enhance “higher body rigidity” for improved handling.

      The company claims the model will deliver “outstanding off-road performance worthy of a Land Cruiser.” In this effort, Toyota emphasized the approach angle, ground clearance, and wheel articulation, stating that extensive off-road testing identified areas for enhancement to preserve the true Land Cruiser spirit.

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      It Won’t Be Available in America

      Despite the platform offering truck-like capabilities, Toyota has confirmed that the Land Cruiser FJ will not be sold in the United States. “There are currently no plans to bring this vehicle to the North American market,” a company spokesperson informed Carscoops.

      This is disappointing news, especially considering the strong following for the FJ Cruiser.