Cart 0
⛰️ FORTUNER’S RIVAL: Toyota Land Cruiser FJ Confirmed for India Launch—Baby LC to Take on Scorpio N!
Toyota is preparing to drastically expand its presence in the premium off-road SUV segment with the introduction of the Land Cruiser FJ. Unveiled recently at the Japan Mobility Show, this “Baby Land Cruiser” is set to become the most accessible model in the legendary Land Cruiser family, and crucially for India, it is confirmed for launch in late 2028, with domestic production starting earlier that year.
Designed with a rugged, retro aesthetic reminiscent of the iconic FJ Cruiser and the classic Land Cruiser 70 Series, the FJ aims to deliver genuine off-road capability in a compact, lifestyle-focused package, directly positioning it against ladder-frame competitors like the Mahindra Scorpio N.
🛠️ Platform & Dimensions: Shorter But Tougher
Contrary to initial rumors of a monocoque platform, the Land Cruiser FJ is built on the proven IMV ladder-frame chassis, which underpins the immensely popular Fortuner and Hilux, cementing its serious off-road credentials.
| Dimension / Feature | Toyota Land Cruiser FJ | Toyota Fortuner (Comparison) | Key Takeaway |
| Platform | IMV Ladder Frame | IMV Ladder Frame | Ensures durability and ruggedness. |
| Length | $4,575 \text{ mm}$ | $4,795 \text{ mm}$ | Significantly shorter, offering better city agility and off-road break-over angle. |
| Wheelbase | $2,580 \text{ mm}$ | $2,745 \text{ mm}$ | Shorter wheelbase improves maneuverability on tight trails. |
| Seating | 5-seater (2-row) | 7-seater (3-row) | Focuses purely on lifestyle and adventure, not family size. |
| Ground Clearance | $215 \text{ mm}$ (Confirmed) | $225 \text{ mm}$ | Very capable for Indian roads and mild off-roading. |
⛽ Powertrain Strategy: Hybrid Focus, No Diesel
In a major strategic shift driven by increasingly stringent emission norms, Toyota plans to launch the Land Cruiser FJ in India without a diesel engine option—a bold move for a rugged SUV.
| Powertrain Type | Engine / Drivetrain | Power Output (Expected) | India Launch Status |
| Base Petrol | $2.7 \text{-litre}$ Naturally Aspirated ($4 \text{-cyl}$) | $\approx 163 \text{ hp}$ and $246 \text{ Nm}$ | Available at launch (late 2028). |
| Strong Hybrid | Petrol + Electric Motor | Details Awaited (Focus on Efficiency) | Planned for a later phase. |
| Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) | High-capacity Battery + Petrol | Significant Premium Expected | Planned for a later phase. |
| Off-road Gear | Part-time $4\text{WD}$ system with Low-Range Gear | Confirmed for serious capability. | Standard on 4WD variants. |
Crucial Note: The Land Cruiser FJ will be manufactured locally in India, specifically at Toyota’s upcoming new facility in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, with a portion earmarked for export. This high level of localization is key to achieving a competitive price point.
💰 Expected Pricing & Segment Rivalry
The Land Cruiser FJ will strategically sit below the Fortuner, aiming to capture the market share of premium, lifestyle-focused off-roaders.
| Metric | Expected Detail | Competitors (Estimated Segment) |
| Expected Price (Ex-showroom) | ₹30 Lakh – ₹35 Lakh | Mahindra Scorpio N (Top End), Jeep Compass, Tata Safari/Harrier (High-end). |
| India Launch Timeline | Late 2028 | Positioned to compete with the next generation of rugged SUVs. |
| Target Audience | Off-road enthusiasts, lifestyle buyers, and those desiring the Land Cruiser badge without the Fortuner’s premium. | Its focus is on ruggedness and heritage, not urban luxury. |
🎥 Video: First Look – Toyota Land Cruiser FJ Prototype, Design & Off-Road Capability
Get a detailed walkthrough of the new Land Cruiser FJ, featuring its boxy, retro-cool styling, the interior digital displays, and a look at the physical 4×4 controls that off-road purists will appreciate
