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🚀 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ: The ‘Baby’ Off-Roader Breaks Cover – Specs, India Launch, and Rivals Like Thar & Jimny
Toyota has officially unveiled the Land Cruiser FJ, an all-new compact, rugged SUV that serves as the entry point to the legendary Land Cruiser family. Revealed ahead of its public debut at the Japan Mobility Show 2025, this ‘Baby Land Cruiser’ is designed to bring the nameplate’s famed durability and off-road capability to a smaller, more accessible package. While a global rollout is confirmed, the excitement is high for its potential launch in the Indian market, where it would take on the likes of the Mahindra Thar and Maruti Suzuki Jimny.
🌟 Key Highlights & Design: A Blend of Retro Charm and Modern Ruggedness
The new Land Cruiser FJ, which reportedly stands for ‘Freedom & Joy’, is built on a heavily reinforced version of Toyota’s IMV ladder-frame platform, also used in the Fortuner and Hilux. This solid foundation ensures its off-road pedigree.
- Iconic Boxy Design: It retains the signature boxy, upright silhouette of its Land Cruiser siblings, instantly giving it a tough, purposeful road presence.
- Customizable Front Fascia: Toyota offers a choice of two front-end designs:
- Retro Look: Classic round headlights reminiscent of older Land Cruisers.
- Modern Look: Rectangular units with distinct C-shaped LED DRLs.
- Off-Road Ready Features: The design includes chunky bumpers with removable corners (for easier, cheaper replacement after off-roading mishaps), flared fenders, thick body cladding, and a tailgate-mounted spare wheel.
⚙️ Engine and Performance: Traditional Toughness
The Land Cruiser FJ currently showcased is powered by a reliable, tried-and-tested Toyota engine, paired with a capable 4×4 system.
Toyota Land Cruiser FJ Powertrain Details
| Specification | Detail |
| Engine | 2.7-litre, 4-cylinder, Naturally Aspirated Petrol |
| Max Power | 163 PS (161 hp) |
| Peak Torque | 246 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed ECT (Electronically Controlled Torque Converter) Automatic |
| Drivetrain | Part-time Four-Wheel-Drive (4WD) |
| Platform | Reinforced IMV Body-on-Frame (Shared with Fortuner/Hilux) |
The use of a ladder-frame chassis, a part-time 4WD system, and comparable ground clearance/approach angles to the larger Land Cruiser Prado confirm its intent as a serious off-roader.
🛋️ Interior & Features: Functional and Feature-Rich
The cabin of the FJ takes inspiration from the Land Cruiser Prado, prioritizing practicality and durability while packing in modern tech.
- Design Focus: Utilitarian, all-black theme with large, easy-to-use physical controls designed to be glove-friendly.
- Tech Stack: Features a large central 12.5-inch infotainment touchscreen and a digital instrument cluster.
- Comfort & Safety: Includes a chunky gearlever, dual-zone climate control, and most importantly, the Toyota Safety Sense ADAS suite (Level 2), which encompasses features like Adaptive Cruise Control and Pre-Collision Braking.
🇮🇳 India Launch & Competition: Will it Rival Thar and Jimny?
While Toyota has confirmed a launch in Japan by mid-2026, there is currently no official word on its India launch. However, given that the Land Cruiser FJ shares its body-on-frame platform and the 2.7L petrol engine with the India-sold Toyota Fortuner (in international markets), its eventual arrival in India is a strong possibility.
If launched, the Land Cruiser FJ would sit in a niche market, positioned above the Maruti Suzuki Jimny but offering a more premium and powerful alternative to the Mahindra Thar, given its larger engine, potential Toyota reliability advantage, and expected pricing.
Comparison: Land Cruiser FJ vs. Key Indian Rivals (Expected)
| Feature | New Toyota Land Cruiser FJ (Expected) | Mahindra Thar (Petrol) | Maruti Suzuki Jimny (Petrol) |
| Body Type | 5-door (Expected) | 3-door / 5-door (Expected) | 5-door |
| Platform | Body-on-Frame (IMV) | Body-on-Frame | Body-on-Frame |
| Engine (Type) | 2.7L NA Petrol | 2.0L Turbo Petrol | 1.5L NA Petrol |
| Power (Approx.) | 163 PS | 152 PS | 105 PS |
| Transmission | 6-speed AT | 6-speed MT/AT | 5-speed MT/4-speed AT |
| Drivetrain | Part-time 4WD | RWD/Shift-on-Fly 4WD | AllGrip Pro 4WD |
| Safety | Toyota Safety Sense (ADAS) | Global NCAP 4-Star (3-door) | Not Tested |
| Price (Estimated) | Higher than rivals, based on brand positioning | ₹11.25 Lakh – ₹17.60 Lakh | ₹12.74 Lakh – ₹15.00 Lakh |
Note: Prices are approximate Ex-showroom, Delhi, for comparison purposes.
Unmatched Features and Connectivity
The Hyundai Exter is packed with an array of features that set it apart from its competitors. The micro SUV boasts a spacious interior and offers a boot space of 391 litres, providing ample room for both passengers and luggage. Additionally, the Exter comes equipped with a dual-channel dashcam, electric sunroof, and six airbags as standard, ensuring the safety and convenience of its occupants.
Hyundai has also focused on connectivity features, with the Exter offering an 8-inch infotainment system with smartphone connectivity. This enables seamless integration of smartphones, allowing users to access their favorite apps and stay connected on the go. The Exter also comes with connected car technology, enabling users to remotely control various functions of the vehicle through their smartphones.
Hyundai’s SUV Dominance in India
With the launch of the Exter, Hyundai has further strengthened its position as a leading SUV manufacturer in India. According to Unsoo Kim, the India MD and CEO of Hyundai, the
company is now the only manufacturer offering products in all six SUV sub-segments. This highlights Hyundai’s commitment to catering to diverse customer needs and preferences.
Tarun Garg, the COO of Hyundai Motor India, expects the Exter to contribute significantly to the company’s overall sales volume. He predicts that the entry-level SUV segment could witness monthly sales of 20,000-22,000 units with the introduction of the Exter. This indicates the immense potential of the micro SUV in the Indian market.
Investment and Future Prospects
Hyundai has invested a substantial amount of Rs 950 crore in the development of the Exter for the Indian market. This investment showcases the company’s confidence in the potential of the micro SUV segment and its commitment to providing customers with high-quality products.
The Exter’s launch is expected to drive Hyundai’s overall SUV portfolio sales even further. Garg mentioned that SUVs currently account for 54% of Hyundai’s total sales in India, a significant increase from 34% in 2019. This highlights the growing preference for SUVs among Indian consumers and the positive impact the Exter can have on Hyundai’s market position.
Competition and Market Dynamics
The Hyundai Exter faces direct competition from Tata Motors’ Punch, another popular offering in the entry-level SUV segment. Tata Punch has garnered significant attention in the market, with current monthly sales numbers at around 11,000 units. However, Hyundai aims to challenge Tata’s dominance with the Exter’s competitive pricing, attractive features, and Hyundai’s brand reputation.
The entry-level SUV segment has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, driven by the increasing demand for compact and affordable SUVs. With its stylish design, advanced features, and competitive pricing, the Hyundai Exter is poised to capture a substantial market share and attract customers looking for a compact SUV that offers great value for money.
Conclusion
The Hyundai Exter’s entry into the Indian market has generated significant buzz, thanks to its competitive pricing, impressive features, and Hyundai’s strong brand presence. With its attractive design, powerful engine options, and advanced connectivity features, the Exter is set to redefine the entry-level SUV segment in India. Hyundai’s investment in the Exter highlights its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of Indian consumers and further strengthening its position as a leading SUV manufacturer. As the micro SUV segment continues to grow, the Hyundai Exter is poised to make a lasting impact and win the hearts of Indian SUV enthusiasts.
