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Toyota reveals baby Land Cruiser with Smashing Looks

Keywords for SEO: Toyota Land Cruiser FJ, compact SUV India, Land Cruiser FJ launch date, Toyota Fortuner mini, rugged 4×4 SUV, Land Cruiser FJ price, off-road SUV

Toyota has officially unveiled the highly-anticipated Land Cruiser FJ, a rugged and compact SUV that slots in as the new entry point to the legendary Land Cruiser family. Carrying the iconic nameplate’s DNA into a smaller, more accessible package, the Land Cruiser FJ has generated massive buzz, particularly in markets like India, where a capable, body-on-frame 4×4 is highly sought after.

This “baby Land Cruiser,” which harks back to the classic FJ Cruiser and draws design cues from the Land Cruiser 250 (Prado), promises uncompromising off-road capability matched with a versatile, modern design. While the global launch is set for mid-2026 starting in Japan, the model’s unveiling suggests a fierce new competitor for vehicles like the Mahindra Thar, Force Gurkha, and the Maruti Suzuki Jimny.

Design: Retro-Inspired Boxiness Meets Modern Muscle

 

The Land Cruiser FJ’s design is an immediate head-turner, perfectly translating the Land Cruiser’s legendary robust aesthetic into a smaller form factor.

  • Boxy Silhouette: A squared-off, upright cabin maximizes interior space and echoes the classic Land Cruiser look.
  • Dual Front Fascia Options: Buyers can choose between two distinct front-end styles:
    • Retro Look: Featuring classic round headlights for a heritage feel.
    • Modern Look: Sporting rectangular headlamps with aggressive C-shaped LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs).
  • Built for the Trail: The design emphasizes off-road utility with:
    • Chunky, flared wheel arches and thick body cladding.
    • A bold “TOYOTA” lettering grille.
    • A practical, tailgate-mounted spare wheel.
  • Modular Bumpers: A key feature for off-road enthusiasts is the removable, segmented front and rear corner bumpers. This design allows owners to replace only the damaged sections after a tough trail run, reducing repair costs and facilitating customization.

Performance: True Land Cruiser Capability in a Smaller Frame

 

Built on a refined version of the battle-tested IMV platform (which underpins the Toyota Hilux and Fortuner), the Land Cruiser FJ is engineered for authentic 4×4 performance, distinguishing it from most compact unibody SUVs.

Feature Specification Details
Engine (Japan-Spec) 2.7-liter, 4-cylinder naturally-aspirated petrol (2TR-FE)
Maximum Output 120 kW (161 hp / 163 PS)
Maximum Torque 246 Nm
Transmission 6-speed Super ECT Automatic
Drivetrain Part-time Four-Wheel-Drive (4WD) System
Chassis Body-on-Frame (Ladder Frame)
Off-Road Prowess Wheel articulation equivalent to the Land Cruiser 70 Series
Maneuverability Short 5.5-meter minimum turning radius

Note: Toyota is expected to introduce a diesel engine option (potentially the 2.8-litre turbo-diesel) and possibly a hybrid powertrain for select international markets, which would be crucial for a high-volume launch in India.

Dimensions and Practicality

 

The Land Cruiser FJ is significantly more compact than its larger siblings, making it a more city-friendly but equally capable adventurer.

Dimension Measurement Comparison Point
Length 4,575 mm Shorter than a Toyota Fortuner
Width 1,855 mm Similar to a Fortuner
Height 1,960 mm Taller than a Fortuner
Wheelbase 2,580 mm Shorter than the Land Cruiser 250 (Prado) by 270 mm
Seating Two-row, 5-seater Ideal for small families/adventurers

 

Interior and Technology: Functional and Modern

 

The cabin of the Land Cruiser FJ is designed with a focus on functionality and ruggedness, yet it integrates modern tech expected by today’s buyers.

  • Functional Layout: A horizontal instrument panel improves visibility, crucial for off-roading.
  • Intuitive Controls: It features a mix of a large central touchscreen infotainment system and welcome physical knobs/buttons for primary functions like climate control.
  • Off-Road Focus: The robust gear shifter and 4WD dial are prominently placed.
  • Advanced Safety: The SUV is confirmed to feature the Toyota Safety Sense suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), which typically includes pre-collision systems and adaptive cruise control.
  • Customization: The interior and exterior are set up for personalization, with options like MOLLE panels on the tailgate for mounting gear, and accessories like rock rails and snorkels.

India Launch & Expected Price: The Compact 4×4 Everyone is Waiting For

 

While Toyota has not officially confirmed the Land Cruiser FJ for the Indian market, its positioning and platform make it a high-potential product. The IMV platform and the 2.7-litre petrol engine are already localized in India (used in the Fortuner and Innova Crysta), which could significantly ease production and keep costs competitive.

  • Expected India Launch: While the global launch is mid-2026, an India introduction could follow in late 2026 or early 2027.
  • Expected Price (Ex-Showroom): Initial estimates place the price in the range of ₹28 Lakh – ₹37 Lakh, positioning it above the Mahindra Thar and Maruti Jimny, but significantly below the Fortuner.

If launched, the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ is poised to shake up the premium, rugged SUV segment, offering a genuine off-road legend in a size perfect for Indian city commutes and challenging terrains.


 

🎥 Must-Watch Videos: See the Land Cruiser FJ in Action

 

To ensure maximum engagement, embed these video links/previews in the final post:

Video Title Description Estimated Search Query for Link
Toyota Land Cruiser FJ Global Reveal Official press conference or cinematic unveiling of the FJ prototype. Toyota Land Cruiser FJ official reveal video
Land Cruiser FJ Off-Road Capability Footage showcasing the FJ tackling rough terrain, highlighting 4WD, articulation, and approach/departure angles. Land Cruiser FJ off-road testing video
Design Walkaround: Retro vs. Modern Headlights Detailed look at the two front-end options and the modular bumper design. Toyota Land Cruiser FJ design modular bumper

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