By Otsile Kadiege

The Toyota Land Cruiser’s legacy began in 1951 with the humble yet capable Toyota BJ – a vehicle that made history by becoming the first to climb to the sixth station of Mount Fuji. Over the decades, the Land Cruiser nameplate has evolved into one of the most trusted and respected off-road vehicles in the world, with more than 12 million units sold across 190 countries.

From the heavy-duty 70 Series to the luxurious 300 Series and the recently launched 250 Series, each model has embodied the core Land Cruiser values of reliability, durability, and go-anywhere capability. Now, Toyota is adding a new member to the family – the Land Cruiser FJ, which aims to blend ruggedness with accessibility, offering “Freedom & Joy” to a new generation of adventure seekers.

Exterior design

At first glance, the Land Cruiser FJ looks unmistakably tough yet youthful. Its boxy, square-cabin silhouette pays homage to the utilitarian Land Cruisers of old, while modern touches give it a fresh, fun character.

The front and rear feature powerful bumpers and flared fenders that emphasize stability and strength, while the overall design draws inspiration from a dice motif – simple yet striking. Toyota also considered practicality and personalization, with removable corner bumpers that make repairs easier and open the door for customization.

Dimensions

The Land Cruiser FJ is more compact than its stablemates, offering impressive maneuverability without sacrificing off-road presence.

Length: 4,575 mm

Width: 1,855 mm

Height: 1,960 mm

Wheelbase: 2,580 mm

That shorter wheelbase – 270 mm less than the Land Cruiser 250 – contributes to a tight 5.5 m turning radius, making the FJ ideal for both narrow trails and urban environments.

Interior and safety

Inside, the Land Cruiser FJ’s cabin reflects Toyota’s focus on functionality and driving enjoyment. The horizontal instrument panel allows drivers to easily gauge vehicle attitude, while the low-set cowl and belt-line enhance forward visibility – a crucial advantage both off-road and in daily driving.

The cockpit layout groups key controls within easy reach to minimize distractions, and the Toyota Safety Sense suite ensures peace of mind with advanced features such as Pre-Collision Safety and lane support systems.

It’s an interior that prioritizes confidence and comfort, wrapped in a design that feels purpose-built for adventure.

Powertrain

Under the bonnet, the Land Cruiser FJ is powered by Toyota’s proven Tacoma-sourced 2TR-FE 2.7-litre petrol engine, delivering 120 kW and 246 Nm of torque. Power is sent through a 6-speed Super ECT automatic transmission to a part-time 4WD system.

Toyota says the FJ achieves wheel articulation comparable to the 70 Series, thanks to the IMV platform and strategic body bracing for increased rigidity. Combined with excellent approach angles and high ground clearance, the FJ stays true to the Land Cruiser’s reputation for tackling the toughest terrain with ease.

Availability

Toyota will unveil the Land Cruiser FJ at the Japan Mobility Show 2025.