By Malusi Msomi

Toyota has expanded its legendary Land Cruiser family with the introduction of the all-new Land Cruiser FJ, a compact SUV that blends classic off-road design with modern technology and everyday practicality.

Inspired by Land Cruisers of the past, the FJ features a boxy silhouette, rugged bumpers, square LED headlights, and up to 18-inch alloy wheels. It certainly has plenty of presence on the road, and from almost every angle, there’s no mistaking its heritage.

Inside, the cabin strikes a balance between ruggedness and modern convenience. Our VX test vehicle came equipped with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 7-inch TFT instrument cluster, and a straightforward layout that feels functional rather than overly complicated. Passenger space is also better than expected for a vehicle of this size, making it feel more practical than its compact dimensions might suggest.

Under the bonnet sits a 2.7-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 122kW and 245Nm, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. On paper, the figures may not stand out, but the engine delivers its power smoothly and predictably.

After spending some time behind the wheel around Cape Town, it’s easy to understand why there’s been so much anticipation surrounding the Land Cruiser FJ. It delivers a reassuringly solid driving experience, with a suspension setup that deals confidently with rough roads while remaining comfortable enough for everyday driving.

Off the beaten track is where the FJ begins to feel most at home. It tackles uneven terrain with confidence and carries the sort of composure buyers have come to expect from a vehicle wearing the Land Cruiser badge.

One area we’ll reserve final judgement on is fuel consumption. Our launch vehicle had covered just 350km, and during our drive it proved to be on the thirsty side. It’ll be interesting to see whether consumption improves as the engine loosens up, and how the naturally aspirated powertrain performs at higher altitudes once we have the opportunity to test it closer to home.

Overall, the Land Cruiser FJ makes a strong first impression. It combines classic Land Cruiser character with modern usability, and while we’ll need more time with it before delivering a final verdict, it already feels like a worthy addition to Toyota’s iconic off-road family.

Pricing starts at R714,000 for the GX, while the VX is priced from R761,400.