The Land Cruiser FJ is the newest and most compact addition to the Land Cruiser family, positioning below the Land Cruiser Prado (250 Series) in size and price. Toyota debuted it in October 2025 as a spiritual successor to the BJ40 and the original FJ40 - boxy, upright, and unambiguously purposeful. It draws both design and mechanical inspiration from the Land Cruiser that launched the nameplate in 1951.
Platform: The FJ is built on Toyota’s IMV (Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle) ladder-frame platform, shared with the Hilux Champ, Fortuner, and Innova. This is a proven, globally manufactured architecture optimised for durability in developing markets rather than refinement - exactly the brief for a compact off-roader at this price point.
Dimensions: At 4,575 mm long on a 2,580 mm wheelbase, the FJ is noticeably shorter than the Land Cruiser Prado (4,925 mm) and Land Cruiser 300 (4,985 mm), making it more manoeuvrable in tight terrain and urban environments. Five seats are standard, with a sliding second-row bench. Cargo volume with seats up is 795 litres, growing substantially when the second row is stowed.
Powertrain: A naturally aspirated 2.7-litre inline-four produces 163 hp and 246 Nm, sent to all four wheels through a six-speed automatic and a part-time 4WD transfer case. This drivetrain prioritises simplicity and long-term reliability over performance numbers - the 2.7-litre unit has been in production for over two decades across multiple Toyota platforms.
Off-road capability: The part-time 4WD system includes a centre-locking function for low-traction surfaces. Ground clearance and approach and departure angles are consistent with the body-on-frame SUV segment rather than the softer road-biased crossovers.
Interior and technology: A digital instrument cluster, 12.3-inch infotainment display, and Toyota Safety Sense - the brand’s active safety suite including pre-collision braking, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise - are all standard in the single VX specification for the Japanese market. The rear door opens sideways (swing-out style) rather than as a conventional tailgate.
Toyota launched Japan sales in May 2026 with a single specification priced at ¥4,500,100 (approximately $28,300 USD).
