Toyota pulls it off again: you want this new baby Land Cruiser, right?

October 21, 2025

Boring

For years, Toyota had the image of solid, but somewhat well behaved cars. Until the top executive promised a few years ago that the brand would never again build “boring cars” – and that was no empty promise. Today, Toyota secretly has one of the industry’s most idiosyncratic model lines. From the insane GR Yaris to the Supra, the (recently defunct) GT86, the futuristic Mirai and, of course, the indestructible Land Cruiser. And the latter now gets a compact brother: the Land Cruiser FJ. A smaller, more playful version of the legendary off-roader.

Little brother with big ambitions

The FJ is the newest member of the Land Cruiser family, which now includes such heavyweights as the 300, 250 and the primal 70 series. Whereas those models are primarily large and imposing, the FJ chooses a different path: shorter, lighter and more agile. With a length of 4.57 meters and a wheelbase of 2.58 meters, it is almost a “pocket-sized Land Cruiser.”

Nostalgia

In terms of design, the FJ is a delightful blend of nostalgia and modernity. Toyota clearly harkens back to the DNA of the earlier FJ Cruiser, with angular shapes, contrasting colors and round headlights. Yet everything is sleek and modern, with LED lights, a cool grille and, of course, optional extras such as a snorkel, roof rack and off-road tires. Two faces are even available: a retro version with round headlights and a more modern front with C-shaped light units.

No electric powertrain

Contrary to what you might expect from a new Toyota model, the FJ is not an EV or hybrid. Under the hood is a 2.7-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with 163 hp and 246 Nm, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Simple, reliable and built to last – exactly what you expect from a Land Cruiser. It shares its IMV platform with the Hilux, but is shorter and narrower, making it more agile. Toyota promises excellent off-road capability, although exact slope and drive angles have not yet been released.

Interior

Inside, the FJ exudes the same rugged simplicity as its exterior. The angular dashboard looks functional and strong, but there is also room for modern technology. For example, the car features a digital instrument cluster, a large infotainment screen and Toyota’s latest Safety Sense systems. The materials are sturdy and meant to survive a splash of mud.

Asia first, then maybe more

Toyota will begin production of the Land Cruiser FJ in Thailand, with a launch in Japan in mid-2026. The initial focus will be on Asia, the Middle East and South America. According to chief engineer Masaya Uchiyama, the compact FJ is not intended for the American or European markets – “too small,” according to the man himself. Yet there are already whispers in European circles about a possible hybrid variant that does stand a chance of a European introduction. Let’s hope so.