Toyota appears to be reviving the spirit of the FJ Cruiser with a new compact SUV that could carry the Land Cruiser FJ name. This move aligns with Toyota's strategy to expand the Land Cruiser lineup and offer a more affordable off-road capable vehicle.
Toyota teased a compact SUV silhouette during the 2024 Land Cruiser debut, hinting at a new model in the lineup. The new vehicle is expected to be smaller and more affordable than the current Land Cruiser, potentially priced around $50,000 AUD. It may use the Land Cruiser FJ name, though this is not confirmed.
The new model could be based on the TNGA-F platform used by the Land Cruiser, Tacoma, and Tundra, or potentially a modified version of the platform used for Toyota's affordable pickup in Thailand. Powertrain options are speculated to include both internal combustion and hybrid variants, with a potential for a fully electric version in the future.
The vehicle is rumored to debut as early as December 2024, with deliveries starting in spring 2025. It's expected to compete with vehicles like the Ford Bronco Sport in the compact off-road SUV segment. The new model would likely retain some styling cues from the original FJ Cruiser while incorporating modern design elements and technology.
While Toyota has not officially confirmed details about this new model, the potential revival of an FJ-inspired vehicle has generated significant interest among off-road enthusiasts. If realized, this new Land Cruiser FJ could fill a gap in Toyota's lineup, offering a more accessible entry point to the Land Cruiser brand while maintaining its off-road heritage.
