At the Japan Mobility Show 2025, the Toyota Land Cruiser 2025 was recently revealed. The new Land Cruiser FJ will replace the famous Land Cruiser FJ40, which is built on the same platform as its larger brother, the Land Cruiser 250. Let’s look at the new Land Cruiser FJ’s design, features, and powertrain
Introduction
The Toyota Land Cruiser has always been a symbol of ruggedness, reliability, and off‑road dominance. Over the decades, it has built a reputation as one of the toughest SUVs in the world, capable of handling deserts, mountains, and city roads with equal ease. In 2025, Toyota unveiled a new chapter in this legacy — the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ, a compact SUV inspired by the retro design of classic Land Cruisers but infused with modern technology and practicality. This vehicle is positioned as a smaller, more affordable alternative to the Fortuner and the larger Land Cruiser 300 series, making it accessible to a wider audience.
The Land Cruiser FJ is not just another SUV; it is a lifestyle vehicle designed for young adventurers, urban explorers, and families who want a mix of style, heritage, and capability. Let’s explore its details point by point.
Design & Styling
One of the most striking aspects of the Land Cruiser FJ is its retro‑inspired design. Toyota has deliberately chosen a boxy, upright stance that pays homage to the original Land Cruiser FJ40 from the 1960s. This design philosophy blends nostalgia with modern aesthetics.
- Boxy silhouette: The SUV has sharp edges, squared wheel arches, and a tall stance that immediately conveys toughness.
- Compact dimensions: Unlike the massive Land Cruiser 300, the FJ is smaller, making it easier to manoeuvre in crowded urban environments while still looking rugged.
- Adventure‑ready look: Roof rails, skid plates, and chunky tires emphasize its off‑road character.
- Lifestyle appeal: Toyota is targeting younger buyers who want a vehicle that looks stylish on Instagram yet performs well on weekend road trips.
Platform & Build
The Land Cruiser FJ is built on Toyota’s IMV 0 platform, a modular architecture designed for durability and flexibility. This platform is the backbone of several Toyota SUVs and pickup trucks, ensuring that the FJ inherits proven toughness.
- Durability: The IMV 0 platform is engineered to withstand harsh terrains, making the FJ suitable for off‑road adventures.
- Flexibility: It allows Toyota to offer multiple body styles and engine options depending on the market.
- Suspension setup: High ground clearance and robust suspension ensure stability on rocky trails and muddy roads.
- Heritage DNA: By using a platform that emphasizes strength, Toyota ensures that the FJ lives up to the Land Cruiser name.
Engine & Performance
While Toyota has not yet confirmed the exact engine line-up for all markets, industry reports suggest that the FJ will come with multiple engine options, including petrol and diesel.
- Petrol engines: Likely to include a 2.0‑liter or 2.4‑liter unit for urban buyers who prioritize smooth performance.
- Diesel engines: A 2.8‑liter diesel option may be offered for those who want torque and efficiency, especially in markets like India.
- Transmission: Both manual and automatic gearboxes are expected, giving buyers flexibility.
- Off‑road capability: Despite being compact, the FJ will feature four‑wheel drive options, traction control, and driving modes for sand, mud, and snow.
- Balance of power and efficiency: Toyota aims to make the FJ powerful enough for adventure yet efficient enough for daily commuting.
Interior & Features
Step inside the Land Cruiser FJ, and you’ll find a cabin that mixes retro charm with modern convenience.
- Dashboard design: Simple, rugged lines with durable materials that can withstand rough use.
- Infotainment system: A touchscreen with Apple Car Play and Android Auto support.
- Seating: Practical layout with comfortable seats, suitable for both city drives and long journeys.
- Utility focus: Ample storage spaces, foldable rear seats, and rugged upholstery designed for adventure trips.
- Safety features: Toyota Safety Sense package, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and multiple airbags.
Positioning in the Market
Toyota has carefully positioned the Land Cruiser FJ to fill a gap in its SUV lineup.
- Below Fortuner: The FJ is smaller and cheaper than the Fortuner, appealing to buyers who want Land Cruiser DNA without the high price tag.
- Lifestyle SUV: Unlike the utilitarian Hilux or the premium Land Cruiser 300, the FJ is designed to be stylish and fun.
- Target audience: Young professionals, adventure enthusiasts, and families looking for a capable yet affordable SUV.
- Competitors: It will compete with SUVs like the Mahindra Scorpio‑N, Jeep Compass, and Tata Safari in India.
Key Highlights (Quick Recap)
- Retro‑inspired boxy design.
- Built on IMV 0 platform for durability.
- Multiple petrol and diesel engine options.
- Modern yet rugged interior with infotainment and safety features.
- Global debut in 2025, launch in 2026, India by 2027–28.
- Price range: ₹20–26 lakh.
- Positioned below Fortuner as a lifestyle SUV.
Conclusion
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ is a bold move by Toyota to make the legendary Land Cruiser brand more accessible. By combining retro styling, modern features, and off road capability in a compact package, Toyota has created a vehicle that appeals to both nostalgia and practicality. For buyers who dream of owning a Land Cruiser but find the Fortuner or Land Cruiser 300 too expensive, the FJ offers the perfect middle ground.
With its expected launch in India by 2027–28 at an affordable price range, the Land Cruiser FJ could become a game changer in the SUV market. It blends heritage, adventure, and affordability — three qualities that resonate strongly with today’s SUV buyers.