Follow us today...
For a while, we have been hearing about Toyota bringing back the FJ Cruiser. The company's trademark of the Land Cruiser FJ name will finally result in a production model, which is said to debut late in 2025, as a 2026 model. I am happy that the concepts Toyota showed us a few years ago, are making it to production with little to no changes in the design, and it seems the Land Cruiser FJ – previewed by the Compact Cruiser EV Concept – will be a similar case. The Japanese carmaker has more in store for truck enthusiasts, as the Toyota Stout pickup truck is also scheduled for a revival.
Workhorse-derived tech in a compact, retro package
The Land Cruiser FJ will be the smallest SUV to wear the iconic name. The compact SUV will be based on the IMV-0 body-on-frame platform, which underpins the Toyota Hilux Champ – not offered in North America. In the case of the boxy, retro-styled SUV, the wheelbase will be shortened. True to tradition, the Land Cruiser FJ will feature a full-time four-wheel-drive system derived from the J250 Land Cruiser, with a Torsen center-locking differential.
As for the dimensions, the 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ will be positioned between the Corolla Cross and Toyota RAV4, which is due for a new generation in 2026. Below are figures quoted by the Japanese publication, BestCarWeb.
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ dimensions
- Length: 4,500 mm (177.16 inches)
- Width: 1,830 mm (74.04 inches)
- Height: 1,850 mm (72.83 inches)
- Wheelbase: 2,750 mm (108.26 inches)
Different engines for different markets, but only one confirmed so far
It is already confirmed that the Land Cruiser FJ will be a global model, but the engine situation isn't as clear. So far, we know the 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ will feature a 2TR, 2.7-liter, normally aspirated, inline-four engine, making 163 horsepower and 180 pound-feet.
This engine will not be coming to the US. It is a similar story with the J250 Land Cruiser, which features the same unit for Europe, Australia, Japan, and other non-US markets. There was also a 2.8-liter turbodiesel planned (again from the J250 Land Cruiser), but the latest reports suggest it will not be featured in the compact SUV.
What isn't yet confirmed is whether the US variants will get the same 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain as the RAV4. Then, there is the new, 2.0-liter turbo-four, which will grace the upcoming GR Celica, but this will, likely, not appear in the FJ Cruiser. Being a compact model, it will likely get the new 1.5-liter turbo-four unit, similar to models like the Ford Bronco Sport or Honda CR-V, which have similar engines.
The good news is, you will be able to get the Land Cruiser FJ with a six-speed manual, but a six-speed automatic will also be available for those who don't want to shift gears themselves.
The brand's most affordable SUV yet
While most markets don't get official price listing yet, we have a good pointer. In Japan, the 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ will start at around 3.8 million yen ($26,343) with the range-topping model topping out at around 4.5 million yen ($31,196).
The 2025 RAV4 starts at $30,645, so I expect the Land Cruiser FJ prices in the US to be in that same range. The last Toyota FJ Cruiser is a champion at retaining value, but currently, US prices are all over the place. With the upcoming FJ being smaller and not offering a V-6, it looks like the FJ Cruiser will solidify its position as a modern-day classic.
What are your thoughts on the 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ? Is it the compact off-road SUV America needs, or should Toyota have made it larger and more rugged like the last FJ? Feel free to comment below.
Dimitar Angelov's automotive interests made him an expert in a wide variety of vehicles. Japanese brands like Toyota are closest to his heart, although performance cars in general are his favorite segment, which is why he is constantly on the lookout for the best deals on the market. Dimitar Angelov's car passion and knack for the written word led him to complete a Master of Arts in Media and Communications, and classic car restoration. Dim is happy to get behind the wheel of any car and share his impressions. You can follow Dimitar on X, Linked-in, Instagram, and Facebook.
Image sources: Toyota Compact Crusier EV press, BestCarWeb
Follow us today...
Comments
The new FJ needs to be…
Permalink
The new FJ needs to be rugged and very capable off-road, otherwise what's the point? The article describes a low-end U.S. version, but a high-end offering will sell like hotcakes. The FJ 'Extreme' should have 33"+ tires, 10" ground clearance, good articulation, rear differential locker and a more powerful powertrain. A V6 option is best. I envisage a platform capable of offering both an affordable entry level up to a premium trim that compares with a Wrangler or Bronco.
Yes, the V-6 is a must, but…
Permalink
In reply to The new FJ needs to be… by Steven Cheshire (not verified)
Yes, the V-6 is a must, but given this will be a mode positioned under the J250 Land Cruiser - a model, which doesn't come with a V-6 (unless you count the GX550) - it seems highly unlikely that the new FJ Cruiser will get more than a 4-banger.
That said, the J250 LC has a V-6 turbodiesel for some markets, but again, it will likely not arrive in the US with that mill. Would you buy an FJ Cruiser with a V-6 turbodiesel?
Absolutely but no Hybrids…
Permalink
In reply to Yes, the V-6 is a must, but… by Dim Angelov (not verified)
Absolutely but no Hybrids what so EVER.
I can't believe this is…
Permalink
I can't believe this is still (slightly) bigger than the 3rd gen 4runner, but at least it's going to be small enough to actually be capable in tight spaces.