Is this the cutest SUV 4×4 of the year? We say, yes. It’s the 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ, and it goes in an entirely different direction to the old FJ Cruiser. Preliminary specifications have been revealed ahead of its Tokyo Mobility Show debut.
The hype surrounding this car has been staggering – the most compact addition to Toyota’s LandCruiser range is the baby of the family, which also includes the 70 Series, 300 Series LandCruiser and LandCruiser Prado 250 Series.
Although some pundits had predicted the Land Cruiser FJ would be a competitor to the Suzuki Jimny, it is over half a metre longer than a five-door version of that car. Dimensions are 4575mm long, 1855mm wide and 1960mm tall, riding on a 2580mm wheelbase.
Styling is heavy on retro charm with a four-window design at the side and large C-pillar lending the FJ a stubby appearance. Protruding taillamps and a nearly all-glass tailgate put a contemporary twist on the styling.
Like the Prado there are multiple headlamp options, including circular as well as C-shaped LEDs, reminiscent of the HiLux Champ. In fact, the FJ utilises the same IMV platform as the delightful mini ute.
Inside, the cabin follows the HiLux Champ’s horizontal dashboard layout with large physical switches, plus the chunky gear lever of the Prado. A full suite of Toyota Safety Sense driver-assist technologies is standard, alongside a part-time four-wheel-drive system with a low-range transfer case and locking differentials.
The only powertrain mentioned so far has been the 2.7-litre ‘2TR’ inline four, which generates 120kW and 246Nm, channeled via a six-speed automatic gearbox. Rumours are that it will be offered with the 2.8-litre 1GD-FTV turbo-diesel of the HiLux as well as the smaller, 2.4-litre version. Diesel powertrains would give the FJ Cruiser quite a tasty power-to-weight ratio, we think.
This is no pretender to the throne either – this proper 4×4 has (yet-to-be-revealed) approach, departure, breakover angles and ground clearance which promises to be similar to the 270mm-longer Prado. Furthermore, its 5.5-metre turning radius should make it slightly more manoeuvrable than the live front axle Jimny.
Third-party accessories from the likes of ARB including snorkels, roof platforms, MOLLE rack panels as well as bash plates and other forms of protection create a rugged little package.
When is the 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ on sale in Australia? It debuts in its home country mid-2026, so expect expect a launch shortly thereafter. We expect there’ll be plenty of pent-up demand for this one.
