New FJ Cruiser: Toyota is working on available SUVs

Toyota is preparing to show the world a new compact SUV, which will be the successor of the cult model FJ Cruiser. According to rumors, the new car will be called Land Cruiser FJ, which is confirmed by Toyota's registered trademark. The official debut of the model is expected in the fall of 2025, and in the future it will go on sale around the world.

Compact size and brutal design

Toyota first hinted at a new model in 2023 when it released a teaser image. This SUV will be the smallest in the Land Cruiser line, inferior in size to the classic 70 series, the new Prado 250 and the flagship 300.

According to the previous images, it can be seen that the design of the new product is inspired by the 2021 Toyota Compact Cruiser EV concept. It is expected that the model will retain the awkward shapes, high ground clearance and strong off-road tires. A full-size spare wheel will be installed at the stern.

In terms of dimensions, the Land Cruiser FJ will be larger than the Toyota Corolla Cross, but slightly smaller than the RAV4. It is expected to measure around 4,500mm in length, 1,830mm in width, 1,850mm in height and a wheelbase of 2,750mm.

A frame instead of a supporting body

Most modern compact crossovers are built on load-bearing bodies, but the Land Cruiser FJ, apparently, will receive a frame structure. This is a rare solution for small SUVs, except for the Suzuki Jimny.

Instead of the expensive TNGA-F platform, which Toyota uses in the LC 250 and 300 models, the novelty will probably be built on the IMV 0 chassis. This is the same architecture that underlies the budget and little-known in Ukraine Toyota Hilux Champ pickup (Ranga in some countries). This approach will allow the manufacturer to preserve the off-road qualities of the model, but make it more affordable.

In addition, it is assumed that the Land Cruiser FJ will receive an all-wheel drive system with a self-locking Torsen differential, which, in combination with high ground clearance and run-through tires, will provide excellent off-road characteristics.

Engines: gasoline or hybrid?

Several variants of power plants are expected, but exact information is not yet available. Previously, there were rumors that the model will receive gasoline, hybrid and possibly electric versions. However, the latest data indicates that Toyota may abandon hybrids and leave only the gasoline engine.

One of the most likely engines for the Land Cruiser FJ is called the 2.7-liter four-cylinder unit 2TR-FE. This naturally aspirated engine is already used in the Thai version of the Hilux Champ and some other Toyota models. However, given the growing demand for hybrids in Europe and North America, Toyota may offer a hybrid version in those regions.

Thus, the new Land Cruiser FJ will be a compact, but full-fledged frame SUV that will retain the key qualities of the Land Cruiser family. The official debut of the model is planned for the fall of 2025.

Read updates:New Toyota Land Cruiser FJ 2026: Officially Revealed - Key Facts, Platform, 2TR-FE Engine, Price.