Toyota’s been on a roll lately with its Land Cruiser lineup, and now the storied automaker is bringing back one of its most iconic nameplates: the FJ. First appearing in the 1950s with the legendary FJ40 that became synonymous with rugged reliability, the badge went dormant for decades before Toyota revived it with the retro-styled FJ Cruiser in 2006. That model ran until 2022 in global markets, leaving enthusiasts wanting more. Now, Toyota’s answering that call with the all-new Land Cruiser FJ — a compact, go-anywhere SUV that captures the spirit of those early workhorses while fitting into today’s landscape.
Built Small, Built Tough
At just 180″ long with a 101-inch wheelbase, the Land Cruiser FJ is decidedly compact — shorter than a Bronco Sport but more capable than its dimensions might suggest. Toyota engineered this thing on the same IMV platform that underpins the Hilux, meaning it’s got proper bones for serious off-road work. The company claims it will have wheel articulation that matches the legendary 70 Series, which is no small feat for something this size. You’ll also get floor bracing for extra rigidity, a minimum turning radius of 5.5m, and removable corner bumpers (both for customization and easier trail repairs).
The exterior design keeps things straightforward with squared-off body panels with chamfered edges, flared fenders, and a boxy silhouette that maximizes interior space and cargo capacity. Inside, the cockpit takes cues from the 250 Series with a horizontal instrument panel and a low cowl that improves visibility on technical terrain. It’s Toyota Safety Sense-equipped too, so you get active safety features like Pre-Collision Safety alongside the off-road hardware. Power comes from a 2.7-liter inline-four that produces 163hp and 181lb.ft of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic and part-time four-wheel drive.
Freedom & Joy (But Not for Us)
Toyota’s calling this new model a vehicle for “Freedom & Joy,” representing the ability to customize the Land Cruiser in your own way. Optional accessories include round headlights that nod to classic Land Cruisers, MOLLE panels for gear attachment, A/T tires, roof racks, and even a snorkel. There’s also the Land Hopper, an electric folding trike designed to fit in the cargo area for exploring beyond where the FJ can reach.
The catch? Toyota has no plans to bring the Land Cruiser FJ to North America or Europe. It’s targeting Southeast Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America instead, with production kicking off in Thailand around mid-2026.
Spec Sheet
Model: 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ
Engine: 2.7L inline-four (2TR-FE)
Power: 163 hp, 181 lb.ft torque
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Drivetrain: Part-time 4WD
Wheelbase: 101.6″
Length: 180.1″
Seating: 5 passengers (two rows)
Pricing & Availability
Toyota hasn’t announced pricing yet, but the Land Cruiser FJ will launch in Japan and select global markets around mid-2026. Despite its ideal sizing for American buyers, there are no current plans for U.S. availability.
Recap
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ
Toyota’s bringing back the FJ nameplate with a compact Land Cruiser that’s built on the Hilux platform and promises serious off-road capability in a package smaller than a Bronco Sport. The bad news is that it’s headed to global markets starting mid-2026, but Toyota has no plans to sell it in North America or Europe.
