After months, if not years, of speculation, Toyota has finally unveiled its “baby” Land Cruiser. The Toyota FJ is a pint-sized off-roader that will go on sale in Japan in mid-2026. It’s destined for other Asian markets, as well as the Middle East, but unfortunately for us, not the U.S. or Europe.
Looking for all the world like a Land Cruiser 250 that’s been left in the dryer too long, the new FJ is smaller in every dimension yet still has excellent approach and departure angles from the look of it. Toyota also wants its customers to customize the FJ, so it’s shown a standard version alongside one with some cool details such as retro round headlights and a snorkel.
Everything We Know About The New Toyota FJ
The Toyota FJ is 180 inches long, compared to 193.8 inches for the modern-day Land Cruiser 250. As for width, the little ute spans 73 inches wide, compared to 84.2 inches for its more sizable sibling. In other words, the “baby” Land Cruiser is truly compact.
Toyota has chosen its 2.7-liter four-cylinder to power the FJ. It produces 160 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque, and it’s mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and part-time four-wheel-drive system. Toyota hasn’t said what the FJ’s ground clearance is, but it has compared its wheel articulation to that of the Land Cruiser 70 Series.
As mentioned, customization will be a big selling point for the FJ. In addition to retro headlights and a snorkel, Toyota will offer MOLLE panels to help carry gear and plans to release more parts throughout the vehicle’s lifecycle. The vehicle’s front and rear corner bumpers are also entirely removable, which not only allows for customization, but also improves the SUV’s repairability by not requiring the whole bumper to be replaced if it gets damaged.
Lastly, the FJ’s interior looks all business. With squared-off edges and a decidedly horizontal orientation, it looks very much like a Land Cruiser’s cabin. The sight lines, in particular, look excellent for off-roading, with a low beltline on the sides and a low-set cowl that lets the driver see out over the entire hood. Of course, the FJ will get Toyota Safety Sense, as well, which includes a full suite of advanced safety equipment.
TopSpeed’s Take
Automotive News spoke with Toyota’s chief engineer Masaya Uchiyama, who said the new FJ isn’t coming to North America or Europe because it’s just too small. There is a chance, however, that it could go on sale in South America. That doesn’t help us here in the States, though.
The Suzuki Jimny is another iconic wee-roader that isn’t sold here. We can’t help but speculate that America’s love affair with largesse is hurting our ability to enjoy these compact, affordable, and cute little SUVs. Automakers, however, should realize that not every American wants a $1,000/month car payment for the privilege of owning a gas-guzzling SUV or truck.
Give us a tidier version that costs less to own and operate, and we’ll buy it. For proof, look at the return of small pickups such as the Ford Maverick or the popularity of subcompact SUVs such as the Chevrolet Trax and Subaru Crosstrek.