On October 21, 2025, Toyota Motor Corporation unveiled the new Land Cruiser “FJ” for the first time in the world. The fourth model in the Land Cruiser series, which has a history of over 70 years, is scheduled for release in Japan around mid-2026. This groundbreaking model inherits the Land Cruiser tradition of being a car that can go anywhere and come back alive, while also offering the new value of “Freedom & Joy” (the freedom to enjoy life your way).
Launching in Japan in mid-2026! A new option for the Land Cruiser family
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ
The Land Cruiser was born in 1951 as the Toyota BJ model, and shortly thereafter became the first automobile to successfully climb Mount Fuji’s 6th Station. To date, a total of 12.15 million units (including the Lexus LX and GX) have been sold in over 190 countries and regions, supporting the lives and livelihoods of people around the world. The new FJ will mark a new chapter in this history of trust.
Land Cruiser FJ Features | Full-scale off-road performance packed into a compact body
A size design that combines easy handling with off-road performance
The greatest appeal of the new Land Cruiser FJ is its compact body size combined with full-scale off-road performance. The main specifications are as follows:
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ
Body Size:
- Total length: 4,575mm
- Overall width: 1,855mm
- Overall height: 1,960mm
- Wheelbase: 2,580mm
- Seating capacity: 5 people (2-row seats)
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ
Compared to the Land Cruiser 250, the overall length is approximately 350 mm shorter and the wheelbase is 270 mm shorter. As a result, the minimum turning radius is 5.5 m, which is significantly improved maneuverability compared to the Land Cruiser 250’s 6.0 m. This not only improves usability in urban areas, but also maneuverability on narrow forest roads and off-road.
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ
Adopting the proven IMV platform
The Land Cruiser FJ utilizes the IMV (Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle) series platform, which is also used in the Hilux, Fortuner, etc. The IMV platform has been tested in harsh environments around the world and is known for its reliability, durability, and ease of maintenance.
It is worth noting that the shortest wheelbase of 2,580 mm was newly developed for the new FJ. By adding underfloor braces to the ladder frame structure and increasing the rigidity of the body, it ensures excellent handling stability and off-road performance.
The front suspension is a double-wishbone independent suspension, while the rear is a trailing-link axle rigid suspension, designed with an emphasis on maintainability and reliability. Wheel articulation (tire contact with the ground) achieves performance equivalent to that of the Land Cruiser 70 Series, making it suitable for serious off-road driving.
Powertrain | Equipped with a well-established 2.7L gasoline engine
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ
Engine selection that emphasizes reliability and maintainability
The new Land Cruiser FJ is equipped with a 2TR-FE 2.7L in-line 4-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine has a proven track record around the world and is characterized by its easy availability of parts and excellent maintainability.
Engine Specs:
- Model: 2TR-FE
- Displacement: 2.7L (inline 4-cylinder)
- Maximum output: 120kW (163PS)
- Maximum torque: 246N・m
- Transmission: 6-speed AT (6 Super ECT)
- Drive system: Part-time 4WD system
While it has the same power rating as the Land Cruiser 250, its vehicle weight has been reduced by approximately 200 kg, which is expected to improve power performance and fuel economy. Considering that the Land Cruiser 250 weighs 2,240 kg, the new FJ is estimated to weigh around 2,040 kg, making for a more nimble ride.
Equipped with a full-fledged 4WD system
The drive system is a part-time 4WD, and can be switched between H2 (rear-wheel drive), H4 (high-speed 4-wheel drive), and L4 (low-speed 4-wheel drive). It also comes equipped with a rear differential lock function that is effective on slippery surfaces, a 2nd-speed start mode, and hill descent control.
The steering mechanism is hydraulic power steering, and unlike the recirculating ball type used in the Land Cruiser 70, it uses a rack and pinion system, which allows for more precise handling.
Design | Exterior that combines tradition and modernity
Unique styling with a dice motif
The design concept of the new Land Cruiser FJ is a rectangular body with a dice motif and chamfered edges. It retains the square cabin that has been emphasized in previous Land Cruiser models, taking into consideration the comfort and cargo capacity, while expressing a strong, solid, and fun-loving feel.
The front of the car combines a sleek, simple body with a powerful bumper and jutting fenders to create an overwhelming sense of stability. The front grille features “TOYOTA” lettering, creating a dignified face that is instantly recognizable as a Land Cruiser.
The rear is designed to be narrow, with consideration given to aerodynamic performance, and a spare tire is mounted on the tailgate, emphasizing the tough image of the Land Cruiser.
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ
Design concept that takes maintainability into consideration
It is worth noting that the front and rear corner bumpers are removable and split, which allows for partial replacement in the event of damage during off-road driving, reducing repair costs. At the same time, it also makes it easier to customize the vehicle to suit your individual tastes.
The approach and departure angles have not been announced, but they are approximately 30 degrees at the front and 25 degrees at the rear, making the car designed to handle serious off-road driving.
Interior | A cockpit designed for functionality and operability
Intuitive layout for operation
The interior of the new Land Cruiser FJ has been designed to enable passengers to experience the joy of travel. The horizontally-oriented instrument panel makes it easy to recognize the vehicle’s position, and the low-design cowl and top of the instrument panel provide excellent forward visibility.
The driver’s seat is fitted with a digital meter and widescreen infotainment system that consolidates functions to minimize eye movement.The cockpit layout, including switches and a shift knob that can be operated naturally, allows for instant recognition and operation even when driving in a variety of environments.
The low beltline makes it easy to look down at the road even on rough terrain, improving safety when driving off-road.The parking brake is a reliable hand lever type.
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ
Extensive safety equipment
The preventive safety package “Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) 3” is equipped as standard, and advanced driving assistance functions such as pre-crash safety support more safe driving. However, because it is a mechanical parking brake, there may be some limitations on the function of holding the vehicle stationary in traffic jams.
The rear seat is only available in a 5-seater, 2-row seat configuration, with USB-C terminals in the front seats and DC 12V sockets in the rear seats. The rear luggage compartment is accessed via a single-wing tailgate, and a large luggage space can be secured by folding down the rear seats.
Customization | Plenty of options to express your individuality
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ
Round headlights reminiscent of previous Land Cruisers
One of the major features of the new Land Cruiser FJ is its wide range of customization options. The standard headlights are rectangular, but as an option, you can change them to round headlights reminiscent of previous Land Cruisers. This round headlight specification has attracted a lot of attention, especially from users who prefer a retro off-road style.
Accessories to support your off-road style
At the Japan Mobility Show 2025, the following items were exhibited as overseas customization specifications.
- Snorkel (air intake extension) : For riding in deep puddles and dusty environments
- Side steps : Improved ingress/egress and body protection
- Roof rack : Greatly expand your cargo capacity
- Heavy-duty exterior parts : front bumper guard, rock sliders, etc.
- MOLLE panel : Equipped on the inside of the tailgate, it can be used to attach outdoor gear.
- Rear bumper customization : Changed to a shape suitable for off-road driving
These options will be introduced gradually over the life of the model, with availability and content varying by region.
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ
LAND HOPPER | A new proposal to expand freedom of movement
At the same time as the new FJ, a concept model of the electric personal mobility vehicle “LAND HOPPER” was also announced. Developed for enjoying trails beyond those reached by the Land Cruiser (mainly unpaved paths in the mountains and forests), the vehicle is small enough to fit into the luggage space when folded.
It is attracting attention as a new proposal that will expand the enjoyment of travel, not only for everyday use but also for touring while traveling. However, the release date has not yet been decided.
Production and sales plan | Global expansion with production in Thailand
The new Land Cruiser FJ will be produced at the Ban Pho Plant in Thailand and supplied to global markets, including Japan. The IMV platform has been produced in Thailand and Indonesia for many years and has earned a high level of trust as a vehicle that is firmly rooted in local lifestyles.
The target markets are expected to be Japan, Africa, Central and South America, and Asian countries. Many of these regions have narrow roads, and there has been a strong demand for a Land Cruiser that is both compact and economically more affordable. The compact new FJ is also expected to be a valuable addition to professional mountain security forces.
It is scheduled to go on sale in Japan in mid-2026, and is expected to be priced more affordably than the Land Cruiser 250. Considering that the VX grade of the Land Cruiser 250 is priced at 5.45 million yen, the price will be an interesting point to watch when it is officially announced.
There are no plans to launch this vehicle in the US market, and Toyota has stated that “there are currently no plans to introduce this vehicle to the North American market.”
Land Cruiser series lineup
With the introduction of the new FJ, the Land Cruiser series will consist of the following four models:
Land Cruiser 300 Series : This flagship station wagon incorporates the latest technology and is a premium model that also serves as a luxury SUV.
Land Cruiser 70 Series : A heavy-duty model with high durability and ease of maintenance, it is a workhorse. Its practical design makes it ideal for professional use.
Land Cruiser 250 Series : A core model that returns to its roots, pursuing simplicity and robustness to support the lifestyles and practicality of customers. The new generation Land Cruiser was born in 2024.
Land Cruiser FJ : This latest model offers the reliability, durability, and off-road capability that underpin people’s lives, plus the new value of “Freedom & Joy,” giving you the freedom to enjoy it in your own way.
Each model has its own distinct personality, making for a diverse lineup that meets the needs of a wide range of users.
Actual vehicle unveiled at Japan Mobility Show 2025
The new Land Cruiser FJ will be exhibited at the Toyota booth at the Japan Mobility Show 2025, which will be held at Tokyo Big Sight (Koto-ku, Tokyo) from Thursday, October 30th to Sunday, November 9th, 2025.
Event Schedule:
- October 29-30: Press Day
- October 31st: Special invitation day, etc.
- November 1st-9th: Open to the public
In addition to the standard model, the venue will also feature an overseas customization model with round headlights, allowing visitors to see firsthand the diverse customization possibilities. This will be a great opportunity to see and touch the actual vehicle and experience the new appeal of the Land Cruiser family.
Summary | The new era of Land Cruiser paves the way to the future
The new Land Cruiser FJ is a groundbreaking model that inherits the reliability of “a car that can go anywhere and come back alive” that has been cultivated over more than 70 years of history, while proposing a new value called “Freedom & Joy” (the freedom to enjoy yourself in your own way).
The new FJ combines easy maneuverability thanks to its compact body, reliability thanks to the proven IMV platform, serious off-road performance, and a wealth of customization options, opening up the world of Land Cruiser to even more people and providing the door to new adventures.
With the Japanese release scheduled for mid-2026, attention will be focused on further details. We await the official announcement of the price, detailed grades, options, and more. Be sure to see for yourself the beginning of a new chapter in the Land Cruiser’s history.
Reference information:
