The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ, scheduled for release in 2026 , and the Suzuki Jimny Nomad, released in 2025 , are both garnering attention as compact, full-fledged off-road vehicles, but there are significant differences in price range, performance, and concept. In this article, we’ll thoroughly compare the features of both vehicles to help you find the one that best suits your needs.
The birth of two compact SUVs Comparison of the vehicle’s basic concepts
Toyota Land Cruiser FJ: A new generation cruiser that embodies Freedom & Joy
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ
The Land Cruiser FJ is based on the concept of “Freedom & Joy” and is positioned as the most compact and entry-level model in the Land Cruiser series. Its aim is to bring the joy of off-road driving to as many people as possible, while inheriting the Land Cruiser DNA that dates back to the BJ series, which was launched in 1951.
Suzuki Jimny Nomad: 5-door design significantly improves practicality
The Jimny Nomad is a five-door model that converts the conventional three-door Jimny into a five-door, with a 340mm longer wheelbase, significantly improving interior space and cargo capacity. It is registered as a standard vehicle, exceeding the light vehicle standard, but it retains the Jimny’s authentic off-road performance while improving convenience for everyday use.
A thorough comparison of key specifications
Body size comparison
| item | Land Cruiser FJ | Jimny Nomad 5-door | difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| full length | 4,575mm | 3,965mm | FJ is 610mm longer |
| Overall width | 1,855mm | 1,645mm | FJ is 210mm wider |
| Overall height | 1,960mm | 1,720mm | FJ is 240mm higher |
| Wheelbase | 2,580mm | 2,590mm | Nomad is 10mm longer |
| Minimum turning radius | 5.5m | 5.7m | FJ is 0.2m smaller |
Key points:
- Although the FJ has a slightly larger body, its minimum turning radius is smaller than the Nomad, making it easier to handle.
- The Nomad is compact, measuring less than 4m in length, making it a great choice for narrow roads and parking lots.
- The FJ’s 1,855mm width requires caution on narrow forest roads, while the Nomad’s 1,645mm makes it more maneuverable.
Engine and powertrain comparison
| item | Land Cruiser FJ | Jimny Nomad 5-door |
|---|---|---|
| engine | 2.7L inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine | 1.5L inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine |
| Maximum power | 163PS (120kW) | 102PS (75kW) |
| Maximum torque | 246Nm | 130Nm (13.3kgf m) |
| transmission | 6 speed AT | 5-speed MT/4-speed AT |
| Drive system | Part-time 4WD | Part-time 4WD |
| Fuel economy (WLTC) | 13.0km/L | 13.6km/L (4-speed AT) 14.9km/L (5-speed MT) |
Practicality of power difference:
- The FJ has approximately 1.6 times the power and torque, making it ideal for high-speed driving and carrying heavy loads.
- The Nomad has a lightweight body (approximately 1,100 kg) and provides sufficient power.
- The Nomad has the advantage in fuel economy and running costs for everyday use.
4WD system comparison
Land Cruiser FJ:
- Three modes available: H2 (rear-wheel drive), H4 (4WD high speed), and L4 (4WD low speed)
- Toyota’s traditional, robust part-time 4WD system
- Suitable for serious off-road driving
Jimny Nomad:
- Three modes: 2H (rear-wheel drive), 4H (4WD high speed), and 4L (4WD low speed)
- Part-time 4WD with auxiliary transmission
- Ladder frame structure for high durability
Similarities and differences:
Both vehicles feature full-fledged part-time 4WD, making them highly capable off-roaders. The FJ is larger and heavier, meaning it has more torque and excels at traversing deep mud and steep grades. The Nomad is lightweight and compact, making it highly maneuverable on narrow trails and rocky terrain.
Price range and affordability
Land Cruiser FJ: Entry price of 3.8 million yen
- Estimated price: Approximately 3.8 million yen
- Positioning: Lowest price in the Land Cruiser series
- Reference: 70 series from 4.8 million yen, 250 series from 5.2 million to 7.35 million yen
Things to consider when purchasing:
- Considering the waiting times for the 250 and 300, the FJ may be delivered in a relatively short time.
- As of October 2025, advance exhibits have already begun, attracting a lot of attention.
- Although it is an entry-level model, it comes standard with the latest safety equipment (Toyota Safety Sense).
Jimny Nomad: Affordable price of 2.65-2.75 million yen
- Actual selling price: FC 5MT 2,651,000 yen / FC 4AT 2,750,000 yen
- Production volume: 3,300 units per month from July 2025
- Delivery time: Approximately 4 months as of January 2024 (improvement expected in 2025)
Cost-performance analysis:
- It can be purchased for about 1,000,000 to 1,150,000 yen cheaper than the FJ
- With a monthly production capacity of 3,300 units, delivery times tend to be relatively short
- There are fewer tax benefits to registering a standard car, but the initial investment can be reduced.
Passenger capacity and practicality comparison
Land Cruiser FJ: Not compatible with 5-passenger + 3-row seats
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ
- Passenger capacity: 5 people
- The rear seat is spacious enough to seat two adults comfortably.
- No third-row seating available (7-seater option available for 250/300)
- Luggage space is compact but sufficient
Daily use rating:
- A five-seater is enough for families
- Not suitable for large groups or for use by three generations
- The luggage compartment can accommodate weekend camping and outdoor gear.
Jimny Nomad: 5-seater + significantly improved cargo capacity
- Passenger capacity: 4 people
- The rear seat is ideal for 2 adults and 1 child
- 415mm from the back of the second row seats to the luggage compartment (340mm longer than the 3-door model)
- VDA method with 4 passengers: 152L, with 2 passengers: Large capacity
The truth of practicality:
- It is possible to accommodate five people, but the middle rear seat is difficult to fit in on long distances.
- The extended wheelbase significantly improves rear legroom
- The luggage compartment can accommodate everything from everyday shopping to weekend leisure activities.
Equipment and comfort comparison
Land Cruiser FJ: Simple and sufficient equipment
Standard equipment:
- 12.3-inch display audio
- Toyota Safety Sense (3rd generation)
- Smart key & push start
- Automatic air conditioning
- USB Type-C/A charging port
- Specially designed LED headlights
FJ equipment features:
- Simple and robust design
- No EPB (electric parking brake) as discussed on social media = mechanical
- Emphasis on off-road performance, with minimal unnecessary electronic controls
Jimny Nomad: Full safety and comfort equipment
Standard equipment (FC grade):
- Suzuki Safety Support
- Dual Sensor Brake Support
- False start prevention function
- LED headlights (some grades)
- Manual air conditioner
- Power retractable remote control door mirrors
Nomad Note:
- ACC is only available for 4AT and operates from 40km/h or more (not compatible with MT)
- The equipment is practical and simple
- The Jimny’s appeal lies in its wide range of customization parts
Off-road performance comparison
Land Cruiser FJ: Toyota’s traditional off-road capability
Off-road performance highlights:
- Adopts IMV (Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle) platform
- Ground height approximately 210mm (estimated)
- Excellent approach and departure angles
- The 2.7L engine’s ample torque overcomes rough terrain
- High rigidity due to ladder frame structure
Suitable scenes:
- Deep muddy areas and river crossings
- Long-distance off-road touring
- Overland with heavy load
- Authentic cross-country riding
Jimny Nomad: Inheriting the legendary off-road capability
Off-road performance highlights:
- Ladder frame + rigid axle suspension
- Ground clearance 210mm (5 door)
- Approach angle 36°, ramp breakover angle 28°
- Departure angle 47°
- Lightweight and compact body that is strong on rocky terrain and narrow roads
Suitable scenes:
- Narrow forest roads and trails
- Rocky areas, steep slopes
- A highly technical and challenging course
- Agile off-road riding in solo or duo mode
Maintenance and running cost comparison
Annual maintenance cost simulation (assuming 10,000 km driven per year)
Land Cruiser FJ:
- Automobile tax: 36,000 yen (annual / total displacement over 1.5L to 2.0L)
- Fuel cost: Approximately 115,000 yen (13.0 km/L, gasoline 150 yen/L)
- Vehicle inspection fee: Approximately 80,000 to 100,000 yen (basic fee)
- Optional insurance: Approximately 80,000 to 120,000 yen (depending on age and grade)
- Annual total: Approximately 310,000 to 350,000 yen
Jimny Nomad:
- Automobile tax: 34,500 yen (annual/total engine displacement 1.5L or less)
- Fuel cost: Approximately 94,000 yen (assuming 16.0 km/L, gasoline 150 yen/L)
- Vehicle inspection fee: Approximately 60,000 to 80,000 yen (basic fee)
- Optional insurance: Approximately 70,000 to 100,000 yen (depending on age and grade)
- Annual total: Approximately 260,000 to 290,000 yen
Difference in maintenance costs:
The Nomad is about 50,000-60,000 yen cheaper per year, which translates to a difference of 250,000-300,000 yen over five years.
Which one should you choose? Key points for making a purchase decision
Who is the Land Cruiser FJ recommended for?
- I want to enjoy serious off-road driving
- Long distance overland touring
- Camping with heavy loads
- Looking for ample off-road performance
- I admire the Land Cruiser brand
- Over 70 years of history and reliability
- Resale value recognized worldwide
- Toyota’s robustness and durability
- Travel comfortably with family and friends
- Space for five people to ride comfortably
- Stability and comfort on the highway
- Reduce fatigue during long drives
- Have a comfortable budget
- Initial investment possible from 3.8 million yen
- A slight increase in maintenance costs is acceptable
Who is the Jimny Nomad recommended for?
- Emphasis on cost performance
- Want to keep initial costs down (2.65-2.75 million yen)
- Reduce total costs, including maintenance costs
- Monthly production of 3,300 units with relatively short delivery times
- Emphasis on maneuverability on narrow roads and in parking lots
- Compact, with a total length of less than 4m
- Maneuverability on narrow forest and mountain roads
- Convenient for everyday use in urban areas
- A technology-oriented off-roader
- Delicate driving that makes the most of the lightweight body
- Tackle challenging trails
- I want to enjoy driving a manual transmission
- I want to enjoy customization
- Abundant aftermarket parts
- Enhancing the Jimny community
- The joy of building your own unique bike
Weaknesses and points to note for both cars
Seven weaknesses of the Land Cruiser FJ
- No 3-row seating – not suitable for large families
- No EPB – Mechanical Parking Brake
- Price: 3.8 million yen – high even for an entry-level model
- Tends to be overshadowed by previous models (250/300) – Intra-brand competition
- Uncertain delivery time – Possibility of prolonged delivery depending on popularity
- Simplicity of equipment – minimal comfort
- Design preferences – FJ40-style retro design divides opinions
Jimny Nomad precautions
- Narrow space in the center of the rear seat – 5-person occupancy limited to short distances
- Limited engine power – overtaking and climbing at high speeds is difficult
- Even with five doors, the luggage space is limited – it’s difficult to load large items.
- ACC not installed (MT) – ACC cannot be used with MT (AT also over 40km/h)
- Noise when driving at high speeds – Loud engine and road noise
- Ride stiffness – Ride stiffness due to ladder frame
- Simplicity of equipment – Comfort equipment is kept to a minimum
- Uncertain resale value – 5-doors have a short history and future value is unknown
Summary: Which one is best for you?
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ and Suzuki Jimny Nomad are both compact SUVs with serious off-road capabilities, but their concepts and price ranges are very different.
The Land Cruiser FJ is perfect for those seeking the reliability, ample power, and comfort of the Land Cruiser brand. Starting at 3.8 million yen, it’s not cheap, but it’s well worth it for those looking to enjoy long-distance touring, family use, or serious off-road driving.
The Jimny Nomad is perfect for those who prioritize cost-effectiveness and maneuverability and want to easily enjoy the Jimny’s legendary off-road capabilities. Its affordable price starting at 2.65 million yen, freedom of customization, and compact size are major attractions.
Which one you choose depends on your purpose, your budget, and above all, your values regarding the kind of car life you want to enjoy. If possible, we recommend test driving both cars or checking out the display cars to get a feel for the actual feel before making a decision.
Related articles:
