[2026 Edition] Toyota New Land Cruiser FJ vs. New RAV4: A Comprehensive Comparison and a Complete Guide to Which One to Choose

Among Toyota’s popular SUV lineup, the new Land Cruiser FJ, scheduled for release in 2026, and the new RAV4, which will undergo a full model change in December 2025, are both attractive options. However, these two SUVs have completely different characteristics.

FJ or RAV4: Which is best for you?

In this article, we’ll compare the two vehicles from every angle, including price, size, fuel economy, off-road performance, and comfort features. Whether you prioritize ease of use in urban areas or seek serious off-road performance, find the one that best suits your lifestyle.

1. Basic spec comparison table

Body size comparison

	Land Cruiser FJ	RAV4 (CORE)	RAV4 (ADVENTURE)	RAV4 (GR SPORT)
full length	4,575mm	4,600mm	4,620mm	4,645mm
Overall width	1,855mm	1,855mm	1,880mm	1,880mm
Overall height	1,960mm	1,680mm (HEV) / 1,685mm (PHEV)	1,680mm	1,685mm
Wheelbase	2,580mm	2,690mm	2,690mm	2,690mm
Minimum turning radius	5.5m	5.5m to 5.7m	5.7m	5.7m

Powertrain comparison

item	Land Cruiser FJ	RAV4 HEV	RAV4 PHEV
engine	2.7L inline 4-cylinder (2TR-FE)	2.5L inline 4-cylinder + motor	2.5L inline 4-cylinder + motor
Maximum power	163PS/120kW	229PS (FF) / 239PS (E-Four)	324PS + 18PS
Maximum torque	246Nm	–	–
transmission	6-speed AT (Super ECT)	CVT	CVT
Drive system	4WD (part-time 4WD)	FF / E-Four	E-Four
Fuel economy (WLTC)	13.0km/L	22.5km/L	23.5km/L
0-100km/h acceleration	–	8.1 seconds	5.8 seconds

あわせて読みたい

Toyota’s new RAV4 will be fully redesigned and released on December 17, 2025. The sixth-generation model will feature the latest “Hammerhead” design. トヨタを代表する人気SUV、RAV4が6代目へとフルモデルチェンジを果たし、2025年5月21日に発表しました。待望の日本国内での発売時期については、公式には「2025年度内」…

あわせて読みたい

A Complete Guide to the New Toyota Land Cruiser “FJ” | Latest Information on the Featured SUV Scheduled for Release in 2026 トヨタ自動車は2025年10月21日、新型「ランドクルーザー”FJ”」を世界初公開しました。70年以上の歴史を持つランドクルーザーシリーズに加わる第4のモデルとして、2026年…

2. Price range comparison

Land Cruiser FJ: Estimated price from 3.8 million yen

• Entry model: Approximately 3.8 million yen
• Simple and practical equipment
• The most entry-level model in the Land Cruiser series

RAV4: 4.2 million to 6.7 million yen

• CORE HEV E-Four: Approx. 4.2 million yen
• CORE PHEV E-Four: Approximately 6 million yen
• ADVENTURE HEV: Approx. 4.5 million yen
• GR SPORT PHEV: Approximately 6.7 million yen

3. Comparison of size and handling

Differences in overall length and width

The decisive difference in overall height

Interior space and wheelbase

4. Comparison of off-road performance

Land Cruiser FJ full-fledged 4WD

Part-time 4WD system:

• H2 (rear-wheel drive): Normal driving
• H4 (4-wheel drive): Rough road driving
• L4 (4-wheel drive low speed): Extremely bad roads and steep gradients

Off-road equipment:

• High ground clearance
• Sturdy ladder frame construction
• Full-scale approach and departure angles
• Rough road performance equivalent to the Land Cruiser 70

FJ is good at:

• Driving on forest roads and unpaved roads
• Off-road driving on riverbanks and beaches
• Access to ski resorts and campgrounds
• Driving in snowy areas
• Transportation during a disaster

RAV4 E-Four (electric 4WD)

E-Four (electric 4WD) system:

• Rear wheels driven by a motor
• Automatically switches to 4WD on slippery roads
• Excellent fuel economy at high speeds

Drive Mode Select:

• MUD & SAND: Mud and sand mode
• ROCK & DIRT: Rocky and Dirt Mode
• SNOW: Snowy road mode

RAV4 excels in:

• Daily use mainly on paved roads
• Long distance travel on the highway
• Mildly rough roads (gravel roads, snowy roads, etc.)
• Driving in urban areas
• Outdoor leisure (paved road access)

Conclusion on off-road performance

Who should choose FJ?

• I want to enjoy serious off-road driving
• Frequently driving on forest roads and unpaved roads
• Outdoor hobbies are the focus
• Living in an area that snows in winter

RAV4 for:

• Mostly paved roads, but occasionally rough roads
• Finding a balance between fuel economy and off-road capability
• I want to experience the latest electric 4WD technology
• Ease of use in urban areas is also important

5. Comparison of fuel efficiency

The overwhelmingly superior RAV4 Hybrid

RAV4 HEV (Hybrid):

• WLTC fuel economy: 22.5km/L
• Excellent fuel economy, especially in urban areas
• Annual fuel costs: Approximately 130,000 yen (if driving 10,000 km per year)

RAV4 PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid):

• WLTC fuel economy: 23.5km/L
• EV range: 150km (+65km compared to previous model)
• Battery capacity: 22.7 kWh (30% increase over previous model)
• Commuting and everyday use can be almost entirely powered by electricity
• If you have charging facilities, you can have zero fuel costs
• Annual fuel costs: Approximately 60,000 yen (when charging is also used)

Land Cruiser FJ:

• WLTC fuel economy: 13.0km/L
• 2.7L gasoline engine only
• Annual fuel costs: Approximately 180,000 yen (if driving 10,000 km per year)

Difference in annual maintenance fee

Annual fuel costs assuming gasoline price of 180 yen/L (driving 10,000 km per year):

• FJ: Approximately 180,000 yen (13.0km/L)
• RAV4 HEV: Approximately 133,000 yen (22.5km/L) → Difference of 47,000 yen
• RAV4 PHEV: Approximately 60,000 to 120,000 yen (including charging) → Difference of 60,000 to 120,000 yen

Fuel cost difference over 10 years:

• Difference between FJ and RAV4 HEV: Approximately 470,000 yen
• Difference between FJ and RAV4 PHEV: Approximately 600,000 to 1.2 million yen

Conclusion on fuel efficiency

• For those who commute long distances → RAV4 PHEV : Electric driving means zero fuel costs
• For those who drive mostly in urban areas → RAV4 HEV : Hybrid is the most efficient
• Prioritize off-road performance over fuel economy → FJ : Although fuel economy may be somewhat poor, the peace of mind of a full-fledged 4WD

6. Comparison of comfort and safety features

RAV4 advanced features

Powered by Arene OS:

• Next-generation infotainment system
• Intuitive touchscreen operation
• Smartphone connectivity function

display:

• 10.5-inch/12.9-inch touch display
• 12.3-inch digital meter
• Head-up display (HUD)

OTA (Over-The-Air) Update:

• Automatic software updates
• Always have the latest features
• Update without going to the dealer

3D Panoramic View Monitor (PVM):

• Three-dimensional display of the vehicle’s surroundings
• Safe even in tight parking lots
• Visibility aid when driving off-road

Toyota Safety Sense:

• Pre-crash Safety
• Lane Tracing Assist
• Radar cruise control
• Road Sign Assist

Charging function:

• 2 x USB-C ports (maximum 45W)
• Wireless charging compatible
• AC100V power supply (PHEV)

Land Cruiser FJ practical equipment

Simple equipment configuration:

• Minimum necessary comfort equipment
• Low risk of breakdown
• Easy maintenance

Toyota Safety Sense:

• Basic safety equipment is provided
• Pre-crash Safety
• Lane Departure Alert

Practical equipment:

• 5-seater
• 12V power supply
• USB-C terminal
• Air conditioning

Off-road equipment:

• Durable interior
• Easy-to-clean material
• Simple controls

Conclusion on comfort equipment

RAV4 for:

• I want to experience the latest technology
• I want to enjoy a comfortable long-distance drive
• Emphasis on smartphone connectivity
• A car with a full range of advanced safety features is safer

Who should choose FJ?

• Simple equipment is enough
• Emphasis on low risk of failure
• Looking for ease of maintenance
• Prioritizing practicality as a tool

7. Design and Styling Comparison

Land Cruiser FJ: Tough Heritage Design

Exterior Features:

• Round headlights that pay homage to the FJ40
• Vertical front grille
• Angular body lines
• Intimidating due to its high overall height
• Inheriting the DNA of the Land Cruiser 70

Interior Features:

• Simple design with emphasis on practicality
• Durable materials
• Highly visible meters
• Easy-to-clean interior

Color options:

• Unreleased (awaiting announcement)
• Expected color lineup for outdoor use

RAV4: Sleek, modern design

Exterior Features:

• LED triple headlight
• Dynamic front mask
• Three-dimensional body line
• Differences in personality depending on the grade

Graded Design:

• CORE : A simple and smart urban SUV
• ADVENTURE : Active design with an outdoor feel
• GR SPORT : Sporty and powerful style

Interior Features:

• A futuristic design centered around a large display
• High-quality material feel
• Special seats for each grade
• Ambient Light

Color options:

• CORE: 8 colors
• ADVENTURE: 9 colors including exclusive colors
• GR SPORT: 7 colors including sports colors

Design Conclusion

Who should choose FJ?

• I like the tough SUV-like design.
• I’m attracted to heritage design
• Looking for a unique style
• I like simple interiors

RAV4 for:

• I like modern and sophisticated designs
• Choose from a wide range of colors and grades
• I’m impressed by the cutting-edge interior
• Looking for urban style

8. Comparison of usability and practicality

Convenience for everyday use

Multi-storey car park compatibility:

• FJ: Overall height 1,960mm → Often unable to fit into multi-story parking garages
• RAV4: Overall height 1,680-1,685mm → Suitable for most multi-story parking garages

Ease of entry and exit:

• FJ: High ground clearance → The step is high, making it inconvenient for small people and the elderly
• RAV4: Moderate height → Easy for anyone to get in and out

Field of View:

• FJ: High seating position for good visibility
• RAV4: Good visibility from the A-pillar, 3D PVM assists blind spots

Luggage space and loading capacity

RAV4:

• Luggage capacity: 733-749L
• 60:40 split folding rear seats
• Flat luggage compartment floor
• Wide luggage compartment opening

FJ:

• Cargo capacity: Undisclosed (awaiting announcement)
• Simple luggage compartment structure
• Made with stain-resistant materials
• Ideal for carrying outdoor gear

Fuel tank and range

FJ:

• Fuel tank capacity: Undisclosed
• Cruising range: Expected to be around 650km (with a 50L tank)

RAV4 HEV:

• Fuel tank capacity: 55L
• Cruising range: Approximately 1,237 km (22.5 km/L x 55 L)

RAV4 PHEV:

• Fuel tank capacity: 55L
• EV range: 150km
• Gasoline + EV range: Approximately 1,442 km

Conclusion of practicality

Who should choose FJ?

• Do not use multi-story parking lots
• Frequent carrying of dirty luggage
• Lots of outdoor gear
• I don’t care about the number of times I need to refuel

RAV4 for:

• Frequently use multi-story parking lots
• Frequently travels long distances (cruising range is important)
• A car that is easy for anyone to get in and out of is best.
• Needs spacious luggage space

9. Recommendations by target demographic and lifestyle

Who is the Land Cruiser FJ recommended for?

1. Serious outdoorsy people:

• Hobbies include camping, fishing, and surfing
• Frequent travel on forest roads and unpaved roads
• Seeking toughness as a tool

2. For those living in areas with heavy snowfall:

• Areas with heavy snowfall in winter
• There are many opportunities to drive on roads that have not yet been cleared of snow.
• You need the peace of mind of a full-fledged 4WD

3. Simplicity:

• The bare minimum of equipment is sufficient
• Emphasis on low risk of failure
• Looking for ease of maintenance

4. Land Cruiser Fans:

• Love the brand’s history and tradition
• I’m attracted to heritage design
• Emphasis on the joy of ownership

5. For those on a budget:

• Land Cruiser available for purchase from 3.8 million yen
• Save your budget for customization

Who is the RAV4 recommended for?

1. Urban dwellers:

• Frequent use of multi-story parking lots
• There are many opportunities to drive on narrow roads
• Emphasis on good fuel economy

2. Long-distance commuters:

• Long daily commute
• Want to reduce fuel costs?
• I want to use PHEV (electric driving)

3. Family demographic:

• I want to enjoy a comfortable family trip
• Emphasis on rear seat comfort
• I want to protect my family with advanced safety equipment

4. Tech-lovers:

• Interested in Arene OS and OTA updates
• I want to use a large display or HUD
• I want to experience advanced driving assistance features

5. Light outdoorsy:

• Camping and skiing a few times a year
• Mainly on paved roads, but occasionally on rough roads
• Emphasis on comfort for everyday use

Recommendations by life stage

Singles and young people:

• FJ: People who want to enjoy their hobbies to the fullest.
• RAV4: For those seeking balance

Newlyweds/DINKS:

• FJ: Couples enjoying the outdoors
• RAV4: Enjoy a comfortable trip

Parenting generation:

• FJ: Outdoor education with children
• RAV4: Protect your family with comprehensive safety features

Seniors:

• FJ: Active seniors who live for their hobbies
• RAV4: Emphasis on ease of entry and exit and comfort

10. Comparison with competing models

Positioning within the Land Cruiser series

	FJ	70	250	300
Price range	From 3.8 million yen	From 4.8 million yen	5.2 million to 7.35 million yen	5.25 to 8.13 million yen
Minimum turning radius	5.5m	6.3m	6.0m	5.9m
fuel economy	13.0km/L	10.1km/L	7.5 to 11.0 km/L	7.9-9.7km/L
Features	Entry/Urban	A genuine, authentic 4WD	Equipped with the latest technology	Flagship

FJ’s position:

• The most affordable price in the series
• No.1 in ease of use in urban areas
• Land Cruiser entry-level model

RAV4 competitors

Domestic SUV:

• Honda CR-V: Close to the price range, but no longer on sale
• Mazda CX-5: Diesel is attractive
• Nissan X-Trail: Equipped with e-POWER
• Subaru Forester: AWD performance is well-known

Toyota internal competition:

• Harrier: Luxury
• Crown Crossover: Premium SUV
• Corolla Cross: Compact and easy to handle

11. Important points to note and checkpoints when purchasing

Things to note when purchasing a Land Cruiser FJ

1. Delivery time:

• Scheduled for release in 2026
• The Land Cruiser series tends to have long delivery times.
• There is a possibility that it will take 1-2 years after release

2. Test drive:

• Test rides not available as it is not yet on sale
• You can experience a similar sensation with the Land Cruiser 70
• An actual vehicle will be exhibited at the Japan Mobility Show in October 2025

3. Customization:

• Simple equipment allows for great customization fun
• Plenty of off-road parts
• It is also recommended to leave some budget aside for customization.

4. Resale Value:

• The Land Cruiser brand has a high resale value
• The initial lot is especially popular
• Even unpopular colors are unlikely to lose value

Things to consider when purchasing a RAV4

1. Grade selection:

• Price difference between HEV and PHEV: 1.8 million yen
• If you have a charging environment, a PHEV is by far the best option.
• Check whether subsidies are available

2. Discounts:

• There are few discounts immediately after a full model change
• Price discounts are expected to increase from the end of 2025 to 2026 due to competition with rival models
• If there is an older RAV4 in stock, there is a chance of a big discount.

3. Delivery time:

• Most deliveries are expected to occur between December 2025 and March 2026.
• PHEVs tend to have long delivery times
• Early ordering is recommended

4. Charging environment:

• When purchasing a PHEV, it is essential to check the charging equipment at home.
• V2H (Vehicle to Home) compatibility ensures power supply during disasters
• Check the location of charging stations using the app

12. Overall Evaluation and Summary

Land Cruiser FJ overall rating

RAV4 overall rating

Final conclusion: which one should you choose?

13. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which has better resale value: the FJ or the RAV4?

The Land Cruiser FJ tends to have a higher resale value, but the RAV4 is also a popular model, so its value does not drop dramatically.

When can I test drive the FJ?

Test drives are expected to be available around the time of its release in 2026. The actual vehicle will be exhibited at the Japan Mobility Show in October 2025.

Should you choose the RAV4 PHEV or HEV?

If you have a charging station at home and mainly travel less than 50km per day, then a PHEV is recommended. If you don’t have a charging station or travel long distances, then a HEV is recommended.

Can the FJ be used as a family car?

It seats five people and has a large enough luggage space, making it suitable as a family car. However, its amenities are inferior to those of the RAV4.

Is the RAV4 weak on snowy roads?

The E-Four (electric 4WD) system performs well on snowy roads, but is inferior to the FJ’s part-time 4WD in deep snow and on icy roads.

How much does it cost to maintain an FJ?

Annual maintenance costs (fuel, taxes, insurance, and vehicle inspection fees) are expected to be around 400,000 to 500,000 yen, which is expected to be 50,000 to 100,000 yen more expensive than the RAV4 HEV.

14. Release Date and Latest Information

Q7. What is the delivery time for the RAV4?

A. After the full model change in December 2025, delivery is expected to be 6 to 12 months. The PHEV may take even longer.

Land Cruiser FJ:

• Release date: 2026 (details TBA)
• Actual vehicle exhibit at Japan Mobility Show 2025 (October)
• Pre-order start date: expected to be late 2025 to early 2026

RAV4:

• Full model change: May 21, 2025 (announcement), December 17, 2025 (release)
• Delivery start: December 2025 to March 2026
• Already accepting reservations

あわせて読みたい

Toyota’s new RAV4 will be fully redesigned and released on December 17, 2025. The sixth-generation model will feature the latest “Hammerhead” design. トヨタを代表する人気SUV、RAV4が6代目へとフルモデルチェンジを果たし、2025年5月21日に発表しました。待望の日本国内での発売時期については、公式には「2025年度内」…

summary

The new Toyota Land Cruiser FJ and the new RAV4 are in the same SUV category, but they have completely different personalities.

The FJ is an “SUV as a tool” that boasts serious off-road performance and a tough design. Starting at just 3.8 million yen, it’s a valuable model that allows you to get your hands on the Land Cruiser brand.

The RAV4 is an “urban SUV” that offers excellent fuel economy, the latest technology, and a full range of comfortable features. The PHEV model in particular has an incredible 150km cruising range, meaning it can be driven on an everyday basis with almost no fuel costs.

Choose the vehicle that best suits your lifestyle, environment, and budget. Whichever you choose, you’re guaranteed Toyota quality and reliability.

Thank you for reading to the end. I hope this article will be helpful when choosing your favorite car.

Related articles:

• Complete Guide to the New Toyota Land Cruiser FJ
• Toyota New RAV4 Full Model Change Details
• RAV4 Size Comparison Guide