[Released in 2026] Land Cruiser FJ Review: Interior and Exterior Appeals and Important Points to Note

1. Minimum ground clearance of 200mm or more

The Land Cruiser FJ has a minimum ground clearance of 200mm or more, demonstrating its performance as a full-fledged off-road vehicle. This is higher than the Land Cruiser 250 (approximately 200mm for the VX grade), making it excellent for off-road driving.

2. Short Wheelbase

The short wheelbase of 2,580 mm achieves a minimum turning radius of 5.5 m. Considering that the Land Cruiser 250 and Land Cruiser 300 are over 6.0 m, the FJ’s maneuverability stands out. Surprisingly, it is even more maneuverable than the Suzuki Jimny Nomad (5.7 m).

3. Distinctive Grille and Headlights

Two face designs are available for the FJ:

• Round type : A retro and cute impression. It best expresses the unique character of the FJ, and has been highly praised by many reviewers.
• Square-type : A bold impression similar to the Land Cruiser 250. A more modern and powerful appearance.

Personally, I feel that a round grille is more suitable for the FJ concept. The front grille has a three-dimensional cube-shaped texture, but there is a concern that it will easily collect dust when washing the car.

4. Extensive Use of Resin Parts

Resin parts are used throughout the car, including the door lowers, fender arch moldings, and side sills. This is a practical choice for off-road use, and it’s proof that the car can be used wildly without worrying about scratches or dirt.

1. Thick C-pillars and rear visibility

The FJ’s distinctive C-pillars are very thick and can affect rear visibility. The rear glass is designed to be only the upper half, with the lower half being part of the body. When we inspected the actual vehicle, we confirmed that the C-pillars are indeed thick and that there is a large blind spot when looking backward through the door mirrors. However, the vehicle is equipped with a camera on the back to assist with rear visibility. However, the vehicle is not equipped with a digital mirror, so this should be confirmed during a test drive before purchasing.

2. Differences in bumper shape

: The round and square bumper shapes are also different. The round bumper has a more aggressive design with diagonal cuts, making it excellent for approach angles. On the other hand, the square bumper has a squared design. If you prioritize off-road performance, we recommend the round bumper.

1. A simple, easy-to-operate layout.

The meter uses a 7-inch LCD, and the display audio uses a 12.3-inch widescreen screen. It shares parts with the Land Cruiser 250, and the basic layout is the same.

2. Large Shift Knob

While shift knobs are becoming smaller in recent cars, the FJ uses a traditional large, straight type, ensuring reliable operation even when driving off-road.

3. Mechanical handbrake:

Instead of an electric parking brake, a pull-type mechanical handbrake is used, a practical choice that avoids electronic problems and is highly praised by off-road enthusiasts.

4. Full-scale off-road equipment

• Transfer lever with Land Cruiser logo (Hi/Lo switching)
• rear differential lock switch
• Hill Descent Control
• 2nd gear start function
• Traction control on/off switch

1. The interior quality is commensurate with the price.

Even considering that the expected price is around 3.8 million to 4.5 million yen, the interior quality is by no means luxurious. Many parts are finished with hard plastic, and the texture of the material is noticeable even compared to the Land Cruiser 250.

• Inside the door: The elbow rests and armrests are softly padded, but the rest is hard plastic.
• Dashboard: Some soft padding on top, but mostly hard plastic
• Center console area: very simple, almost no decorative elements

However, this is a choice that prioritizes durability for off-road driving, and can be seen as a result of prioritizing practicality over luxury.

2. Omission of equipment

• Seat ventilation: Not installed
• Paddle shift: Not installed
• Electric telescoping/tilting: Not installed
• Digital mirror: Not installed

These comfort features have been omitted, so those expecting an urban SUV may find it disappointing.

3. Dual air conditioning The car

is equipped with dual air conditioning that allows independent temperature control for the left and right sides, but it is operated with a dial. While it is easy to operate, those who are used to touch panels may find it outdated.

• Driver’s seat: Electric power seat
• Heated seats: Standard equipment for driver and passenger seats
• Steering wheel heater: Equipped
• Material: Synthetic leather for wild use

• Passenger seat: manual seat (not electric)
• Seat material: Synthetic leather, not genuine leather
• Design: Simple and minimal decorative elements

1. The distance between the floor and the seat is sufficient.

The distance between the rear seat and the floor is sufficient, providing ample legroom. Your feet fit under the front seats, reducing cramping around the knees.

2. Seatback pockets

Both the driver’s seat and passenger seat are equipped with seatback pockets, which are convenient for storing small items.

3. Reclining function

The rear seats can be reclined to a considerable angle, ensuring comfort during long-distance travel.

1. Narrow knee space:

With a total length of 4,575 mm and a wheelbase of 2,580 mm, the knee space in the rear seats is about the size of a fist. This is about the same as the Toyota Corolla Cross, and it feels noticeably narrower than the Vezel or Land Cruiser 250.

2. Difficulty getting in and out

• The door opening is narrow
• The floor is high (requiring side steps)
• No assist grip on the A-pillar

These factors make getting in and out of the back seat less than comfortable, especially for the elderly and children.

3. Center tunnel overhang

Because of the frame structure, the center tunnel overhangs and the floor is not flat. When three people are riding, the middle seat will be less comfortable.

4. Simplification of equipment

• Armrest: None
• Rear air conditioning vent: None
• Room lamp: LED but simple design

1. Large cargo space

The cargo space is square, easy to use, and has ample capacity. The floor is flat, so even tall items can be loaded upright.

2. The rear gate opens to the side

, just like the Land Cruiser Prado. It can be fixed at any angle with a damper and can open to more than 90 degrees.

3. Practicality of the rear tire:

Equipping the spare tire on the rear provides peace of mind in case of a flat tire. It also creates an off-road vehicle-like appearance.

4. Small overhang of the wheelhouse

Because the floor is positioned high, the overhang of the wheelhouse is kept relatively small, achieving a square luggage compartment shape.

5. MOLLE system compatible (optional)

MOLLE system compatible accessories that can be attached to luggage will be available, allowing for excellent customization.

1. The floor is high

. With a ground clearance of over 200mm, the floor of the luggage compartment is also high. Loading and unloading heavy luggage may be difficult. This is particularly unsuitable for elderly people.

2. No tumble function

The rear seats can be folded forward, but they do not have a tumble function (to flip up the seat surface). They cannot be made fully flat, so you will need to use some ingenuity if you want to sleep in the car.

3. Disadvantages of side-opening doors

• It cannot serve as a roof in rainy weather.
• There needs to be ample space behind
• It is a little heavy due to the rear tire.

Compared to the top-opening Land Cruiser 300, it is less convenient in rainy weather.

4. Storage space under the luggage compartment is limited.

The underfloor storage space is only large enough for a tire repair kit, and it is not possible to conceal and store large items.

1. Proven Engine

The 2TR-FE engine is a proven engine that has been in use for approximately 20 years. It has been installed in many vehicles, including the Land Cruiser Prado (old model) and Hiace. It is highly reliable and has a well-established maintenance system.

2. Lightweight body

The vehicle weight is approximately 2,040 kg (estimated), which is approximately 200 kg lighter than the Land Cruiser 250 (2,240 kg and up). This weight reduction allows for sufficient driving performance even with the 2.7L engine.

3. Simple mechanism

• 6-speed automatic: Orthodox but highly reliable
• Part-time 4WD: Simple structure and fewer breakdowns
• Common parts: Shares platform with Hilux, Land Cruiser 70, etc.

1. Off-road capability

• Minimum ground clearance 200mm or more
• Short wheelbase (2,580 mm)
• Large diameter all-terrain tires (265/65R17 or 265/60R18)
• Excellent approach and departure angles
• Rear differential lock function

This allows for serious off-road driving.

2. Robustness of ladder frame structure

The ladder frame construction provides high torsional rigidity and excellent durability on rough roads.

1. Ride comfort on paved roads

The “soft ride” that was also noted with the Land Cruiser 250 may be similar or even more pronounced with the FJ.

reason:

• Off-road suspension settings
• Large diameter tires (thick tires)
• Ladder frame structure

Symptoms of concern:

• Shaking sensation during long-distance driving
• Car sickness in the back seat
• Susceptible to crosswinds on highways

2. Road noise:

When all-terrain tires are installed, road noise tends to be louder on paved roads.

3. Difficulty in handling (in some scenes)

• The minimum turning radius of 5.5m is excellent, but the overall height of 1,960mm means it may not fit into a multi-story parking garage.
• The side steps make the overall width feel substantially wider.
• The vehicle is high, so getting in and out takes some getting used to

4. Handling:

Due to the part-time 4WD and off-road-oriented suspension, you cannot expect crisp handling on paved roads. The handling will be completely different from that of urban SUVs like the Corolla Cross and RAV4.

1. People who want to enjoy serious off-road driving

• His hobbies include camping, fishing, and forest road driving.
• Frequent driving on snowy or rough roads
• Enjoy part-time 4WD operation

1. People who like the world of the Land Cruiser

• People want cars as tools
• Emphasis on practicality and durability over luxury
• I’m interested in the Land Cruiser brand, but the 250 and 300 are out of my budget.

1. People who want a unique SUV

• I’m attracted to the round design
• I like the wild style of the rear tire.
• I want to drive a different car than other people

1. Those who use it mainly as a driver

• I rarely use the back seat
• Mainly for one or two passengers
• There are many opportunities to carry a lot of luggage

1. People who want to enjoy mechanical operation

• I find the operation of the transfer lever fascinating.
• I like mechanical handbrakes
• I trust mechanical controls more than electronic controls.

1. Those who mainly ride on paved roads

• Mainly used in urban areas
• High use of expressways
• Rarely do off-road driving
  
  → Corolla Cross, RAV4, Harrier, etc. are suitable

1. People who frequently use the back seat

• Parenting generation (using child seats)
• There are many three-generational migrations
• If adults frequently ride in the back seat
  
  , the Vezel, Land Cruiser 250, Alphard, etc. are suitable.

1. Those seeking luxury and comfort

• Paying attention to the texture of the interior
• Want a quiet and comfortable journey?
• If you want to use the latest electronic equipment
  
  , the Land Cruiser 250, Land Cruiser 300, or Lexus GX are suitable.

1. People who prioritize ease of boarding and disembarking

• There are many opportunities to carry elderly people
• I have a family member with a disability
• Children frequently get in and out of the car
  
  → A low-floor minivan or urban SUV is suitable

1. Those who want to avoid the complexities of 4WD

• “Switching between 4WD modes” feels like a hassle
• I want peace of mind with 4WD all the time
• Automatic 4WD control
  
  → Full-time 4WD or electronically controlled 4WD vehicles are suitable

• Part-time 4WD operation
• How to switch between 2WD and 4WD
• Behavior in curves in 4WD mode
• Transfer lever operation feel
• Ride comfort
• Shaking on paved roads
• Road noise level
• Rear seat comfort
• field of view
• Degree of blind spot caused by C-pillar
• Rear camera visibility
• Rear view in door mirrors
• Ease of getting in and out
• Ease of getting in and out for the driver
• Ease of getting in and out of the rear seats
• Is it safe for the elderly and children?