The new Land Cruiser FJ, announced by Toyota on October 21, 2025, is the smallest model in the Land Cruiser series, developed under the concept of “Freedom & Joy.” Scheduled for release in Japan in July 2026, it is generating a lot of buzz as a noteworthy SUV that combines serious off-road performance with easy maneuverability in urban areas.
1. What is the Land Cruiser FJ? Full details of the new entry-level model
Background to the birth of the Land Cruiser FJ
In recent years, compact SUVs for rough roads, such as the Suzuki Jimny and Jimny Nomad, have been gaining popularity, and Toyota has decided to enter this market as well. Since previous large models such as the Land Cruiser 300, 250, and 70 had issues with usability in urban areas, the FJ was designed as an entry-level model that combined “affordable price” with “real off-road performance.”
The “FJ” in the model name pays homage to the famous 1960s car, the FJ40 Land Cruiser, and the FJ Cruiser sold in 2006.
2. Detailed analysis of price predictions: Is it possible to buy it for around 3 million yen?
Conclusion: Base grade is around 3.8 million yen, 3 million yen range is a tough prospect
Many automotive media and analysts predict that the price range for the new Land Cruiser FJ will be between 3.8 million and 4.5 million yen . Unfortunately, it will be difficult to purchase one for the low 3 million yen range .
Reasons for the prediction of 3.8 million to 4.5 million yen
(1) Price consistency with Toyota’s SUV lineup
Toyota has a clear pricing hierarchy and is careful to avoid price inversions between models.
| Model | Price range | positioning |
|---|---|---|
| Corolla Cross | 2.02 million yen to 3.29 million yen | City-style entry-level SUV |
| Land Cruiser FJ | 3.8 million to 4.5 million yen (estimated) | A genuine compact SUV |
| Harrier | 3.7 million to 4.8 million yen | Urban premium SUV |
| RAV4 | 3.24 million yen to 5.66 million yen | Mid-size SUV |
| Land Cruiser 70 | From 4.8 million yen | Heavy Duty |
| Land Cruiser 250 | 5.2 million yen to 7.35 million yen | A mid-class, full-fledged SUV |
| Land Cruiser 300 | 5.25 million yen to 8.13 million yen | Flagship SUV |
(2) The basis for the base grade price of 3.8 million yen
- Differentiation from the Corolla Cross : The Corolla Cross’s premium grade “Hybrid Z E-Four” costs 3,689,000 yen, so the FJ, which has more advanced equipment, needs to be priced at least 3,700,000 yen.
- Ladder frame structure : Unlike the Corolla Cross, which is built on a passenger car platform, the FJ uses a durable ladder frame structure, which makes it more expensive to manufacture.
- Differences in 4WD system : Due to the adoption of part-time 4WD, the mechanism is different from the Corolla Cross’s electronically controlled 4WD
(3) The rationale for the high-end grade of 4.2 million to 4.5 million yen
- Price difference with the Land Cruiser 70 : The cheapest grade of the 70 is 4.8 million yen, so there needs to be a price difference of at least 500,000 yen.
- Difference in engine performance : The FJ is equipped with a 2.7L gasoline engine (163ps), while the 70 is equipped with a 2.8L diesel turbo, and the difference in power performance is reflected in the price.
- Equipment and features : The higher-grade model is expected to come standard with a 12.3-inch display, Toyota Safety Sense 3, LED headlights, custom parts, and more.
Why is it difficult to get into the low 3 million yen range?
- High manufacturing costs
- Uses a ladder frame structure
- Full-fledged 4WD system (part-time)
- High ground clearance (240mm) and dedicated suspension
- Compatibility with competing models
- Setting the price in the low 3 million yen range will have a negative impact on sales of the Corolla Cross and RAV4.
- In order to maintain brand value, it is necessary to maintain a certain price range.
- The impact of inflation and the weak yen
- Although the company is trying to reduce costs by producing in Thailand, there is pressure for prices to rise due to the recent rise in prices and the weak yen.
Some people say it’s possible for the upper 3 million yen range.
The base grade is expected to be priced at 3.8 million yen , so you can actually purchase it for just under 3 million yen . However, this is the cheapest grade, and there are some restrictions such as:
- Minimal equipment
- Custom parts sold separately
- Fewer comfort features compared to higher grades
3. Body size and maneuverability: A compact SUV that is easy to use in urban areas
Main specifications
| item | Number |
|---|---|
| full length | 4,575mm |
| Overall width | 1,855mm |
| Overall height | 1,960mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,580mm |
| Minimum turning radius | 5.5m |
| ground clearance | 240mm |
| Passenger capacity | 5 people |
| Vehicle weight | Approximately 2,040 kg (estimated) |
Comparison with other Land Cruiser series
| Model | full length | Overall width | Minimum turning radius |
|---|---|---|---|
| FJ | 4,575mm | 1,855mm | 5.5m |
| 70 | 4,890mm | 1,870mm | 6.3m |
| 250 | 4,925mm | 1,940 to 1,980 mm | 6.0m |
| 300 | 4,965mm | 1,980mm | 5.9m |
Key points for ease of handling
- Minimum turning radius of 5.5m : 0.5m smaller than the Land Cruiser 250’s 6.0m, making it easy to handle on narrow urban roads
- Short wheelbase (2,580 mm) : High maneuverability off-road, advantageous on steep slopes and rocky terrain
- Compact overall length : At 4,575mm, it is shorter than the RAV4 (4,600mm), making it easy to maneuver in parking lots.
4. Powertrain and fuel economy: Practical 2.7L engine
Engine specs
| item | specification |
|---|---|
| Engine model | 2TR-FE |
| kinds | Inline 4-cylinder gasoline |
| Engine displacement | 2.7L |
| Maximum power | 120kW (163ps) / 5,200rpm |
| Maximum torque | 246Nm/3,900rpm |
| transmission | 6-speed AT (6 Super ECT) |
| Drive system | Part-time 4WD |
Reliable and proven engine
The 2.7L engine (2TR-FE type) installed in the new FJ is a proven engine that has been in use for about 20 years . It is also installed in the Land Cruiser 250 and Hiace Wagon, and its durability and reliability are well-known. As development costs are being amortized, it also contributes to keeping vehicle prices down.
What is part-time 4WD?
The part-time 4WD used in the Land Cruiser FJ is a traditional 4WD system that is also used in the 70.
Features
- **Normally runs in rear-wheel drive (2WD)**, switching to 4WD when necessary
- Use 4WD only on slippery surfaces such as snowy or unpaved roads
- 4WD cannot be used on dry paved roads (to prevent tight corner braking)
merit
- High off-road performance : Direct connection between the front and rear drivetrains provides excellent traction on rough roads.
- Simple structure : Fewer breakdowns and easier maintenance than electronically controlled full-time 4WD
- Low cost : No complex control system is required, which reduces vehicle prices.
Disadvantages
- On paved roads, you cannot take advantage of 4WD : On rainy days on highways, you will need to drive in 2WD.
- Requires manual switching : The driver must manually switch between 2WD and 4WD depending on the situation.
fuel efficiency
| Model | engine | Fuel economy (WLTC mode estimate) |
|---|---|---|
| FJ | 2.7L gasoline | Approximately 13.0km/L |
| 250 | 2.7L gasoline | 7.5km/L |
| 250 | 2.8L diesel | 11.0km/L |
| 70 | 2.8L diesel | 10.1km/L |
The Land Cruiser FJ is approximately 200 kg lighter than the 250 , so even with the same 2.7L engine, fuel economy is expected to be significantly improved to around 13km/L.
5. Interior and exterior charm: A fusion of retro and cutting-edge technology
Exterior design: A tribute to the FJ40
The exterior of the new Land Cruiser FJ features a retro-modern design inspired by the famous 1960s cars , the FJ40 Land Cruiser and the FJ Cruiser .
Exterior highlights
- Square LED headlights : Standard specification is square LED, but customization to round headlights is also possible.
- Powerful fenders : The strong, bulging fenders make the most of the 1,855mm overall width to create a powerful impression.
- Square body : efficient packaging with a horizontal roof and vertical tailgate
- Side-opening tailgate : The side-opening tailgate has a hinge on the right side, making it easy to open even in places with limited rear space.
- Split corner bumper : Only the broken part can be replaced, reducing repair costs
- Custom parts available : A wide range of custom options are available, including MOLLE panels, roof racks, and off-road tires.
Interior: Functionality and comfort
cockpit
- Equipped with a 12.3-inch digital meter and a 12.3-inch infotainment system
- Horizontal instrument panel : Makes it easier to recognize the vehicle’s position off-road
- Low cowl design : Provides good forward visibility and makes it easy to look down on the road even on rough roads
Seat arrangement
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ
- 5-seater, 2-row seating
- Front seats: Ample space between the floor and the seat surface allows for proper driving posture
- Rear seats: When four adults of 170 cm height are riding, there is head and knee space equivalent to one fist.
- The legroom in the rear seats is comparable to that of a compact car, but since your feet fit under the front seats, it’s not a problem in practical terms.
luggage compartment
- Designed to make it easy to load tall items : The luggage compartment is high enough and the rear gate is angled upright
- Side-opening tailgate : Can be opened small even in parking lots close to walls
- The luggage compartment is highly practical considering the body size.
6. Seven things to know before you buy
(1) Difficulty getting in and out
- The floor is high due to a minimum ground clearance of 240 mm
- The rear door openings are particularly narrow , making it difficult to get in and out.
- May be a burden for small or elderly people
(2) Poor visibility
- The windows on both sides of the luggage compartment are filled in , making it difficult to see diagonally rearward.
- The rearview monitor is mounted in the center of the spare tire carrier, but it does not cover the entire field of view.
(3) 4WD performance on paved roads is limited
- Because it is a part-time 4WD, 4WD cannot be used on dry paved roads.
- On rainy days on the highway, the car runs in 2WD mode, so it doesn’t have the stability of a full-time 4WD vehicle.
(4) The price is high, starting from 3.8 million yen
- It is difficult to purchase for the first half of 3 million yen, so the actual price is from 3.8 million yen.
- It feels a bit pricey compared to the Corolla Cross and RAV4.
(5) Risk of extended delivery times
- Production of the Land Cruiser series has not kept up with demand, resulting in frequent suspension of orders.
- FJ is also expected to be very popular, so delivery times may take more than a year.
- There are also concerns about rising used car prices due to resale.
(6) Possibility of not adopting an electric parking brake (EPB)
- Some speculate that a foot-operated parking brake may be adopted.
- Without the latest electric parking brake (EPB) or auto brake hold function, convenience is reduced
(7) Limited grade lineup
- Since the FJ is an entry-level model, it is expected that there will be two to three grades.
- You can’t expect a wide range of grades and options like the 250 and 300.
7. Price and performance comparison with competing models
Main competitors
| Car model | Price range | Drive system | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Land Cruiser FJ | 3.8 million yen to 4.5 million yen | Part-time 4WD | Full off-road performance, compact |
| Suzuki Jimny Nomad | Approximately 2 million yen and up | Part-time 4WD | Light car, high off-road capability |
| Honda ZR-V | 3.7 million to 4.5 million yen | FF/4WD | Urban SUV, 1.5L turbo |
| Mazda CX-60 | 3.72 million yen to 5.6 million yen | FR/4WD | Premium SUV, 3.3L inline-6 |
| Toyota RAV4 | 3.24 million yen to 5.66 million yen | FF/4WD | Mid-size SUV |
| Toyota Harrier | 3.7 million to 4.8 million yen | FF/4WD | Urban premium SUV |
FJ’s advantages
- Full-scale ladder frame structure : High durability that is fundamentally different from passenger car-based competitors
- Land Cruiser brand : global reliability and high resale value
- Customizability : A wide range of off-road parts and customization options
FJ’s weaknesses
- Comfort on paved roads : Ride is stiffer than that of a car-based SUV
- Fuel economy : Less fuel efficient than hybrid vehicles
- Price : Less equipped than urban SUVs in the same price range
8. Release Date and Delivery Expectations
Release Schedule
- October 21, 2025 : World premiere
- October 30th to November 9th, 2025 : Japan debut at Japan Mobility Show 2025
- April-May 2026 : Pre-orders begin (estimated)
- July 2026 : Release in Japan (official announcement)
Delivery date forecast
Delivery times vary depending on when you make a reservation
| Reservation period | Estimated Delivery Date |
|---|---|
| Before release (April-June 2026) | Fall 2026-Spring 2027 |
| Immediately after release (July to September 2026) | Summer to Autumn 2027 |
| After release (October 2026 onwards) | After 2028 |
Reasons for the extended delivery time
- Precedent of the Land Cruiser series
- 300: More than four years from order to delivery
- 250: 1-2 years from order to delivery
- 70: Orders stopped immediately after resale
- Production capacity constraints
- As the car is produced at a factory in Thailand, the number of units produced for Japan is limited.
- Balancing the production line with other IMV series (Hilux Champ, etc.)
- Highly popular predictions
- The rarity of a compact, authentic SUV
- The appeal of the Land Cruiser brand
- Affordable pricing (starting from 3.8 million yen)
Tips for early delivery
- Pre-release reservations : Make a reservation when pre-orders begin before the official release
- Selecting the base grade : Higher grades and those with many options tend to have longer delivery times
- Building relationships with dealers : existing Toyota owners and past buyers may be given priority
9. Summary: Is the Land Cruiser FJ worth buying?
Conclusion on price
- Base grade: Around 3.8 million yen
- High-end grade: 4.2 million to 4.5 million yen
- It’s difficult to purchase it for the lower 3 million yen range, but if you pay 3.8 million yen, you can actually purchase it for the upper 3 million yen range.
Recommended for:
✅People looking for serious off-road performance
✅People who admire the Land Cruiser brand but find the 300 and 250 too big
✅People who want both easy maneuverability in urban areas and off-road performance
✅People who want a durable car that can be driven for a long time
✅People who want to enjoy customization
Not suitable for these people
❌ People who prioritize comfort on paved roads → A Harrier or RAV4 is more comfortable
❌ People who prioritize fuel efficiency → Hybrid cars or PHEVs are more economical
❌ People who want their car delivered quickly → Be prepared for delivery times of more than a year
❌ People with a budget of 3 million yen or less → Consider a used Jimny or light SUV
Final evaluation
The new Land Cruiser FJ is priced from 3.8 million yen, making it difficult to purchase for less than 3 million yen, but it has great appeal as a unique SUV that is compact and has serious off-road performance .
In particular, there is no other vehicle that combines easy maneuverability in urban areas (minimum turning radius of 5.5m) with a full-fledged ladder frame structure and part-time 4WD . The reliability and high resale value of the Land Cruiser brand are also major strengths.
As delivery times are expected to be extended, we strongly recommend that those considering purchasing make their reservations as soon as pre-orders begin in April or May 2026 .
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