A New 2026 Toyota Mini Land Cruiser FJ – Built for The Wild & The City?!
The 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ is one of the most anticipated vehicles from Toyota, but its debut has officially been delayed. Originally expected in late 2024, the new compact Land Cruiser will now arrive in the first half of 2026. In Japan, pricing is expected between 4 and 4.5 million yen, which is roughly 26,600 to 30,000 dollars. For the North American market, estimates suggest a starting price around 35,000 dollars, with higher trims reaching above 45,000 dollars. This positions it well below the larger Land Cruiser models, making it the most affordable way to join the Land Cruiser family.
Toyota’s decision to push back the launch comes from several challenges, including production slowdowns, order suspensions for the larger Land Cruiser 250, and certification issues. Global trade tensions have also added uncertainty, forcing Toyota to adjust its release schedule. Even with the delay, excitement continues to build, because the Land Cruiser FJ promises to deliver classic ruggedness in a smaller and more accessible package.
The Land Cruiser name has always been associated with legendary off-road capability, and Toyota wants to maintain that reputation with its new compact model. The first official teaser appeared in 2023, showing the smallest member of the Land Cruiser family alongside the 70 Series, the modern 250 Series, and the flagship 300 Series. A trademark filing soon after sparked speculation that Toyota may revive the FJ nameplate.
In terms of design, the Land Cruiser FJ takes inspiration from the 2021 Compact Cruiser EV concept. It is boxy, upright, and tough-looking, with LED accents, a flat tailgate, and a rear-mounted spare wheel. Compared to Toyota’s popular crossovers, the Land Cruiser FJ is expected to be slightly larger than the Corolla Cross but smaller than the RAV4. Early estimates suggest a length of about 177 inches, a width of 72 inches, and a height of almost 73 inches, with a wheelbase just over 108 inches. That size makes it bigger than a Ford Bronco Sport but smaller than the current North American Land Cruiser.
Unlike most small sport utility vehicles today that use a unibody structure, Toyota is keeping tradition by building the FJ on a ladder frame. Instead of the expensive TNGA-F platform used by the larger Land Cruisers, this compact model will ride on the IMV 0 platform, which is also used in the Hilux Champ pickup. This decision helps Toyota offer a tough off-roader while keeping prices within reach. A four-wheel-drive system with a Torsen limited-slip differential is expected to be standard, giving it the ability to handle challenging terrain with confidence.
When it comes to engines, Toyota has not made an official announcement. One strong candidate is the 2.7-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine producing around 161 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque, already available in the Hilux Champ and other Toyota models. Some markets may also see hybrid versions, especially in regions like North America and Europe where demand for fuel efficiency is strong. Toyota also has options from the Corolla Cross, RAV4, and Prius if it chooses to expand the lineup with more powerful or hybrid powertrains.
Although delayed, the 2026 Land Cruiser FJ will be worth the wait. With rugged styling, ladder frame durability, and more accessible pricing, Toyota is preparing to bring a compact yet authentic Land Cruiser to customers around the world.
Disclaimer:
The information in this video is based on topics that are being explored in various media. We also present illustrations that we generated from AI technology. The purpose of this video is to share the information we know. We sincerely hope you find our information useful.
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