All signs indicate Toyota is about to introduce a new, smaller off-road SUV. The company hasn’t said much about the model since briefly teasing it two years ago, and speculation continues to run rampant. But we might not have to wait much longer.
According to a report from Japanese outlet Creative 331, Toyota plans to launch the Land Cruiser FJ in Japan during the second quarter of 2026. It’ll go on sale featuring a naturally aspirated 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that also powers the entry-level Hilux. The engine makes 163 horsepower and 181 pound-feet in the truck.
The new off-roader is allegedly similar in size to the Toyota Corolla Cross, but stubbier. According to the publication, the FJ will be 171.3 inches long, which is about 5.0 inches shorter than the Corolla Cross. It sounds like the SUV will be closer in length to the Ford Bronco Sport—172.7 inches—than its Toyota stablemate.
Despite the new details, there’s still quite a bit we don’t know for sure about the FJ. It’s unclear which platform Toyota will use, with the latest report suggesting it’ll ride on the IMV-0 platform, a ladder frame architecture that underpins the Hilux Champ and isn’t suited for American safety standards.
Earlier reports suggested that the new Toyota could ride on the automaker’s TNGA-F architecture, which the company uses for the Land Cruiser, Tacoma, and Tundra; however, nothing has been confirmed.
The FJ is supposed to go on sale in North America, reaching dealers worldwide next year, and we doubt it’ll borrow the Hilux’s platform. It’ll also likely have upgraded powertrain choices in the US market, which will likely include gas and hybrid options.
If Toyota’s 2.7-liter engine can fit, then there’s a chance it might feature the brand’s turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder option in the US. It can make up to 326 hp and would be better suited for our tastes.
Either way, it looks like we won’t have to wait much longer to learn everything about the new FJ Land Cruiser. It may debut as soon as the Japan Mobility Show, which kicks off at the end of October.
Source: Creative 331 via Car Expert
