Rendering
Toyota is reportedly working on a baby Land Cruiser which could adopt the FJ moniker upon its global debut in December 2024 in Japan. It will be underpinned by a body-on-frame chassis and was first teased midway through last year. It will be positioned below the latest Land Cruiser 250 (Prado), whose deliveries will commence soon abroad, and the larger LC 300.
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ name has been trademarked and it could be used for this Ford Bronco Sport rival. To keep the production costs in check, the Japanese auto major is expected to utilise the same platform found in the Hilux Champ commercial pickup. The affordable off-road SUV was initially speculated to use ICE and hybrid powertrains before transitioning into an EV.
However, the latest reports note that it will feature a pure ICE option only. The 2.7L four-cylinder 2TR-FE NA petrol engine is a likely contender as it already powers the Hilux Champ and LC 250. It produces 163 PS and 246 Nm and is linked with a six-speed torque converter automatic transmission, sending power to all four wheels.
The gasoline mill could be restricted to some markets while developed markets could gain more powerful engines seen in the Corolla Cross or RAV4. The 2.0L inline four-cylinder engine developing 169 hp and the 2.5L four-cylinder unit kicking out 203 hp and perhaps a PHEV variant could be considered but no official confirmation has been made yet.
The overall design of the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ could take plenty of inspiration from the Compact Cruiser EV concept as the tall pillars and upright proportions could be maintained. It could offer a long wheelbase enabling a spacious cabin and boot while high ground clearance should further enhance its overall practicality.
It will be slightly smaller than the RAV4. The compact off-road SUV could also be considered for India as the brand appears to have shelved plans for the India-spec seven-seater Corolla Cross. The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ could help garner good sales volumes for the company in the entry-level global compact off-roader space.
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