Who would’ve thought that the Toyota Land Cruiser family can get any bigger? Aside from the three main models, we’re expecting an EV version soon, along with a ‘mini’ model down the line.
The latter is expected to be called the Land Cruiser FJ, a callback to the FJ Cruiser sold from 2006 to 2022. It was previewed during the launch of the all-new Land Cruiser Prado way back in August 2023. At the time, Toyota only showed a shadowy figure of the small SUV.
OTHER STORIES YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED:
Bureau of Customs seizes P1.4-B worth of luxury cars, including a Ferrari SF90 Stradale
Dongfeng and Changan are reportedly considering an ‘alliance’
Since then, Toyota hasn’t dropped other hints about the Land Cruiser FJ. Initial rumors suggested that it would be revealed by late 2024 but never materialized. But now, reports from Japan are saying that we can expect its world premiere by mid-2025.
That’s according to Japanese automotive magazine, Best Car. Per the publication, it could be shown as early as ‘Spring 2025.’ Based on Japan’s seasonal calendar, the premiere dates could slot between March to May. Best Car added that the Land Cruiser FJ will benefit from some of the hardware (and software) found in the redesigned Prado.
It has long been assumed that the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ will ride on the IMV-0 platform. It’s a heavily reworked version of the current chassis that’s now seeing service in the revived Tamaraw. This chassis will also be used for the next-generation Hilux and Fortuner. A mix of petrol and turbo diesel engine options are expected.
Aside from the mid-2025 possible launch date, there is another venue where Toyota could reveal the Land Cruiser FJ. The Japan Mobility Show is set to open its doors by October this year, and if the company wants a grand reveal for its compact 4x4, this might be the place to do it.
But for now, we’ll be on the lookout for more details as the impending launch date gets closer.
