The ‘FJ’ badge has returned to a Toyota, with the Japanese automaker whipping the wraps off the new Land Cruiser FJ.
First showcased in concept form at the 2003 North American International Motor Show, following the positive response towards the initial design study, Toyota officially unveiled the series-production version of the original FJ Cruiser at the Chicago Auto Show in 2005. The retro-styled SUV entered production in 2006 and would soldier on as one of the Japanese automaker’s most prolific 4x4s until it was officially discontinued following a lifespan of 16 years.
In 2021, a year before the FJ Cruiser said its final goodbyes, Toyota showcased the Compact Cruiser EV Concept, a car many believed signified a spiritual successor to the original FJ Cruiser was in the workings. Well, now, following much speculation — not to mention anticipation — the Aichi-based brand has finally unveiled the new-generation FJ. Meet the Land Cruiser FJ…
The latest ‘FJ’-badged Land Cruiser retains a naturally aspirated petrol engine (indeed, no forced induction or diesel here). However, compared to the previous FJ, which employed the firm’s venerable 4.0-litre V6, which produced 200 kW and 380 N.m of torque in this application, the latest Toyota to don the ‘FJ’ moniker was revealed with the carmaker’s 2.7-litre four-pot. Producing 120 kW and 246 N.m, the 2TR-FE unit, which is also available with select current-generation Hilux models, powering the new-generation FJ is coupled with the brand’s 6 Super ECT (electronically controlled transmission). The latter, six-speed automatic gearbox delivers power to the road via a part-time four-wheel-drive system.
Sharing its underpinnings with the Hilux, the Land Cruiser FJ is based on Toyota’s IMV platform. The newest compact 4×4 offering in Toyota’s line-up measures 4 575 mm in length, 1 855 mm in width, 1 960 in height, and 2 580 mm between the fore and aft axles. For comparison, its ‘FJ’-badged predecessor measures 4 670 mm long, front to rear, with a wheelbase spanning 2 690 mm, 1 905 mm wide, and 1 830 mm in height.
So, will the Land Cruiser FJ make its way to Mzansi? Well, it’s not yet been confirmed for our market. However, Toyota South Africa Motors has said this model is “under consideration” for our market.