Toyota is set to revive the iconic Land Cruiser FJ, signaling a major expansion in its rugged SUV lineup. The Land Cruiser FJ, teased during the Land Cruiser Prado’s debut event, is slated to be a global model, bringing back the legendary FJ moniker that has left an indelible mark on Toyota’s history. Recent trademark filings in Japan suggest that the smaller rugged SUV in development will proudly carry the Land Cruiser FJ nameplate.
Land Cruiser FJ: A Nod to Tradition with Modern Excellence
The Land Cruiser FJ holds a special place in Toyota’s heritage, with the FJ suffix gracing various Land Cruiser generations since the debut of the FJ20 in 1955. The revival of the FJ name follows the brand’s recent showcase of a completely different Land Cruiser EV and the teaser for a smaller rugged SUV. The upcoming Land Cruiser FJ is expected to feature retro-style design cues, paying homage to its legendary predecessors.
Back to the Future: Retro Styling Meets Cutting-Edge Design
The last time the FJ name adorned a Toyota SUV was with the “FJ Cruiser,” a retro-styled marvel that captured enthusiasts’ hearts from 2006 to 2022. The Land Cruiser FJ is poised to continue this legacy, drawing inspiration from the Toyota Compact Cruiser SUV concept revealed last year. The teaser hints at an upright and boxy design reminiscent of the Compact Cruiser concept, with a distinctive C-shaped headlamp signature.
Platform Mystery: Where FJ Finds Its Foundation
While details about the platform for the Land Cruiser FJ remain shrouded in mystery, Toyota’s existing lineup boasts two ladder-frame platforms. The advanced TNGA-F architecture underpins the Land Cruiser 300, Land Cruiser Prado, and the new Tacoma, while the IMV architecture supports the Hilux and Fortuner. The recently showcased IMV 0 ladder-frame platform, debuting with the Hilux Champ, adds an intriguing layer to the Land Cruiser FJ’s potential foundation.
As anticipation builds for the Land Cruiser FJ, Toyota enthusiasts and SUV aficionados can expect more details to unfold in the coming months, promising a blend of tradition, innovation, and off-road prowess.
