by New Land Cruiser FJ Model
After many years of anticipation, Toyota has introduced a completely new version of the popular FJ Cruiser, named the Land Cruiser FJ. This model, recently shown as a prototype ahead of the Tokyo Motor Show in Japan, has the same robust design as the full-size Land Cruiser and all the signs of becoming a sales hit. Unfortunately, it will not be available in all markets.
Key Details About the Car
Market Restrictions
Toyota has confirmed that the new Land Cruiser FJ will be produced in Thailand and will not be exported to the United States or Europe. The absence of sales in the USA is not a big surprise, as the country no longer receives the classic Land Cruiser 70 Series models and the modern 300 Series, which are sold in other markets such as Australia, alongside the 250 Series.
Furthermore, imports from Thailand to the USA are subject to a 19 percent customs duty, so even if Toyota wanted to import the model to the USA, it would have to significantly increase the price.
Chief Engineer Masaya Uchiyama, during the presentation of the new FJ, stated: “There are no plans for America or Europe. The starting point for this model is the Global South.” Among the key markets Toyota is targeting are Southeast Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East.
In a separate statement to Carscoops, Toyota reported: “There are currently no plans to supply this car to the North American market.”
Technical Features
The new FJ is based on an updated version of the existing IMV platform and will be sold exclusively with the well-known Toyota 2TR-FE 2.7-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine. This engine produces 161 hp and 181 lb-ft (246 Nm) of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a part-time four-wheel-drive system.
Although the FJ is noticeably smaller than the Land Cruiser 250 and 300 Series models, its weight is about 1900 kg (4188 lbs), which is approximately 300 kg (661 lbs) less than the 250 Series. Some design elements appear to be inspired by the Compact Cruiser EV concept presented back in 2021.
The return of the Land Cruiser FJ could be an important step for Toyota in ensuring the availability of robust off-road vehicles in developing markets where the demand for reliable vehicles remains high. This model could fill the niche between compact crossovers and full-size SUVs, offering a balance between practicality and style. However, market restrictions may cause disappointment among brand fans in Europe and North America, where similar cars could have found their audience.
