New baby Cruiser: the cat among the pigeons

Toyota has reignited the spirit of adventure with the global reveal of the new Land Cruiser FJ, unveiled ahead of its public debut at the Japan Mobility Show 2025.

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With the FJ joining the 300, Prado and 70 Series, Toyota is expanding the Land Cruiser line-up to meet the diverse lifestyles of customers worldwide.

What is it?

Set for launch around mid-2026, the FJ brings a fresh and youthful dimension to the legendary Land Cruiser family. Developed under the concept of “Freedom and Joy”, the Land Cruiser FJ offers a new take on the brand’s 70-year heritage. Compact, capable and designed for individual expression, the FJ stays true to the Land Cruiser ethos while appealing to a new generation, says Toyota.

Exterior:

The FJ’s bold, boxy silhouette pays homage to classic Land Cruisers while incorporating modern functionality. Short overhangs and flared fenders hint at its off-road intent.

Built on Toyota’s IMV platform, the FJ combines authentic off-road capability with everyday agility. A shorter wheelbase improves manoeuvrability, while high ground clearance and robust chassis engineering deliver the expected performance.

Interior:

Inside, a horizontal instrument panel, excellent forward visibility and intuitive controls ensure confidence behind the wheel – on or off the beaten track.

Safety is bolstered by the latest Toyota Safety Sense suite, featuring advanced driver assistance systems such as the Pre-Collision Safety System.

Size:

The new Cruiser is, in terms of size, in the same league as the Suzuki Jimny 5-door. It larger in all aspects compared to the Jimny, 590mm longer, 240mm taller and 210mm wider. The Cruiser’s wheelbase is slightly shorter than the Suzuki Jimny’s.

Engine:

Although not confirmed for our market and speculation about other power trains, the Cruiser will kick-off with Toyota’s well-known 2.7-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine with 122kW and 245Nm torque.

When will we see it?

Toyota South Africa Motors has confirmed that the model is being considered for introduction into the South African market – a fitting home for a vehicle built on the values of freedom, exploration and reliability, it says.

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