Toyota is preparing for a busy 2025 and beyond, with major developments both in South Africa and on the global stage.
Locally, the brand and its luxury arm, Lexus, are gearing up to introduce three battery-electric vehicles next year. One of these models, the Toyota bZ4X (photo), is already on display at naamsa’s Autoweek, offering a glimpse of what customers can expect when it officially arrives.
Internationally, attention is also turning to the much-rumoured compact Land Cruiser, often referred to as the “baby Land Cruiser” or “mini-FJ Cruiser”. While Toyota has not yet revealed official images, Japanese automotive site Creative Trend has reported that the new off-roader is likely to debut at the Japan Mobility Show in 2025. Sales in Japan are expected to start around spring 2026.
The compact SUV is based on the Compact Cruiser EV concept first shown in 2021. Leaked patent images reveal a boxy, rugged design with a tailgate-mounted spare wheel, echoing the spirit of the classic FJ Cruiser.
The vehicle is believed to use Toyota’s IMV-0 platform, shared with the HiLux and Fortuner ensuring durability. According to Creative Trend, the initial model will feature a 2.7-litre petrol engine, the same as found in the Land Cruiser 250 in other markets.
As for the bZ4X, Toyota is preparing upgrades that include more efficient eAxle technology, refined suspension and improved quietness inside the cabin. Customers will be able to choose between two battery sizes:
Version |
Battery (kWh) |
Range (km) |
0 - 100 km/h |
FWD |
57.7 |
445 |
8.6 sec |
AWD |
73.1 |
573 |
7.4 sec |
AWD High |
73.1 |
520 |
5.1 sec |
The larger 73.1kWh battery offers a longer range of about 70km compared to the current model and includes pre-conditioning for faster charging in cold conditions. Toyota says charging can be completed in roughly 30 minutes under optimal conditions. The new version is expected to launch in Europe in the second half of 2025.
With a mix of electric innovation and the revival of a rugged off-road icon, Toyota is proving that it intends to balance tradition with technology. South African customers can look forward to both sides of this story as the brand brings its next-generation vehicles to market.
The South African motor industry has lost one of its longstanding business figures following the passing of Jebb McIntosh, the group chief executive of Combined Motor Holdings (CMH), on Monday, 2 November 2026.
“South Africa’s automotive industry has been AGOA’s largest user, but for the sector the preference has already been largely overridden by the 25% Section 232 tariffs applied on vehicles and components. Losing AGOA adds a further cost to an industry that has already absorbed a significant shock.”
Foton has started building vehicles in South Africa, and the first overseas vehicle manufacturing base of BAIC Group is now in Gqeberha.
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