Toyota FJ Reborn as Adorable Pint-Sized Land Cruiser
Don't get too excited: Toyota isn't planning on bringing the Land Cruiser FJ to America or Canada (for now).
Toyota on Monday revealed the Land Cruiser FJ, the latest member of the off-roader lineage that has existed since 1951. Taking the styling from the current Land Cruiser—yes, including both "faces"—and applying it to a shorter, narrower, and (presumably) more affordable package, the FJ will go on sale mid-2026 in Asian and Middle East markets.
The FJ rides on the IMV platform, the ladder-frame chassis that underpins the Hilux truck and Fortuner SUV. A wheelbase 10.6 inches (270 millimeters) shorter than our Land Cruiser's (112.2 in / 2,850 mm) should make the FJ a much more maneuverable off-road companion, and Toyota says its wheel articulation matches that of the venerable 70 Series. A 2.7-liter gasoline engine is the only powertrain for now, putting down 161 horsepower and 181 pound-feet through a six-speed automatic to a part-time four-wheel drive system.
At just six feet wide, the FJ features its own distinct look, with chamfered lines defining its boxy shape. Easily the most stand-out feature is the porthole-like rear glass, with the taillights sprouting out from the bodywork. Also noteworthy are the multi-piece, removable front and rear bumpers.
Toyota says this was done to "improve repairability, while also taking customizability into account." A low beltline ensures plenty of glass and good visibility.
2026 Toyota FJ: All the Details
Inside the narrow cabin, there are clear Land Cruiser connections in the chunky dashboard architecture and generous amounts of physical controls.
Alongside the FJ, Toyota is showcasing the Land Hopper prototype, a foldable electric bike of sorts meant to carry people and cargo.
The Land Cruiser FJ will be on display at the Japan Mobility Show, which is open to the public from November 1 to 9. We'll be there and look forward to checking out this adorable bit of forbidden fruit.
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Kyle began his automotive obsession before he even started school, courtesy of a remote control Porsche and various LEGO sets. He later studied advertising and graphic design at Humber College, which led him to writing about cars (both real and digital). He is now a proud member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), where he was the Journalist of the Year runner-up for 2021.
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With a hybrid powertrain and a price under $50000, Canadians would love it.
Going in the right direction toward owner maintainability. What needs to be done: 1) Make the console optional. 2) Offer a removable roof panel(s). 3) Bring back the suicide door arrangement for easier rear seat and cargo access. 4) Offer a standard transmission. 5) Automatic stabilizer disconnects. 6) Locking differentials. All this without increasing the MSRP.