Toyota is preparing to expand its legendary Land Cruiser family with a new model known as the Land Cruiser FJ, popularly referred to as the Mini Fortuner. This upcoming SUV will serve as a more compact, affordable, and rugged alternative to the Fortuner, aimed at customers who want Land Cruiser toughness in a smaller package.
The FJ will become an entry-level model in Toyota’s off-road lineup while carrying forward the brand’s strong heritage of durability and go-anywhere ability.
Platform and Engineering
The Land Cruiser FJ is based on Toyota’s IMV-0 ladder-frame platform, the same architecture used in models such as the Hilux Champ pickup, Fortuner, and Innova Crysta. This robust understructure allows the SUV to deliver strong off-road performance while keeping costs under control for global markets.
Reports suggest that worldwide production will begin by late 2025 or early 2026, with India likely to receive the model a little later around 2027, depending on demand and pricing strategy.
Summary Table
Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
Official Website |
Toyota India – no official FJ page yet |
Global Production |
Expected to begin by late 2025 or early 2026 |
Possible India Launch |
Likely in 2027 (under evaluation) |
Platform |
IMV-0 ladder-frame (shared with Hilux Champ, Fortuner, Innova Crysta) |
Dimensions (est.) |
Length ~4,500 mm, Width ~1,830 mm, Height ~1,850 mm, Wheelbase ~2,750 mm |
Engine Options |
2.0L Petrol, 2.7L Petrol, 2.8L Diesel (mild-hybrid in some markets) |
Drivetrain |
4WD with ladder-frame toughness |
Price Range (India) |
Estimated ₹25 – ₹40 lakh |
Competitors |
Mahindra Scorpio-N, Jeep Meridian, MG Gloster (entry variants) |
Exterior Design and Dimensions
Patent sketches and leaks have already offered a glimpse of the Land Cruiser FJ’s design. The SUV follows a retro-inspired, boxy profile that echoes classic Toyota off-roaders. Key styling elements include:
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Upright front fascia with squared headlamps and C-shaped DRLs
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Strong wheel arches with thick cladding
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Flat, slab-like roofline with tall stance
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Blocky tail lamps and tailgate-mounted spare wheel
These design choices emphasize toughness and practicality, making the SUV stand out in the modern SUV market.
In terms of size, the FJ is expected to measure around 4,500 mm in length, with a 2,750 mm wheelbase, making it shorter and more compact than the Fortuner but still substantial enough for family and adventure duties. Width and height are estimated at 1,830 mm and 1,850 mm, respectively.
Powertrain Options
Toyota is reportedly preparing a wide range of engine choices to suit different markets. The following engines are expected:
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2.0-litre petrol for entry variants
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2.7-litre petrol for mid-range buyers
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2.8-litre diesel, likely with a 48V mild-hybrid system (already seen on the Fortuner and Hilux overseas)
A 4WD system is expected to be standard or available on higher trims, reinforcing the SUV’s off-road focus. While Toyota has not confirmed electrification, the platform may later accommodate a full EV version.
Off-Road Features
As a true Land Cruiser, the FJ is being developed with serious off-road capability. Anticipated features include:
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Ladder-frame construction for durability
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Permanent or selectable 4WD system
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Torsen limited-slip differential
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Selectable terrain modes for sand, rock, and snow
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High ground clearance and approach/departure angles
These attributes position the Land Cruiser FJ as a rival to rugged SUVs such as the Mahindra Scorpio-N, Jeep Meridian, and even certain trims of the MG Gloster.
Market Position and Pricing
Globally, the Land Cruiser FJ will sit below the Fortuner in Toyota’s SUV hierarchy. For India, it is expected to arrive as a more affordable alternative to the Fortuner, with a likely price range between ₹25 lakh and ₹40 lakh (ex-showroom).
If launched, it will attract buyers who want a tough Toyota SUV without stretching their budget to the Fortuner’s premium bracket.
Global vs India Strategy
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Global Launch: Toyota aims to start sales in select regions by 2026.
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India Launch: While not officially confirmed, Toyota’s success with SUVs like the Fortuner and Land Cruiser 300 makes India a strong candidate. A 2027 introduction seems realistic.
FAQs
Q1. What is the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ?
A. It is a compact rugged SUV, also known as the Mini Fortuner, designed to deliver Land Cruiser toughness at a lower price point.
Q2. When will the Land Cruiser FJ launch in India?
A. Globally expected in late 2025/early 2026, with India likely to receive it by 2027.
Q3. What platform is it built on?
A. The IMV-0 ladder-frame platform, shared with the Hilux Champ, Fortuner, and Innova.
Q4. What are the expected engine options?
A. 2.0L petrol, 2.7L petrol, and 2.8L diesel with mild-hybrid options depending on the market.
Q5. Will it come with 4WD?
A. Yes, Toyota is expected to equip the FJ with a 4WD system, possibly standard in higher trims.
Q6. What could be the price in India?
A. It may cost between ₹25 lakh and ₹40 lakh (ex-showroom).
Q7. Is it confirmed for India?
A. Toyota has not yet officially confirmed, but the strong SUV demand here makes a launch very likely.
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