Toyota has officially unveiled the all-new Land Cruiser FJ, a bold and compact addition to its legendary Land Cruiser lineup. The global debut took place ahead of the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, giving fans an early look at what could become one of Toyota’s most exciting off-road models in recent years.
A Fresh Take on Adventure
Built around the theme of “Freedom and Joy,” the new Land Cruiser FJ captures the spirit of adventure that has defined the Land Cruiser for over seven decades. Toyota describes it as “compact, capable, and designed for individual expression.”
This new generation blends retro-inspired styling with modern capability, aiming to attract younger, freedom-loving drivers who want an SUV that’s as fun on the trail as it is practical in the city.
According to Toyota, the FJ embodies the brand’s legacy of durability, reliability, and off-road strength, while introducing new design and technology elements for today’s explorers.
South Africa Could Be Among the First Markets
Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has confirmed that the Land Cruiser FJ is under active consideration for release in the local market. The company described South Africa as “a natural home for a vehicle built on the values of freedom, exploration, and reliability.”
If it launches locally, the FJ will join Toyota’s impressive Land Cruiser family — a lineup long respected by farmers, 4×4 enthusiasts, safari operators, and adventurers alike.
For those looking to buy used Toyota 4x4s or similar off-road-ready models, you can browse listings on auto24.co.za, which features some of the most popular Land Cruiser, Hilux, and Prado variants available in South Africa.
Rugged Design Meets Modern Style
The Land Cruiser FJ makes a bold first impression. Its boxy silhouette, short overhangs, and flared wheel arches give it a muscular stance, reminiscent of classic FJ models yet unmistakably modern.
The front end features LED headlights, a minimalist rectangular grille, and a black-out bumper for an aggressive look. Toyota is reportedly offering two front headlamp designs — rectangular and circular — suggesting a potential First Edition version, similar to what was done with the new Toyota Prado.
Built on Toyota’s IMV platform, the new FJ boasts a shorter wheelbase and high ground clearance, ensuring agility on tight trails and stability on rocky terrain. This makes it a promising option for those seeking adventure across South Africa’s diverse landscapes — from the Drakensberg passes to Namibian dunes.
Inside the Cabin: Functional Yet Refined
The FJ’s cabin takes inspiration from the new Prado, offering a balance between rugged utility and modern comfort. The dashboard layout features dual digital displays, circular air vents, and a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel for intuitive control.
One standout feature is the traditional handbrake — a welcome nod to off-road purists who prefer the mechanical feel of a lever over electronic systems. Durable materials, large buttons, and a chunky gear lever reinforce its utilitarian spirit, while touchscreen infotainment and climate control ensure everyday usability.
Advanced Safety and Off-Road Technology
Toyota equips the new Land Cruiser FJ with its Toyota Safety Sense Suite, offering cutting-edge driver-assist technologies such as:
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane-keep assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- Parking sensors
- Hill descent control
- Tyre pressure monitoring
These features not only enhance safety but also improve confidence in challenging off-road environments.
Engine Options and Performance
While full specifications are yet to be confirmed, early reports suggest that the FJ will feature:
- A 2.7-litre petrol engine (120kW / 246Nm)
- A 2.8GD-6 diesel engine (150kW / 500Nm) — likely for select markets, including South Africa
Both options will pair with Toyota’s proven four-wheel-drive system, making the FJ equally capable on gravel, mud, or tarmac.
For South Africans interested in electrified mobility alternatives, EV24.africa offers a range of imported electric vehicles — a sign of Toyota’s broader shift toward sustainable mobility in the future.
Quick Specs: Toyota Land Cruiser FJ Highlights
| Category | Key Features |
| Platform | IMV architecture, shorter wheelbase, high ground clearance |
| Design | Retro styling, LED lights, square stance, blacked-out accents |
| Interior | Dual digital screens, multifunction steering, physical handbrake |
| Safety | Toyota Safety Sense Suite with advanced assist features |
| Off-Road Capability | Flared arches, all-terrain tyres, hill descent control |
| Engines | 2.7L petrol, 2.8GD-6 diesel (expected for SA) |
| Launch | Global rollout from mid-2026 |
| South Africa | Under consideration by Toyota SA Motors |
Why the FJ Could Thrive in South Africa
The Land Cruiser name carries deep heritage in South Africa — synonymous with rugged reliability and go-anywhere capability. From farms to bush trails, the FJ could bridge the gap between the hardcore Prado and smaller SUVs like the Corolla Cross.
For buyers seeking a tough, practical off-roader, the FJ promises a unique mix of heritage styling, modern comfort, and Toyota reliability — making it an ideal choice for South African terrain and lifestyles.
To stay updated on this and other automotive stories, follow imotonews.co.za for the latest car launches, reviews, and off-road insights tailored for South African drivers.
The Takeaway: A New Era for the Land Cruiser Legacy
With the new Land Cruiser FJ, Toyota is reimagining an off-road classic for a new generation. Compact yet powerful, nostalgic yet high-tech — it’s set to become a symbol of modern adventure.
If it lands on South African shores, it will likely join the ranks of the country’s most sought-after 4x4s, appealing to adventurers, families, and anyone who values capability and confidence on any road.
The Land Cruiser FJ marks not just a return to form — but the start of a new chapter in Toyota’s off-road story.
