Toyota Land Cruiser FJ: Ending an Era of Automotive Iconic Off-Roader, Production Ceases in Thailand with a Final Send-Off in October 2025.

Immediately after, the vehicle will be showcased at the Motor Expo in Thailand in November before entering production in early 2026.

Interestingly, the name “Land Cruiser FJ” was trademarked by Toyota in Thailand on February 17, 2025, according to data from the Department of Intellectual Property, Ministry of Commerce. This name is likely to be used globally, including in the Southeast Asian market, where Thailand is one of Toyota’s strategic production hubs.

An off-road-capable SUV with urban-friendly dimensions based on the Hilux CHAMP platform.

The Land Cruiser FJ is developed on the IMV0 platform with a separate body-on-frame construction, similar to the Hilux CHAMP. However, the new model features a shorter body and engine compartment to optimize maneuverability in urban environments. Notably, its wheelbase is expected to be around 2,500-2,600 mm, shorter than the 2,750 mm found in pickup trucks.

This change positions the Land Cruiser FJ in the small SUV segment while retaining Toyota’s off-road spirit, a combination not commonly found in urban SUVs.

In terms of performance, this SUV will be powered by a 2.7L 2TR-FE inline-four gasoline engine, producing 166 horsepower and 245 Nm of torque. It will be paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, and there may be an option for a four-wheel-drive system similar to the first-generation Toyota Fortuner.

As of now, there is no information on whether the Land Cruiser FJ will offer a diesel engine option like the Hilux CHAMP.

Leaked images from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and Autolifethailand reveal that the Land Cruiser FJ’s design is almost finalized. It features square LED headlights, a simple and robust front end, and similarities to the Land Cruiser 250.

A notable difference is the square-shaped LED daytime running lights instead of the initial round design from Best Car magazine (Japan). The overall front end exudes a muscular style, reminiscent of the Compact Cruiser EV but toned down to appeal to both urban and adventure-seeking customers.

Compact Cruiser EV: A similar concept to the Land Cruiser FJ but with an electric powertrain.

Toyota has also paid attention to the Land Cruiser FJ’s interior, redesigning the dashboard while sharing practical components like the gear lever, handbrake, and cup holders with the Hilux CHAMP to keep production costs in check.

Interior rendering showcasing similarities with the Hilux CHAMP, which is also produced in Thailand.

Assembly of the Land Cruiser FJ will take place at the Ban Pho plant in Chachoengsao Province, Thailand, where Toyota has made significant investments to manufacture strategic models for the ASEAN market.

The introduction of the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ is expected to create a new niche in the small SUV segment with a separate body construction. With a competitive price point, it could be a formidable rival to off-road-capable small SUVs like the Suzuki Jimny or even a scaled-down version of the Ford Bronco in the future.

PV (Tuoitrethudo)