The Return of an Off-Road Icon

The legendary FJ nameplate is officially making a comeback with the 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ. Often referred to as the “Baby Land Cruiser,” this compact SUV serves as a highly anticipated spiritual successor to the beloved FJ Cruiser.

Instead of following the modern automotive trend of adding complicated touchscreens for every basic function, Toyota has rebelled by designing an honest, durable, and highly capable off-roader. It is engineered to give beginners and enthusiasts a raw, traditional driving experience.

Rugged Exterior Design and Dimensions

The new Land Cruiser FJ features a “dice-inspired” boxy silhouette that prioritizes both interior space and an aggressive stance. It is built on a shortened version of the tough IMV ladder-frame chassis, sharing its rugged DNA with the famous Hilux and Fortuner.

In terms of size and capability, the vehicle is built to conquer tough trails:

• Generous Clearances: The vehicle sits high with an impressive 245 mm of ground clearance.
• Trail Ready: It boasts a 29-degree approach angle and a 38-degree departure angle for tackling steep hills.
• Classic Tailgate: Toyota has brought back the iconic side-hinged rear door featuring a full-size spare tyre mounted on the back.

Built for Customization

One of the most unique aspects of the Land Cruiser FJ is its modular exterior design. The front and rear corner bumpers are easily removable. This clever feature makes it incredibly cheap and easy to fix trail damage, or to completely swap out the bumpers for heavy-duty aftermarket modifications.

Engine Performance and Specifications

Many fans were wondering what powertrain would motivate this new beast. Toyota opted for maximum, bulletproof reliability by using their proven 2.7-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, known as the 2TR-FE.

• Power Output: The engine produces 120 kW to 122 kW of power and 245 Nm to 246 Nm of torque.
• Transmission: It sends power to the wheels via a tough, steady-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission.
• Off-Road Gear: You get a serious part-time 4WD system, low-range gearing, Hill Descent Control, and a standard lockable rear differential.

Unmatched Reliability

By avoiding a highly complex diesel engine or hybrid system, Toyota ensures that the Land Cruiser FJ will remain a “living tank”. This simple but effective engine is designed to easily survive for decades without frustrating software glitches or mechanical failures.

Interior Space, Tech, and Practicality

If you are cross-shopping between this and a Suzuki Jimny, the Toyota offers significantly more room and a more premium feel. While the Jimny only seats four, the Land Cruiser FJ is a proper five-seater with a spacious 60:40 split rear bench.

• Massive Boot Space: You get a very generous 795 litres of cargo space, which expands to a massive 1,607 litres when the rear seats are folded flat down.
• Smart Dashboard Layout: The dashboard features a horizontal layout designed to offer excellent forward visibility when driving up steep inclines.
• Infotainment: The cabin comes standard with an 8.0-inch touchscreen display, fully supporting both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Physical Controls: Essential controls for the air conditioning and 4×4 modes utilize chunky physical buttons, which are much easier to use when bouncing around on bumpy dirt roads.

Pricing and Trim Levels in South Africa

In the South African market, the vehicle is available in two well-equipped trim levels: the base GX and the premium VX. The VX model adds extra luxurious touches like synthetic leather seats, blind spot monitoring, and a Panoramic View Monitor camera system.

• Land Cruiser FJ 2.7 4×4 GX AT: Priced at R714,000.
• Land Cruiser FJ 2.7 4×4 VX AT: Priced at R761,400.

Every purchase provides great peace of mind, including a three-year/100,000 km warranty and a nine-service/90,000 km service plan right out of the box.