Mini Toyota Land Cruiser will have Two Versions - ICE and EV

It is no secret that Toyota is developing a mini Land Cruiser, rumoured to be called the FJ Cruiser or Land Cruiser FJ. While the Japanese and South Asian media reports that the mini Land Cruiser will be an ICE-powered model, the European media claims that the SUV will be an electric model. This suggests that Toyota could introduce two separate SUVs targeting two different markets.

Land Cruiser FJ For Asia

If media reports are to be believed, the new Toyota Land Cruiser FJ or FJ Cruiser will be revealed in early 2026. A possible debut at the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show can’t be ignored. This SUV is reportedly to be based on  Toyota’s IMV 0 platform that underpins the low-cost Hilux Champ. It is essentially the heavily modified version of the IMV platform that underpins the Fortuner and Hilux lifestyle pick-up. 

It is expected to first launch in Thailand. In fact, the leaked patent images suggest that the FJ Cruiser will carry a boxy, utilitarian shape. The SUV has strong front fenders, thick C-pillars, and a vertical rear end with a tailgate mounted spare wheel. 

The FJ Cruiser will come with a full time 4WD system that distributes torque to the front and rear wheels at a ratio of 40:60. It is expected to be powered by a 2.7L, 4-cylinder petrol engine paired to a 6-speed automatic gearbox. In select markets, the SUV could get a 2.8L turbo diesel engine that powers the Fortuner.

Mini Land Cruiser For Europe

According to the French media, the mini Land Cruiser for the European markets will be a pure electric model. It is reportedly to be launched sometime in 2028. The SUV will be the production version of the Compact Cruiser EV concept, which was revealed in 2022. The report claims that the SUV will be manufactured in Europe, specifically at Toyota’s facilities located in Kolin, Czech Republic. 

The new SUV is reportedly to be manufactured on the e-TNGA platform. In terms of size, the mini LC could be around 4.4 meters long. It will come with a new generation of batteries, and could offer a range of 600 kilometres in a single charge. The SUV is also expected to receive a dual-motor AWD set-up. 

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