Toyota Fortuner based Mini Land Cruiser FJ SUV Coming This Year - India-Bound

Toyota had launched the cheaper version of the Hilux lifestyle SUV, called the Hilux Champ in Thailand. It is based on the IMV 0 platform, which is basically the affordable version of the existing IMV platform. Using the same platform, Toyota aims to introduce more affordable vehicles for ASEAN and other growing markets. The company will launch an all-new SUV, internally codenamed "500D", which will use the same body-on-frame platform as the Hilux and Toyota Fortuner. 

Rumoured to be called the new FJ Cruiser or Land Cruiser FJ, the new model will be positioned between the Fortuner and Corolla Cross in terms of size. While Corolla Cross is a front-wheel-drive monocoque platform based SUV, the new Toyota 500D or FJ Cruiser will be a rear-wheel-drive ladder-on-frame chassis. The new SUV is most likely to share styling cues with the Land Cruiser, featuring boxy side profile, squared-off wheel arches, a spare tire mounted on the tailgate and flat roof. 

The new Toyota mini SUV will have better approach and departure angle. The SUV will have design similarities with the Toyota Compact Cruiser EV prototype. If media reports are to be believed, the new SUV will measure around 4,410mm in length, 1,855mm in width, and 1,870mm in height with a wheelbase of around 2,580mm. 

The mini Land Cruiser is likely to share its powertrain options with the Fortuner and Innova Crysta. It could get a 2.7-litre petrol,  and a 2.4-litre or a 2.8-litre turbo diesel engines. In some markets, Toyota could also launch an EV version of the SUV. 

The diesel version is also likely to receive a micro hybrid system. The 2.8L diesel engine will be coupled to a belt-driven electric motor/generator, a small lithium battery and a convertor. This hybrid setup claims to offer 10% higher mileage and better NVH levels. Combined power and torque output stands at 204bhp and 499Nm, respectively. 

It is reported that the Toyota Mini Land Cruiser (500D) will make global debut in Thailand in November 2024. The current Fortuner already hit 60 lakh price mark (on-road) in several cities across India. A new SUV with Fortuner's platform and engine could be a great fit in the Indian market.

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