Toyota Land Cruiser FJ Launch Pushed Back to Early 2026

It is no secret that Toyota is developing a new D-segment SUV, which will slot below the Fortuner in brand's line-up. Originally planned to debut in 2025, the SUV is rumoured to be called the Land Cruiser FJ and the FJ Cruiser. According to the Japanese sources, the global debut of the new FJ Cruiser SUV has been pushed to early 2026. 

Land Cruiser FJ Launch Delayed - Reasons

It is reported that the ongoing production slowdowns and order suspensions for the larger Land Cruiser 250 are two big reasons behind the delay. Moreover, the brand is facing certification issues related to the launch of new model. The Trump administration's latest move of increasing tariff could further delay the production plans for the FJ Cruiser and other Toyota vehicles. 

New FJ Cruiser - What to Expect?

Likely to be positioned as a mini Fortuner, the new Toyota SUV made its first appearance in 2023 in the teaser form. It will be the smallest member of the Land Cruiser family. If reports are to be believed, the new FJ Cruiser design will be inspired by the 2021 Toyota Compact Cruiser EV concept.

In terms of size, the new Land Cruiser FJ will sit between the Corolla Cross and the RAV4. It is expected to measure around 4500mm long, 1830mm wide and 1850mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2750mm. The big news is that the new Land Cruiser FJ will be based on Toyota's IMV O ladder frame chassis that underpins the Toyota Hilux Champ. As a reminder, the Land Cruiser 300 and 250 Series are based on the TNGA-F platform. 

Toyota will work on improving the Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) levels to make it more refined than the Hilux Champ. A 4WD system with Torsen Limited-Slip differential is likely to be offered as standard. The new FJ Cruiser is likely to be powered by a 2.7L 4-cylinder 2TR-FE petrol engine, which also powers the Thai-spec Hilux Champ. This engine produces 161bhp and 246Nm of torque, and is paired to a 6-speed automatic gearbox. In select markets, the SUV could get the 2.0L turbo diesel engine that powers the Toyota Fortuner. 

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