Toyota has just unveiled its new 2026 Land Cruiser FJ, also known as the Land Cruiser Mini, and this is exactly what off-road enthusiasts have been waiting for. The new model will launch in Japan by mid-2026.
Built on the IMV platform (shared with the Hilux Champ), the Land Cruiser FJ is designed to be a compact and affordable off-roader, positioned as an entry-level 4×4. It is bigger than it looks, measuring 4575 mm in length, 1855 mm in width and 1960 mm in height, and comes with a 2580 mm wheelbase. That makes it longer than the Suzuki Jimny XL but shorter than the Land Cruiser Prado, striking a balance between city-friendly size and serious off-road capability.
The exterior design looks boxy and retro, clearly inspired by the classic FJ Cruiser. It comes with flared fenders, a tailgate-mounted spare wheel, and heritage-style TOYOTA block lettering on the grille. Buyers can choose between round or C-clamp-style headlights, and both the front and rear bumpers are modular, allowing owners to remove sections for better approach and departure angles while off-roading.
Inside, the cabin borrows heavily from the new Land Cruiser 250 and Prado, with a horizontal dashboard layout design, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and a 7-inch digital driver display. It also includes physical buttons and knobs, a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a parking camera, which are rarely found in affordable off-roaders. The use of a manual handbrake instead of an electronic one hints at its robust and old-school nature.
Under the hood, the FJ Mini uses a 2.7-litre naturally aspirated 4-cylinder petrol engine (2TR-FE) that produces 120 kW and 246 Nm of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed Aisin automatic gearbox and a low-range transfer case with a part-time 4WD system. This means the vehicle runs primarily in rear-wheel drive but can engage all four wheels when needed. Toyota has also equipped it with coil-sprung suspension (independent front and live rear axle), a locking rear differential, hill descent control and a second-gear start function for tough terrain.
Off-road performance is said to be benchmarked against the legendary Land Cruiser 70 Series, which is known for its extreme durability and capability. Toyota also claims that the new FJ offers the same wheel articulation as the Mini 70 Series, which is an impressive feat for a small, lightweight SUV.
The 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ will be manufactured in Thailand, which could help keep costs down. While no official price has been announced, estimates suggest that if it ever comes to Australia it could start around AUD 40,000 – 45,000 (₹21.5 lakh – ₹24 lakh Expected Price in Indian Rupees), making it one of the most affordable Toyota off-roaders.
In short, the 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ promises to be a rugged, compact and practical SUV that brings back the spirit of the original FJ Cruiser – only smaller, more efficient and more accessible. If Toyota decides to expand its availability outside of Japan, it could become a serious competitor to the Suzuki Jimny and also attract buyers looking for a more budget-friendly adventure vehicle.
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