Thai media reports indicate the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ is scheduled for launch in the "land of smiles" (Thailand) by the end of march, though a specific date was not disclosed. According to AutoLifeThailand, this off-road SUV will be assembled in Thailand and subsequently exported to several countries in the region, including Vietnam.
In Thailand, the Land Cruiser FJ is positioned between the Corolla Cross and the Fortuner. This new off-road SUV is equipped with a 2.7-liter gasoline engine producing 163 hp and 246 Nm of peak torque. It is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and features full-time 4-wheel drive. Notably, the engine in the Land Cruiser FJ is the same 2.7 gasoline unit found in the Toyota Fortuner currently sold in Vietnam.
The Land Cruiser FJ is built on the IMVO body-on-frame platform, a robust foundation similar to that of the Toyota Hilux. The vehicle offers a 5-seat configuration. Its body and engine bay are designed to be shorter than the Fortuner, a deliberate choice to enhance convenience for urban driving.
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Toyota Land Cruiser FJ with C-shaped lights. *Photo: Toyota*
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The Land Cruiser FJ uses a body-on-frame chassis similar to the Toyota Hilux.
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The Land Cruiser FJ features an off-road style.
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Its wheelbase belongs to the A+ high-ground clearance vehicle segment.
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The FJ has a boxy exterior.
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Front and rear bumpers are removable.
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The vehicle is equipped with a 2.7-liter gasoline engine, similar to the Fortuner sold in Vietnam.
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The interior features a distinctive design.
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The vehicle has a 5-seat configuration.
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Land Cruiser FJ with classic round headlights.
The vehicle is developed on the SWB Super platform, a short-wheelbase design measuring 2,580 mm. The FJ has a length of 4,575 mm, a width of 1,855 mm, and a height of 1,960 mm. These dimensions are comparable to C-segment high-ground clearance vehicles like the Honda CR-V or Mazda CX-5, but with superior height. The FJ's wheelbase is only slightly larger than A+ segment high-ground clearance vehicles such as the Hyundai Venue and Toyota Raize.
Like its larger sibling, the Land Cruiser Prado, the Land Cruiser FJ features two distinct design styles. One style draws inspiration from retro aesthetics with classic round headlights, while the other boasts a more modern rectangular design with C-shaped lights. Both versions are equipped with a minimalist grille, prominently featuring the Toyota lettering. Below the grille, the plastic bumper has a slightly different design depending on the style.
Along its sides, the Land Cruiser FJ features angular fender flares, combined with thick side cladding. It has a substantial C-pillar, contributing to its robust appearance. The spare tire mounted on the tailgate nearly obscures the rear window, a common off-road design cue. The taillights are C-shaped, complementing a robust rear bumper. Toyota states that the vehicle's front and rear bumpers are removable. This design allows owners to easily replace damaged parts, potentially saving on repair costs.
A familiar design continues in the interior, drawing significant inspiration from the Land Cruiser. It features a round steering wheel, a digital instrument cluster, a wide infotainment screen, and separate climate control buttons. A prominent gear lever and several off-road focused shift knobs are present, emphasizing its rugged capabilities. The second-row seats can slide forward and backward, offering flexibility for passengers and cargo. Toyota confirms that the vehicle will be equipped with the toyota safety sense suite of driver assistance systems, enhancing safety.
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ is produced at the company's plant located in Chachoengsao province, Thailand. The Japanese automaker also confirmed that the Land Cruiser FJ will eventually be sold in Vietnam, but did not disclose a specific timeline for its arrival.
Minh Vu
