The pint-sized Toyota LandCruiser FJ: A Chance for Australia?
The highly anticipated 2025 launch of the Toyota LandCruiser FJ, a smaller version of the iconic nameplate, has been a topic of interest for car enthusiasts. This new model pays homage to the original petrol-powered FJ40-generation LandCruiser from the 1960s to the early 1980s. However, despite its potential success, the LandCruiser FJ was initially ruled out for a local launch due to its 2.7-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, which wouldn't meet the newly enacted emissions regulations.
But there's a twist! A Japanese publication, Best Car, has reported that the LandCruiser FJ will receive a turbo-diesel engine, specifically the 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine found in the Toyota HiLux and LandCruiser Prado in Australia. This engine, coupled with mild-hybrid assistance, produces 150kW and 500Nm, a significant improvement over the 120kW and 246Nm outputs of the LandCruiser FJ's 2.7-litre petrol mill.
The Australian market vehicles also feature six- and eight-speed automatic transmissions, while the LandCruiser FJ will only have a six-speed automatic. Interestingly, the LandCruiser FJ's path resembles that of the Prado-based FJ Cruiser, which was only available with a 4.0-litre petrol V6 and a five-speed automatic, leading to lower demand.
Despite the potential for a local launch, Best Car reports that the LandCruiser FJ is unlikely to make production until 2029. By that time, Australia's emissions standards will have tightened significantly, potentially jeopardizing the business case. The New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) imposes fines for exceeding emissions limits, and the LandCruiser FJ's turbo-diesel engine may need an AdBlue system to meet Euro 6d regulations.
The LandCruiser FJ is built on Toyota's IMV platform, shared with the HiLux, Fortuner, and South-East Asian HiLux Champ. Its dimensions are 2580mm between the axles, with a wheelbase 270mm shorter than the 250 Series Prado and 10mm less than the Suzuki Jimny XL. However, its overall length, width, and height make it larger than the Jimny XL.
Despite not being sold in Australia, Toyota offers Australian-designed accessories for the SUV in overseas markets, such as ARB bash plates, round headlights, chamfered bumper corners, a roof basket, and a snorkel.
