Toyota Motor Company is preparing to make a significant change to its iconic Land Cruiser series! According to media reports, Toyota will soon launch a new compact off-roader SUV, dubbed the Land Cruiser FJ. It is also known as the ‘Mini Fortuner’ in the Indian market.

According to Japanese media reports, this impressive SUV will be unveiled to the world on October 21st, ahead of the Japan Mobility Show 2025 (JMS). This new SUV is designed specifically for the developing markets of India, Thailand, and other Asian countries. Let’s learn everything about this powerful off-roader’s design, features, and expected price in India.

Land Cruiser FJ

The FJ name reflects Toyota’s heritage. The name pays tribute to the historic FJ40 model, launched in 1951, which was Toyota’s first 4×4 vehicle. This new model has been developed internally under Project 500D. Production of this SUV is expected to take place at the Ban Pho plant in Thailand, which will become its international export hub.

In India, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) is expected to assemble it at its new plant in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra. It will be positioned below the Fortuner in the market, but will have significantly stronger capabilities.

Design and Features

The Land Cruiser FJ will be a boxy, utilitarian SUV, similar to the previous FJ Cruiser. Patent images reveal that it will feature C-shaped LED DRLs, square wheel arches, a flat roofline, and prominent cladding. The front end could feature round or square headlights inspired by the LC250. It will be larger than the Corolla Cross but smaller than the RAV4.

This SUV will be a 5-door SUV, and a 3-row variant is also possible, making it ideal for family use. Body panels will be raised to enhance off-road capability. The cabin will have a similar design to the Hilux, but will feature improved NVH levels, a modern console, and the latest infotainment system. Expected features include a touchscreen, wireless charging, Level 2 ADAS, and multiple airbags.

Engine and Performance

Toyota is developing this mini Fortuner on the affordable IMV-0 platform. This platform is a ladder-frame version of the Hilux Champ, Fortuner, and Innova Crysta, making it robust and economical. For developing markets, it is likely to be powered by a 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine (sourced from the Fortuner), producing around 200 bhp and 500 Nm of torque. This engine, combined with a mild-hybrid system, will provide improved fuel economy.

The petrol variant will feature a 2.7-liter NA engine (163 hp, 245 Nm) paired with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. The 4×4 system will include a Torsen LSD and multiple drive modes, making it capable of handling any terrain. An electric variant, similar to the Compact Cruiser EV concept, could also arrive in the future.

Launch and Price

The Land Cruiser FJ could truly be a game-changer for the Indian market. While the Fortuner’s price starts at ₹35 lakh and goes up to ₹50 lakh, the Mini FJ could be launched between ₹25 lakh and ₹35 lakh. With Toyota’s hybrid technology, it will easily meet BS6 standards. There have been rumors of a delayed launch—first to 2024, then to mid-2025—but now it’s almost certain to debut in October 2025. After the JMS is introduced in 2025, sales are expected to begin in 2026.