Launch Timeline Locked for Festive Season 2028 in India
Toyota just unveiled the Land Cruiser FJ globally in Japan last week, and it’s already stealing the spotlight at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show. According to reliable sources from Autocar India, this rugged beast is heading to Indian shores with a planned rollout during the festive period of 2028 that’s a solid three-year wait for eager buyers here. While Japanese customers will start receiving their units by the middle of 2026, folks in India need to exercise a bit more patience before driving one home.
What Does ‘FJ’ Really Mean? Freedom and Joy on Wheels
The ‘FJ’ badge symbolizes Freedom and Joy, perfectly capturing the spirit of this adventure-ready SUV. Built on the tough IMV platform shared with models like the Fortuner and Hilux, it delivers a compact yet commanding presence. Stretching just over 4.5 meters long, the Land Cruiser FJ adopts a sharp, boxy profile and upright posture reminiscent of the bigger Land Cruiser Prado.
For the Indian market, expect powerful strong hybrid and plug-in hybrid setups under the hood, with absolutely no diesel variant in the lineup. This eco-focused approach aligns with growing demands for greener mobility without compromising on performance.
Compact Dimensions Packed with Off-Road Prowess
This five-seater SUV comes in a practical two-row layout, ideal for families or groups of adults. Key measurements include a width of 1,855 millimeters, height of 1,960 millimeters, and a wheelbase of 2,580 millimeters. Despite its smaller footprint, Toyota engineers have ensured top-tier off-road capabilities.
Boasting 215 millimeters of ground clearance and a tight turning radius of 5.5 meters, it handles rough terrains with ease. Underbody braces add extra durability, making it a true go-anywhere machine.
Standout Exterior Features That Turn Heads
Design-wise, the Land Cruiser FJ screams retro-modern appeal. Highlights include detachable robust bumpers, protective side moldings, distinctive C-shaped lighting elements, and a classic spare wheel mounted on the tailgate. Buyers can opt for circular headlights drawn from iconic older Land Cruiser generations, adding a nostalgic touch.
Safety remains a priority with the inclusion of Toyota Safety Sense. This suite brings cutting-edge aids like the Pre-Collision System to prevent accidents and enhance driver confidence.
Interior: Tough, Functional, and User-Friendly
Step inside, and you’ll notice strong similarities to the Land Cruiser Prado. Round air-conditioning vents, oversized grab handles, and plenty of physical knobs and buttons dominate the dashboard for intuitive control. A large 12.5-inch touchscreen sits proudly in the center console for infotainment needs.
The digital driver display keeps things straightforward, while the upholstery, seating surfaces, and dash materials prioritize durability over luxuryโperfect for real-world adventures where scratches and spills are part of the fun.
Powertrain Details: Petrol Base with All-Wheel Grip
At its core, the entry-level Land Cruiser FJ houses a 2.7-liter four-cylinder petrol engine producing 161 horsepower and 246 Newton-meters of torque. Power flows through a smooth six-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels via a part-time 4WD system, ensuring grip in challenging conditions.
As the most accessible model in the Land Cruiser family, it promises reliable performance for daily commutes and weekend escapes alike.
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Market Rivals and Expected Pricing in India
Once launched, the Land Cruiser FJ will directly compete with tough contenders like the Mahindra Thar Roxx, Force Gurkha, and Maruti Suzuki Jimny. Toyota plans to slot it between the Urban Cruiser Hyryder and Fortuner in their Indian portfolio, with starting prices likely around 20 lakh rupees ex-showroom.
This positioning makes it an attractive option for buyers seeking premium off-road credentials without breaking the bank. With its hybrid tech and legendary Toyota reliability, the Land Cruiser FJ could shake up the lifestyle SUV segment and give the Scorpio N a serious run for its money. Keep an eye on this oneโit’s poised to redefine fun and freedom on Indian trails!
