Toyota Unveils $13,000 Truck Platform in Revamped FJ Cruiser, Integrating Superior Technology

Mar 25, 2024 09:24 PM EDT

TOYOTA LAND CRUISER VINTAGE OCEAN — (Photo : PIXABAY/ddzphoto)

Toyota's upcoming FJ Cruiser revival may utilize the same platform as the budget-friendly $13,000 Hilux Champ. The Hilux is a compact truck.Fans remember the legendary Toyota FJ Cruiser and admire the Land Cruiser's powerful off-road capability. A combination of these iconic models is anticipated to be released later this year as the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ, a smaller 2024 model.

Toyota FJ Cruiser Coming

Speculation arose after a mysterious image surfaced during Toyota's recent Land Cruiser presentation last August, hinting at the potential return of the FJ Cruiser. As reported in Autoblog, during the presentation, Simon Humphries, an executive at Toyota, hinted at rendering the Land Cruiser more affordable and globally accessible.

A silhouette displayed three vehicles, with the upper left resembling an evolved iteration of Toyota's Compact Cruiser EV Concept from 2021, teasing a nod to the FJ Cruiser resurrection. The teased image showcased a higher ground clearance, larger tires, and a mounted spare wheel on the rear, hinting at a more substantial build compared to the Compact Cruiser concept.

Within the Land Cruiser SUV range, the Toyota FJ Cruiser is often dubbed as the compact or "baby" variant of the renowned Toyota SUV lineup.

What's Instore

Not long ago, CarScoops unveiled a sneak peek as shared by MotorBiscuit's report. The teaser showcased the Toyota FJ Cruiser alongside the classic 70, current 250, and 300 series models. While the 300 series isn't Stateside, this fresh FJ variant is heading to American soil. Positioned to rival the Ford Bronco Sport, this compact off-road crossover is set to shake up the market. Unlike its Ford counterpart, the new Land Cruiser FJ won't adopt a unibody design.

Rather than transitioning to a different structure, the compact Toyota FJ Cruiser will retain the reliable ladder frame architecture, akin to the Toyota Hilux Champ pickup. Expect upgraded sound, vibration, and handling characteristics in this model.

This SUV is intended to satisfy customers on budget who want an excellent off-road experience. Still it is also designed for outstanding driving performance.

These rumors are originating from Japan. Power is seamlessly delivered to a full-time 4WD system via a 6-speed automatic transmission, ensuring an excellent driving experience. The 2014 Toyota FJ Cruiser was measured by Autoblog to be 181 inches long, 106 inches wide, 72 inches height, and have a wheelbase of 75 inches.

Looking ahead, reports from Best Car project a slightly more compact off-roader for the reboot, measuring 177.2 inches long on a 108-inch wheelbase, 72 inches wide, and 72.9 inches tall. The details surrounding the anticipated launch of the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ are eagerly awaited.

This is expected to show up as early as December 2024. In the spring of 2025, the SUV will make its global debut after first going on sale in Japan. As per CarScoops, reports suggest that the compact Land Cruiser FJ might make its first appearance as soon as December 2024, with initial deliveries scheduled for the Japanese market in the spring of 2025. Subsequently, a worldwide launch, encompassing regions like North America, is on the horizon for this eagerly anticipated model.