Toyota Land Cruiser FJ launched in Japan; sole VX variant priced from RM112k

Toyota has officially launched the Land Cruiser FJ in Japan, positioning it as the entry point into the famed off-roader SUV family alongside the 300, 70, and 250 Series models in its home market.

There, the model dubbed the “baby Land Cruiser” will be available in a sole VX variant, priced at 4.5 million yen (~RM112,530), making it more expensive than the entry-level Harrier (3.71 million yen or approx. RM92,780) while matching the RAV4’s starting price.

Powering the VX is the familiar 2.7-litre naturally aspirated 2TR-FE petrol engine, producing a respectable 163 PS and 246 Nm of torque. Drive is sent to the wheels through a six-speed Super ECT automatic transmission and a part-time four-wheel drive system.

According to Toyota, the transmission delivers smooth acceleration while improving refinement during everyday driving scenarios such as pulling away and low-speed manoeuvring, while also enhancing vehicle speed controllability on downhill slopes. The automaker claims a fuel consumption figure of 8.7 km/l based on the WLTC cycle.

As a refresher, the Land Cruiser FJ is underpinned by a ladder-frame chassis from Toyota’s IMV series, giving it all the rugged DNA expected from a Land Cruiser. The setup is paired with a double-wishbone suspension at the front and a four-link rigid suspension with a lateral rod at the rear.

Toyota has also introduced a number of tweaks to ensure the FJ remains capable when the tarmac ends, without sacrificing day-to-day comfort. These include a shortened wheelbase for a tighter 5.5-metre turning radius, as well as additional braces to improve lateral frame rigidity.

The SUV also makes use of strong yet lightweight high-tensile steel plates in its body structure, while extra spot welds on the underfloor help improve vibration damping and overall refinement.

If that’s not impressive enough, the Land Cruiser FJ boasts ground clearance comparable to the 250 Series, while offering approach and departure angles that are 15 degrees greater. Its wheel articulation is also said to rival that of the hardy 70 Series.

Further boosting its off-road credentials is a suite of electronic aids such as Downhill Assist Control (DAC), Hill Start Assist Control, and an electric rear differential lock.

On the outside, the Land Cruiser FJ stays true to its roots with a boxy silhouette that exudes toughness and dependability. Adding to its practical appeal are removable corner sections on both the front and rear bumpers, allowing owners to replace only damaged sections instead of the entire bumper assembly.

Standard equipment includes roof rails, side steps, a front skid plate to protect the engine and transmission, as well as a rear-mounted spare tyre that completes the classic off-roader look.

Inside, the cabin adopts a driver-focused cockpit layout designed to make it easier to judge the vehicle’s posture, while the low-set cowl and instrument panel improve forward visibility. Toyota says the monitor and switchgear are positioned to minimise eye movement, making them easier to operate during demanding drives.

Seating-wise, the FJ comes with a five-seat layout and 60:40 split-folding second-row seats that slide, recline, and feature seat backboards. Even with the rear seats in use, the SUV still offers a generous 795 litres of luggage space.

As for features, the Land Cruiser FJ comes equipped with a Panoramic View Monitor, Blind Spot Monitor, a 12.3-inch display audio system with Connected Navigation support, as well as the Toyota Safety Sense active safety suite featuring systems such as Pre-Collision System and Lane Departure Alert.

To spice things up further, buyers can opt for dealer-installed accessories such as body decals, MOLLE panels, and a range of gear from renowned off-road specialist ARB, including a roof rack, skid plate, and rock rails. Toyota also plans to introduce the Land Hopper, an electric foldable three-wheeled scooter, from 2027 onward.