Toyota Secures ‘Land Cruiser FJ’ Trademark for Downsized Model Development

By Jeff Gibbs

Toyota has recently taken a signifcant step forward in the development of a downsized LandCruiser model by securing the trademark for the ‘Land Cruiser FJ’ name with IP Australia. This move mirrors a similar trademark application made in Japan towards the end of last year.

The specifc nature of this new LandCruiser FJ remains somewhat uncertain. It’s unclear whether it will directly compete with vehicles like the Suzuki Jimny XL or the GWM Tank 300, or if it will take the form of a smaller SUV built on a unibody platform rather than a traditional ladder frame. Additionally, whether it will be an electric vehicle (EV) is yet to be confrmed.

However, Toyota’s intentions to introduce a sub-Prado off-road SUV have been evident for some time. The concept of such a vehicle was teased during the global unveiling of the new Prado last year. Drawing from Toyota’s previous FJ Cruiser model, which was essentially a retro-inspired off-road variant of the outgoing Prado, there’s speculation that the new iteration will follow a similar design approach. This speculation is reinforced by the similarity in size between the upcoming Prado and the LandCruiser 300 Series.

A teaser released by Toyota in August showcased a vehicle with a shortened wheelbase, generous ground clearance, a spare wheel mounted on the tailgate, and a front fascia reminiscent of the 2021 Toyota Compact Cruiser EV concept—a compact off-roader believed to offer a glimpse into Toyota’s plans for a smaller off-road vehicle. Reports from Japanese media suggest that the production version of the FJ will initially feature various internal combustion powertrains, with an EV variant expected to join the line-up later, mirroring the concept. The choice of internal combustion engines is said to be tailored to specifc market preferences.

Insider sources suggest that the new FJ will share dimensions with the current Toyota Corolla Cross, albeit with increased height due to its enhanced ground clearance. For power, the FJ is rumoured to adopt the 2.5-liter petrolelectric hybrid system from the larger RAV4 for most markets, positioning it between the Jimny XL and Tank 300 in terms of size while matching the latter in power output.

Toyota has maintained secrecy regarding further details since the initial teaser release. However, indications suggest that the baby LandCruiser will be unveiled sometime this year. With the recent trademark application dated February 23, an Australian release seems imminent.