Toyota Set to Unveil Land Cruiser FJ on October 20 to Challenge Bronco Sport
Toyota is set to reveal its highly anticipated Land Cruiser FJ on October 20, 2023, as part of the Japan Mobility Show Prologue. This compact SUV has generated excitement in the automotive community, with the unveiling scheduled for late afternoon on the U.S. East Coast, corresponding to the event in Japan.
Preview and Launch Details
According to reports from Mag-X, a Japanese outlet, the Land Cruiser FJ will have a private preview for select media members. A global launch is slated for October 21, 2023, at 5 a.m. local time.
Japan Mobility Show
The official public debut of the Land Cruiser FJ is expected at the Japan Mobility Show, which will open for press on October 29 and for the general public on October 30. Observers note that the timing appears to be strategically planned to target the U.S. market, where competition includes the Ford Bronco Sport and other compact SUVs.
Production and Market Strategy
- The Land Cruiser FJ will reportedly be manufactured in Thailand.
- It is anticipated to be exported to various global markets.
- The official launch in Japan is predicted for mid-2026.
Challenges may arise due to tariffs on foreign-built vehicles in the U.S., prompting speculation about potential North American production in the future.
Design and Features
While Toyota has not officially confirmed the Land Cruiser FJ, its design aligns with previous concepts. One notable reference is the Compact Cruiser EV Concept, unveiled in December 2021. A design patent revealed in March 2025 showcased a boxy compact SUV resembling this earlier concept.
Platform and Performance
The Land Cruiser FJ is likely to utilize Toyota’s IMV-0 body-on-frame platform. This is notable as it differentiates the model from rivals like the Bronco Sport and Subaru Forester Wilderness, which feature a unibody design.
The platform can accommodate various powertrains, including:
- Internal combustion engines
- Hybrid systems
- All-electric options
Initially, the FJ is expected to offer a combustion engine, potentially a 2.7-liter inline-four similar to what is found in the Land Cruiser Prado sold outside of North America. This flexibility in powertrain options suggests that Toyota is preparing to cater to diverse customer needs which also includes hybrid and electric variants in the future.
Conclusion
The upcoming Land Cruiser FJ promises to be a significant player in the compact SUV market, offering rugged capabilities designed for off-road adventures. As Toyota gears up for the reveal, enthusiasts eagerly await further details on this exciting addition to the Land Cruiser family.
