"MINI" LAND CRUISER FJ RETURNS // CONFIRMED FOR DEC 2024 LAUNCH BY BEST CAR MAGAZINE FROM JAPAN

The most promising and exciting new vehicle - "Mini Land Cruiser" or "Land Cruiser FJ" - is apparently confirmed for December 2024 reveal by the Best Car Magazine out of Japan. In its most recent edition, Best Car Magazine editors say that the new Land Cruiser FJ (likely name) is no longer just a speculation but confirmed for actual production and debut this year. The only big question is whether this Toyota Hilux-based ladder-frame FJ will reach North American market - something we won't know yet for a while. Watch as David talks about the latest prediction and information about this new exciting SUV from Toyota.
Automotive Press is owned and managed by David Koichi Chao, a global expert in the field of automotive evaluation, engineering, and strategy. With over 35 years of engineering experience, David is able to review vehicles from unique perspectives utilizing technical and specialized methods. David is a board member and a director at AJAC (Automobile Journalist Association of Canada).
David is known around the world as an authentic specialist of Lean/Agile Thinking, and travels all around the world to review vehicles and teach latest engineering methods. Born and raised in Japan, David has an engineering degree from University of British Columbia and post-graduate education from MIT and Harvard Business School in Boston.

[@BlackBullRising]

Anytime I hear someone say an upcoming vehicle will be affordable, I hear $60k moderately equipped.

[@Mycameron2323]

60k is cheap

[@Marvilalove]

@@Mycameron2323Yes, in Europe the same vehicle is €120k

[@OoavastoO]

@@Mycameron2323🤣🤣🤣

[@DDDYLN]

Truth

[@barryjames1203]

USA need this model! Please bring it here! I have been saving my money for this model, I know I'm not the only one. Make it a global product! This will be an epic seller!!

[@hutchfromba]

I don’t care what they call it. If it comes to the USA , I want it ! Small, powerful & rugged off roader.

[@kayleedawnread]

100%! If this comes to the US I would definitely buy this as my next vehicle

[@sargera1]

Yeah but this gonna rui. Tacoma n siblings Its like bedless tacona o a camry ebgine

[@AstrologyClub]

Exaaaaaactly

[@jessemorgan7007]

Naturally aspirated got my attention 😮

[@thinker2328]

Exactly

[@russt2237]

I doubt it will be naturally aspirated. More likely to be turbocharged. Most cars sold in the U.S. now are going turbo to meet stricter emissions standards without losing horsepower.

[@daviddupree1155]

Woohoo finally David pull some strings and tell Toyota to bring it to the North America market

[@sunset3052]

2.7L NA body on frame 6MT/AT 3500-4000lb Cross/Rav4 size and taller $35K-$40K (US/NA) Made in Japan I'm sold, thank you Toyota

[@chandleredwards]

Producing a new ICE model is akin to being a Dodo. EV needed to stay current, but Toyota refuses. Rivian R2 will be $45k and isn't archaic from the start.

[@jimmcclelland6910]

Let's hope they don't have that huge rear-quarter blind spot.

[@bradcomis1066]

If this comes to North America that would be so amazing!

[@KPHVAC]

Make it the size of a RAV4 with a good AWD or 4x4 system. If it's around $40,000 I would buy one!!

[@sanangelo7926]

40 is to high

[@KPHVAC]

@@sanangelo7926 I agree but we also have to be realistic. Our money isn't worth what it was 5 years ago. Inflation is hurting us all.

[@trdrav4]

"Affordable"....Toyota dealers be like, hold my beer

[@StubProductions]

🍺 🤣

[@davidzambrano9126]

People: "take my money"

[@trdrav4]

@@davidzambrano9126 you mean "Shut up and take my money"

[@James-il3tq]

Hyandai/KIA dealerships even worse. It's not a just a Toyota thing.

[@trdrav4]

@@James-il3tq A bad dealer is a bad dealer no matter what they sell...and yeah, we know a lot of H/K dealers suck, it doesn't justify Toyota dealers being d-bags either

[@xpeditionoverland]

The Suzuki Jimmy was not available here and would have sold well. If Toyota get this here it could work out but coupled with a small truck called The Scout!

[@smoothrc28]

I would buy the Suzuki Jimny!!

[@sargera1]

Too small for murricans unless they pull out longwheel like a 1.5 liter rubicon

[@kurtburkhardt5862]

This mini Land Cruiser sounds great. With people in the US wanting giant SUV's I'm afraid this won't make it here. It would be great for narrower trails and with body on frame could be modified and still very reliable. Would certainly consider buying one if they do allow it to be sold in the US.

[@Marvilalove]

What is wrong with people in USA, why they want so big cars, do they have large ego or what?

[@davefigore7843]

This would be Absolutely Wonderful if Toyota would bring this to North America. Especially with a Naturally Aspirated Engine. Much More Attractive to More People.

[@10cpaul]

how many SUVS? need a small truck

[@nathansharma87]

Of course it's coming to America. Everything Japan makes, designs and builds is crafted with America in mind first.

[@J.R.F.23]

@@nathansharma87that’s not true. There are many models of vehicles made in Japan, that are not available in the USA.

[@nathansharma87]

@@J.R.F.23 I meant anything new and cool. For the first time ever the new Prado was released there first. Designed for America first and adapted for the rest of world We don't even get the headlight options etc you get. The new Nissan Z. Developed for LHD market first then adapted to RHD with minimal change later.

[@roberthoyt7921]

This Land Cruiser model could be aimed right at the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, and Land Rover Defender as long as it is NOT built on the outdated IMV platform used by the outgoing Hilux.

[@rumesh_lance]

I will absolutely buy it in 2025 if it comes to US

[@GlennNagata]

35k-40k

[@rumesh_lance]

@@GlennNagata No way

[@kayleedawnread]

@@GlennNagataI’d still buy it

[@ejaymallard]

Will def be 30-40k. It’s a direct competitor for the Bronco Sport.

[@roxydog545]

Not turbo, six speed manual, where do I send my money!!

[@daved7024]

So thankful Toyota is bringing the Land Cruiser FJ in the States on the big positive note naturally aspirated 4 cylinder. I'll be buying one. That mini truck would sell like crazy in the States. Thanks David for the update 🙂👍👍

[@michaelsmith9308]

Toyota I know you will read this.....bring it to the USA first! Just finish off JEEP:)

[@christopherkozal7987]

Toyota better bring this to the US & Canada. It’ll be a huge mistake if they don’t.

[@moeanthony9308]

Agreed

[@LexusGX460-OFF-ROAD]

*Breakover angle is back!!!* ❤

[@CarlosOteroC]

There is a 2.4 diesel that is used in the Hilux Champ and in lower trims of the Hilux, that engine would be a great fit for the LCFJ.

[@SasukeUchiha-zu6dw]

I have a feeling that for the US diesel is pretty much dead except HD trucks.

[@frussonj]

This will have a huge following.

[@KirkKreifels]

So close!

[@rightlanehog3151]

Yet so far. 😉

[@AutomotivePress]

Let's hope it arrives here!

[@joeschlepp]

doesn't meet North American safety standards in that configuration. it would have to be modified for Toyota to sell it here😢

[@utubetjc]

Hope it will have full time 4WD!

[@ProjectSimusFlorida]

Have the 2007 cruiser FG cruiser with 367,000 miles I would love to get a brand new FG!

[@cartopia6161]

Needs removable panels and/or a roof! Come on Toyota.

[@markemmerton5350]

Great, I can expect to see them in Canada by 2030.

[@scottluthy5828]

Yes it absolutely should come to North America. Naturally aspirated sold me immediately. I would buy one for sure. Our 2019 rav 4 le has a tremendous dynamic force 4 cylinder naturally aspirated engine. Flawless. My wife and I love rav 4 but it lacks a little bit off road. Though it does ok. A naturally aspirated engine will bring people out to buy this little fj.

[@Ryan.Hannah]

Body on frame Naturally aspirated Add a manual and I'm sold.

[@lukesmith981]

Toyota should name it, “FJ CRUISER”. Simple as that!

[@cherielorenzo912]

Yes, bring it to the USA!!!

[@doughalldorson8663]

It will be in my driveway if it comes to Canada ,please bring it Toyota 😄

[@helenguerzon2887]

I’ve been waiting for this for 2 years now😢

[@LifeWorthLivin]

Toyota, Bring it to USA

[@perfectlybalanced8995]

A little inconsistency I’d like to point out is that you said it will ride on the TNGA-F architecture yet later you stated it will be based on the Hilux Champ The Hilux Champ rides on the IMV architecture and not the TNGA-F architecture. While the vehicle would have a greater chance coming to the states if it was on the TNGA-F platform, let’s just hope Toyota brings it here regardless of what it’s based on

[@SteveCondurelis]

The Toyota retailer network is experiencing major hate, apparently for a good reason. The Southeastern U.S. especially.

[@VABrowneMDPhD]

David, this vehicle would be a hit in North America, especially if it comes with locking center and rear differentials and has enough articulation and ground clearance to really be an off-roader!

[@DDDYLN]

I own a 2011 Nissan Xterra Pro-4X. I'm going to try to keep it running as long as possible. When it dies, I'll probably buy a Honda Civic Hatchback. Screw these ridiculous effing prices! I don't care anymore if people make fun of my vehicle. I'd rather be able to afford the essentials in life, and send my daughter to the best state university.

[@benjamincurtis6283]

Land Cruiser Stout! I'm saving money now! I have to go check the couch cushions for coins and plan meals around rice and beans.

[@edbabakhan8505]

This will be a top selling model for Toyota. It will be a huge miss if they don’t bring it to the US and Canada. 🤞

[@Showmetheevidence-]

First minute+ is "this is confirmed, and also confirmed because its now confirmed" 😶

[@DDDYLN]

If it comes to the US, it will be an unreliable turbo 4 cylinder, and it will cost $50K+. US safety and emissions regulations have made it such that new vehicles are more than double the old prices, and they're also less reliable. Hopefully, we can elect a president that will remove all these ridiculous regulations. If not, the only vehicles people will be able to afford, will be Honda Civics.

[@bocklicious]

Needed this awesome news today, thanks David! Super excited to hear more!

[@danielmartz3145]

I’m a bit confused. TNGA is totally different than the IMV platform that rides under the Hilux Champ, so which one is it? The Champ platform isn’t really new either. It’s been underpinning the Hilux, Fortuner, and BOF versions of the Innova for years now. If the Land Cruiser FJ uses the IMV platform, then I think it will be the exact chassis as the Fortuner. The wheelbase is only about 2” longer than the Corolla Cross, but with a longitudinal mounted engine, the LC-FJ could have the same overall length as the Corolla Cross. Maybe even a bit shorter (not including spare). The 2.7 would be unacceptable in the NA market. If that’s the only engine it has, then I doubt we will see the LC-FJ in NA.

[@AutomotivePress]

Sorry to confuse you... originally Best Car Magazine reported that the Mini Land Cruiser will be a smaller version of the TNGA-F based Land Cruiser 250 series and therefore potentially built in Japan. Then just recently, they changed the story to say that it might be based on the Hilux IMV platform instead, but wasn't sure. So what I meant in the video is that it could be either one (but not both obviously) but no one knows for sure which platform. My bet is that this will be a IMV based vehicle to be sold in Asia and elsewhere and won't come to North America.

[@danielmartz3145]

@@AutomotivePress cool, thanks for the clarification!

[@youtubecarspottersguide1]

2:44 need lager rear 1/4 window side glass ,needs to be more like the LC250 , Toyota ruined the look of the 2nd gen scion XB and toyota matrix on the 2nd gen cars we need larger 1/4 windows to see out

[@rightlanehog3151]

🙌🙌🙌🙌

[@gerry7520]

Will it come to Australia?

[@hutchfromba]

N. America is a must in order to grow sales. 😊

[@bjsimon802]

Please bring to north america, please

[@JamesR-g4j]

Hey Japan man I like my 08 FJ better it's proven and always getting offers for it only 1 percent made of mine black and white ying and yang

[@Chubbydippin]

Kind of exciting. But if, big if, it comes to the states, surely it would be sold for 45-50k. Raking us over the coals here in states is as American as apple car play pie.

[@moeanthony9308]

Thats the problem you are likely correct

[@barcainho]

Yes please, I hope Toyota brings this to US! #toyotausa #toyota

[@ryanrau6714]

Toyota would be insane not to sell this in NA you can print $$$$$$$$

[@steveh545]

Cool. Bring it to the US. Keep it cheap.

[@healer81]

small engines are designed for small cars. This mini LC will work out for Toyota compared to its bigger brothers like the taco, tundra

[@WilSkjerven]

Praying for this to come to Canada, I would trade in my 2024 Passport Trailsport for this sweet little Land Cruiser in a heartbeat

[@phiavang2982]

Take my money

[@rick8125]

Toyota doesn’t use the naturally aspirated 2.7 in any of there North America vehicles, so my guess is it will not come here. Similar engines are now used by car manufacturers in multiple vehicles in their lineup. Why would Toyota build the 2.7 and use it exclusively in one vehicle here, doesn’t make sense.

[@rightlanehog3151]

The 2.7 is installed in hundreds of thousands of vehicles around the globe. It was used in the Tacoma until 2023.

[@rick8125]

Exactly, around the globe! Discontinued in the US

[@mandukate]

I would buy it since I won't be able to afford a new $80K TRD PRO 4RUNNER 😅

[@alimechs]

Good update keep it up the good work 👍👍👍

[@chrisdakins2010]

I’d love to have the FJ in Canada! With a manual transmission

[@rightlanehog3151]

🙌🙌🙌🙌

[@peterscott2662]

I really hope the don't do that massive thick rear pillar. I know that had that on the FJ, but that was one reason I never wanted an FJ. It's more flaw than feature.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Agreed.

[@SteveCondurelis]

I'm probably in, depending on its ability to compete in price and performance with its rivals.

[@davidpun8751]

How about taking that vehicle and turning it into a pickup... and maybe calling it.... the STOUT!!!!!

[@bodhi7911]

🎉

[@javadabaron81]

I would love one of these

[@sumsday5564]

$25,0000-30,000? Yeah, right! They'll upsale these at local dealerships to $45,000 or more. I bet the price on these things are gonna be a lot higher than what people think. Toyota dealerships are awful with pricing.

[@thewholeeventhorizon]

Seems like all these new Toyota and Lexus vehicles are the same. They just shape them a little differently and call them a different name.

[@dirtycommtroop]

I won't hold my breath. Lots of factors in play here. In the current US market I believe there is a demand for AFFORDABLE and capable vehicles. Subaru's Crosstrek and Forester Wilderness editions are flying off the shelves because you can get them under 40k.

[@retirementOwl]

We need a high-end version in the U.S. with high ground clearance (10"+), optional big tires and suspension, rear diff lockers w/good torque and gas mileage. The rendering on this video looks very boring to me. Hopefully, they come out with something more aggressive and cool looking.

[@denisleblanc4506]

Toyota can't afford to watch Ford print money with their Bronco Sport and not compete. Though I doubt they can sell it here for $30k. You have to add their safety sense 3, dual zone climate, big screen, backup camera, all the airbags, heated a cooled seats, heated steering wheel etc. They will probably price it above the Bronco Sport and that's already pushing $40k.

[@smoothrc28]

I don’t want adorable!! Needs to look more aggressive!! I bought a 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross!! Good on gas. Gives a smooth ride and very quiet. But it’s definitely not quiet when it comes to interior noise. Really wanted a 4Runner or Tacoma. But just too expensive. Bought a new 4Runner in 200O. Chassis rotted away in 11 years. Only had 110.000 miles on it.

[@wildonion99]

A shame if the engine is true. That 2.7 is an old boat anchor. At the very least an optional hybrid setup could solve the hp/torque problem, and double or triple the fuel economy. Just use the 2L hybrid from the CC and new prius. And for gods sake dont put any piano gloss black vomit in there.

[@moeanthony9308]

Old boat=more reliability=less cost

[@bortojo]

Everything that makes this cheaper and reliable also makes it a compliance nightmare in North America. If you want one of there you can probably import one in 2044 when it's 20 years old. Write your local politician to voice your opinion.

[@Pete9712CX]

Send it to the US powered by the 2.7L with a 5 speed auto and a manual option too…I think it will do alright as a safer, more reliable, and capable off road alternative to the jeep and bronco. No top to pop, folks will get over that 😊. Toyota, while you’re at it, please give us a vinyl floor to match my FJ please.

[@SG-js2qn]

If they would bring an inexpensive utility vehicle to North America, it would SELL. Which is probably why they won't do it.

[@djsangre]

We don't have the new Thai Hill here, but I'd love to have a proper BoF SUV built on that platform! I like the front style of that truck, imagine it with the Land Cruiser first edition round lights! Awesome.

[@bobd251]

NA AND Non-Hybrid 👍 👍. Give it the very nice fabric (perfect imho) interior as in the new 1958 edition Land Cruiser I sat in and it will be hard for me to resist.

[@deepbludude4697]

Toyota would be foolish not to keep these cruisers coming. My ex had a Scion XB that kinda looked like those drawings, Ill keep my 79 FJ troopy diesel, and my 88 FJ62.

[@geoffreychang1030]

Hi David Is it possible to purchase a Toyota Hilux Champ diesel LHD unit for export to south america. Thanks. Geoffrey

[@fraxonthefurry21]

Well the Champ can't be sold here in the states because of the chicken tax. BUT an SUV doesn't apply under the chicken tax which would make it actually feasible for toyota to bring it here.

[@matthewhuszarik4173]

I hope them come with a hybrid version turned for gas mileage unlike the Land Cruiser, 4Runner, and Sequoia.

[@cmdrls212]

25-30k USD? not a chance. toyota gave up making affordable cars. This will be another 45-65k vehicle...sad

[@spinnetti]

No way body on frame for 25k... 35k maybe, and just to start - probably more like 40 once they force options on you. If champ based, not coming to the US no doubt.

[@Serconn]

The wife is looking for something like this, hope it shows up.

[@sanangelo7926]

If they can do it for around 25K it will be a hit

[@kurtgellert9166]

The low power numbers likely means DOA in the US market and will deter the brand image of the LC name. But it will likely last forever...

[@Oli-l5m]

Would love one of these but don't see it appearing in the UK for legal reasons. It's hard work getting any non ev models into the market here.

[@smoothrc28]

It won’t be 4WD. I will probably be AWD. Im not a big off-roader . But don’t think anyone will be turning it into an off road monster!!

[@franciscocolon8612]

USA need this model ! This could be my next vehicle. Please bring it to North America.

[@aceyboy]

My god this is desperately needed in Australia. Our only options are the piss weak Jimny or gas guzzling, unreliable Jeep Wrangler.

[@jcollins1305]

I Don’t think it’s coming here to the USA because of the NA engine. Emissions regulations will make sure of that.

[@Mist3man4423]

I just realised that Toyota will be bringing back the FJ nameplate in a shorter, modern form. If we look at the shadow image, my interpretation is that the glass after the C pillar of the previous generation FJ cruiser is removed as the vehicle is shortened but it appears to maintain the suicide doors. All other aesthethics also remain the same but mordernised.

[@farcinue]

I like everything except the thic rear end… but a compact sized LC would be great.

[@evankatz2893]

I would trade in my 2023 mini cooper countryman which I love in a minute for one of these, let’s hope it comes to the us!

[@michaeljoos9753]

Yes, please bring to US. Looking to replace my Ford Edge next April.

[@4af]

The Japanese version has world famous 2TR-FE 4 cylinder - famous for it's stellar reliability, million mile durability potential and ease of servicing. Will be incredibly popular if it's also available in the USA.

[@CostasX5]

I can t wait for europe , with a decent price not many luxuries , reliable and 4x4 that kicks ass!

[@davewilliams2886]

In other words, they are re-releasing the RAV4. It started as a boxy 4 cylinder, awd, with tire on back.

[@ladweeb1798]

😂

[@rick8125]

Rav4 is not a body on frame suspension

[@Hybridgtr]

If they stick to this design it could be a hit. The design looks great and not over the top. Good job Toyota if they follow through.

[@Mist3man4423]

Does any one believe that C pillar would make it to production? Nonetheless, thanks for the update David. We are getting warmer. Super excited indeed!

[@youarerightboss]

They ruined the Land Cruiser 'Cheap'. The previous generation was the best

[@firstlast-zi9zc]

The top of the line 300 series is a thing, just not in the us. Mid tier landcruiser have always been a thing globally just recently in the US though.