"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

[@jessemorgan7007]

Naturally aspirated got my attention 😮

[@hutchfromba]

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

[@RamSlow]

I'll never step foot in a Toyota dealership again. Will consider if I can order directly from Toyota without any dealer bull shit.

[@Mycameron2323]

😂 😂

[@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"

[@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.

[@daviddupree1155]

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

[@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!

[@jimmcclelland6910]

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

[@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.

[@rumesh_lance]

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

[@GlennNagata]

35k-40k

[@bradcomis1066]

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

[@LexusGX460-OFF-ROAD]

*Breakover angle is back!!!* ❤

[@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 🙂👍👍

[@bocklicious]

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

[@frussonj]

This will have a huge following.

[@user-xw8to9iw3j]

Great job. Always watch your stuff.

[@ProjectSimusFlorida]

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

[@alimechs]

Good update keep it up the good work 👍👍👍

[@cherielorenzo912]

Yes, bring it to the USA!!!

[@hctim96]

Good stuff, great channel

[@Miltonsophie]

I might have to go to Japan to get this Land Cruiser FJ. Your videos are great and you have so much knowledge about cars. ☺️

[@barcainho]

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

[@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.

[@Ryan.Hannah]

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

[@markemmerton5350]

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

[@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!

[@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😢

[@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!

[@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.

[@donbeaulieu1385]

Thanks David this is exciting news I'm definitely interested in purchasing an FJ mini Landcruiser. I'm a Lexus 470 owner for 16 years and look forward to adding the new FJ to my collection.

[@user-tp4og1wr4m]

Nice video. It will be more iconic and cooler the renderings online

[@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

[@terencesingerline135]

So looking forward to one arriving in the USA…We can only hope

[@RyanLarivee]

This is awesome, I hope they bring it to North America.

[@ismaelcruz3315]

I wish it would come to the US market but I dought it. Have you heard anything about the Toyota Stout pickup?

[@CotaF1]

This needs to come to the US!

[@cristiankarlo]

Any news on the Crown Sport coming to NA? 😅🙏

[@donayre21]

do you know if the 4runner will be out by this year or next? I placed my order but I am getting mixed info

[@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.

[@tommiller12345]

Thanks for the update. This would be very popular in the US. It’s a bit like the boxy Ford Bronco Sport except the Ford is unibody.

[@dse6905]

Can't wait to have this Cruiser FJ come to Manila, Ph. Got to have one though🎉🎉🎉

[@PaintedCloudsStudio]

Looks cute! Hope it runs just as well.

[@youknownothing3766]

I can't wait, Im definitely getting one if its got a good drive train and is efficient.

[@bng9423]

I would love to get one!

[@SteveCondurelis]

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

[@johnbarker4783]

Will this have CVT transmission or regular 6 or 8 speed? Really wish it would have more power…at least 200

[@MisterWileyOne]

I hope this also means we'll get news on the Stout soon

[@kittenastrophy5951]

Media in Thailand told that still not sure whether it will come out 2025 or 2026 since the emission regulation still not steady. Whether pure turbo diesl or turbodiesel with mild hybrid is in decision. Of course here we don't use petrol in light truck.

[@GlennNagata]

Absolutely!

[@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.

[@javadabaron81]

I would love one of these

[@saviom8166]

Do you know about the 5-door Suzuki Jimny? I have two of those. I was considering getting a third, but I think I will wait to see what this turns out to be. I'm in India.

[@beeslandscaping]

Nice 👍🏻

[@brianaustin1328]

I really like it!

[@joelawrence56]

I have the latest Hilux diesel in Thailand where the new Champ is built for SE Asian markets only,so am eagerly waiting to see this mini Land Cruiser which could easily be engineered in both LHD and RHD...as Hilux is currently built...

[@0naquest]

I hope this comes to north america 🙏

[@doughalldorson8663]

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

[@arashefi]

I think FJ Cross is a good name for this new baby😊

[@davidplotkin5173]

What sort of MPG could this get, if it's a smaller version of Land Cruiser, yet not a gas/electric non-plug-in hybrid?

[@karltraveldude7817]

I want one , when they get here !

[@paologualdi7413]

Do you know if it will be marketed in Europe?

[@pinkipipe]

Love❤️ toyota 🇯🇵

[@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!

[@Lani34]

I need this vehicle! I live in Chicago and it would be perfect for me.

[@farcinue]

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

[@bjsimon802]

Please bring to north america, please

[@jmoranretana]

Suzuki Jimny is a huge success worldwide, I bet Toyota wants some of that pie and a "Mini FJ" could be compelling.

[@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

[@patgarrett9454]

I hope the stout comes after. I’ll figure out how to buy one.

[@scooterpickle8625]

I think my wife and I would buy two of these! We absolutely loved our FJ, but unfortunately didn't need a third vehicle, so we sold it. Neither of us need a large vehicle any more.

[@InvestBetter.]

I expect it to be $30-45k I'd also expect to see the Rav4's 219HP Hybrid engine featured

[@Kung.Pao.Kitty.]

Let's see if they add a TRD or Trail Hunter trims.

[@johndiaz7240]

Thank you, I doubt it will be sold in Canada and the States.

[@bjsimon802]

Automotive press? are they using the new 4cylinder engine they recently built?

[@dbsantanapr]

This would be my choice for a new vehicle. Hope that rear blind spot isnt so big!

[@SteveCondurelis]

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

[@user-uj3ch6xg6m]

Will it come to South Africa and when

[@timmoody5461]

Toyota definitely needs to bring this to the North American market.

[@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!

[@XerxesTheGreatOne]

If this thing makes it to North America, I really, really, truly hope that that Toyota's marketing department doesn't botch the pricing like they did with Tacoma and what they announced for the new 4Runner by making them super expensive. I also hope that they don't force feed us the hybrid drivetrains that no one asked for, as the only choice on trims that everyone wants. I would be the first to buy one of these as my Chevrolet Trackers are getting a little older and no comparable replacement vehicles are available here in North America for them.

[@Rickster1965]

At that “Low” price point, I’m venturing to say that some Toyota dealerships will be adding “Market Adjustments” $5k-$10k??

[@DE-ef3xd]

If it came with a 3.5L 2GR-FKS, it would be a home run.

[@lukesmith981]

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

[@frankthatank4818]

Hope the LC FJ is full time 4WD and I would really love a diesel Toyota to add to my collection

[@chrisdakins2010]

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

[@rightlanehog3151]

🙌🙌🙌🙌

[@rightlanehog3151]

David, Now that the Land Cruiser 1958 is being built at Hino's Hamura plant, I hope there is still room for the new FJ. If the FJ fails to meet our standards, I am willing to compromise with a 250 Series equipped with the 2.7 2TR-FE engine😉

[@roberthoyt7921]

Toyota may have to scrap the Sequoia and perhaps replace it with a LWB 3-row version of the Land Cruiser 250/Lexus GX550.

[@bmac9936]

This is priced great for the US market but sadly nothing else seems to fit. The size might prove useable like the old Suzuki Jimny but the ability to meet our safety and emission standards is questionable.

[@utubetjc]

Hope it will have full time 4WD!

[@user-mp2cb4mb9p]

Toyota please bring this to 🇺🇸 . I will definitely get one. Many my wife also. I now have a 08 fj

[@gregmgm06]

I've had large 4x4's all my life and sooo ready to downsize to this.......if it has a proper 4x4 system.

[@bodhi7911]

🎉

[@gunsmokezz]

Just need it full 4wd option

[@bicitipsconalejandrodiaz544]

😮 Cuando llega a MÉXICO....?

[@symmetry08]

If that is the case, every-where in the world folks prefer smaller and frugal engine that is reliable at certain capabilty, not above and not underpowered either. Managable sixe will be more important than just size statement, as people are getting somewhat less wealthy overall ( the same time rich getting richer ).

[@gerardohuerta6925]

Bring it to USA

[@mandukate]

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

[@sanangelo7926]

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

[@brendamccullough9170]

YES. When the old FJ Cruiser was discontinued that was a huge mistake as the consumers loved it.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Did you notice nobody was actually buying the FJ the last few years it was on sale here?

[@jamesvegas702]

nice. bring back mini 4x4’s.