New Toyota FJ Cruiser Secrets Emerge: How Will It Differ From 4Runner And Land Cruiser?
Rumors of the Toyota FJ Cruiser’s return have intensified, with new insider information from Japanese outlet Creative Trend revealing details about its likely powertrain. The original FJ Cruiser gained a loyal following for its retro style and exceptional off-road capabilities, and now Toyota is exploring how to bring it back while making space in an increasingly crowded SUV lineup. The key questions are: what will power it, and how will it stand apart from the modernized 4Runner and the downsized Land Cruiser?
Four-Cylinder Power for New FJ, Focus on Durability
Unlike the previous FJ Cruiser’s thirsty 4.0-liter V6, the new model is expected to be powered by a 2.7-liter four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine. This powertrain choice suggests Toyota is prioritizing durability and reliability over outright performance. This is anticipated to be the same engine found in the Land Cruiser 250 sold outside the United States, where it produces around 160 horsepower. If the revived FJ makes it to the American market, it’s expected to receive either turbocharging or electrification to boost its output to meet local expectations, with no diesel variant anticipated.
The new FJ Cruiser is also expected to ride on the same ladder-frame platform shared with the Hilux Champ, a rugged chassis-cab pickup that recently launched in Thailand. These tough underpinnings should provide an excellent foundation for a new FJ Cruiser that is at least as capable off-road as its predecessor.
Finding its Place in Toyota’s Crowded SUV Lineup
With the modern 4Runner (starting over $40,000 with a 278-hp turbo-four) and the all-new, downsized Land Cruiser (starting at $57,200 with a 326-hp hybrid setup) already occupying the mid-size SUV segment, Toyota’s lineup is tighter than ever. If the new FJ Cruiser were to return as another mid-sized model, it could create unnecessary overlap.
This suggests that the new FJ Cruiser will likely go smaller, aligning more with the Compact Cruiser EV concept revealed a few years ago. A smaller footprint would minimize overlap with the 4Runner and Land Cruiser, and also make a stronger case for the lower-power 2.7-liter engine. This strategy would allow the FJ Cruiser to once again distinguish itself with a more expressive, retro-inspired styling, echoing the distinctive look of the Compact Cruiser concept.
Anticipated Reveal and Future Outlook
An official reveal for the new FJ Cruiser is anticipated in late October in Japan. This event is expected to provide more concrete answers regarding its size, positioning, and how it will carve out its niche within Toyota’s diverse and popular SUV offerings.
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