The legendary Toyota Land Cruiser nameplate is all set to expand its footprint in India once again. After creating global buzz at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ — a rugged, adventure-ready SUV — is officially gearing up for its India debut. However, unlike its bigger sibling, the Land Cruiser 300, the FJ won’t be getting a diesel heart. Instead, it will rely entirely on petrol and hybrid powertrains, aligning with Toyota’s future electrification goals.
Interestingly, the new Land Cruiser FJ will also mark a major milestone for Toyota in India. The SUV will not only be sold here but will also be manufactured locally — a move that strengthens India’s position as a global production and export hub for the Japanese auto giant.
Table of Contents
Toyota Land Cruiser FJ: India Launch Timeline and Manufacturing Plans
According to the latest reports, Toyota is targeting a second-half 2028 launch for the Land Cruiser FJ in India. Production will begin a few months prior, with the first units expected to roll out from the automaker’s upcoming manufacturing facility in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra.
This state-of-the-art plant — part of Toyota’s ₹26,000 crore investment plan in India — will focus on both domestic and export markets. In fact, the Land Cruiser FJ is set to become the first model produced at this new factory.
Earlier speculation had suggested that the SUV might be built in Thailand, but fresh information confirms that India will be the global manufacturing base for this model. The move is expected to create significant employment opportunities while boosting local sourcing and component manufacturing under Toyota’s localization strategy.
Reports indicate that Toyota aims to produce around 89,000 units annually, with nearly 40,000 units reserved for export markets, particularly the Middle East — a region where the Land Cruiser badge enjoys cult status.
A Rugged, Compact Land Cruiser For Modern Adventurers
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ is being positioned as a smaller, more accessible sibling to the full-sized Land Cruiser 300. It retains the brand’s off-road DNA but packages it in a compact, lifestyle-oriented SUV form that appeals to urban explorers and off-road enthusiasts alike.
Visually, the SUV borrows inspiration from the iconic FJ Cruiser — known for its retro design and bold proportions — while incorporating modern styling elements. The upright stance, squared-off wheel arches, and chunky bumpers highlight its off-road intent, while updated LED lighting, a large grille, and modern alloys give it a contemporary look.
Dimensions and Design Highlights
In terms of size, the Land Cruiser FJ measures:
- Length: 4,575 mm
- Width: 1,855 mm
- Height: 1,960 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,580 mm
- Kerb Weight: 1,900 kg
This makes it shorter than the Toyota Fortuner by 220 mm, giving it a tighter wheelbase and better maneuverability — ideal for off-road trails and narrow urban streets. Despite being smaller, it still maintains the rugged appeal expected from a Land Cruiser, with impressive ground clearance and a robust chassis.
The SUV is built to deliver a more agile and dynamic driving experience, without compromising the go-anywhere capability Toyota’s Land Cruiser line-up is known for.
Engine and Powertrain Options: Petrol and Hybrid Focus
Toyota has confirmed that the Land Cruiser FJ will not feature a diesel engine, a move in line with its global sustainability and electrification strategy. Instead, it will be offered with a range of petrol and hybrid powertrains.
The entry-level version will use the 2TR-FE 2.7-litre petrol engine, delivering 163 hp and 246 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. While these figures might not seem overwhelming, Toyota is expected to optimize this powertrain for reliability, refinement, and real-world performance.
Additionally, Toyota is developing a 2.7-litre strong hybrid and a plug-in hybrid version, offering better fuel efficiency and lower emissions. These hybrid options could make the Land Cruiser FJ one of the most eco-friendly vehicles in the rugged SUV segment — a big plus in markets like India, where environmental regulations are tightening.
Localization and Export Strategy
Toyota’s decision to manufacture the Land Cruiser FJ in India underscores its long-term commitment to the country. By focusing on high localization levels, the company aims to keep costs competitive while meeting the quality standards expected of the Land Cruiser name.
A substantial portion of the vehicle’s components — including mechanical parts, electronics, and interior materials — will be sourced locally. This strategy not only reduces import dependency but also allows Toyota to price the Land Cruiser FJ more competitively, making it an attractive alternative to mid-size premium SUVs like the Jeep Meridian and MG Gloster.
Moreover, India’s production will cater to export markets such as the Middle East, Africa, and select Southeast Asian countries, where demand for durable, petrol-powered SUVs remains strong.
Features and Interior Expectations
While Toyota has yet to officially reveal the India-specific feature list, global prototypes showcased at the Japan Mobility Show 2025 give us a good idea of what to expect.
Inside, the Land Cruiser FJ will likely combine retro-inspired design cues with modern digital technology. Expect a rugged dashboard layout with large knobs and buttons for easy use during off-road adventures, complemented by a digital instrument cluster, large infotainment touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and premium upholstery.
Safety will also be a top priority. Toyota is expected to equip the FJ with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) suite, including features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, pre-collision braking, and multiple airbags.
Other expected highlights include:
- 4WD with terrain response modes
- Locking differentials for extreme off-roading
- Wireless phone charging
- Panoramic sunroof (on higher trims)
- Advanced traction and hill assist systems
Toyota Land Cruiser FJ vs Toyota Fortuner
The upcoming Land Cruiser FJ will sit below the Fortuner in Toyota’s SUV lineup. While the Fortuner remains a popular full-size SUV in India with diesel and petrol options, the FJ will target a different audience — one that values design, technology, and off-road character in a slightly more compact package.
Here’s how they compare:
| Specification | Toyota Land Cruiser FJ | Toyota Fortuner |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4,575 mm | 4,795 mm |
| Width | 1,855 mm | 1,855 mm |
| Height | 1,960 mm | 1,835 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,580 mm | 2,745 mm |
| Engine | 2.7L Petrol / Hybrid | 2.8L Diesel / 2.7L Petrol |
| Drivetrain | 4WD (Standard) | RWD / 4WD |
| Transmission | 6-speed AT | 6-speed AT |
| Launch Year | 2028 | On Sale |
| Manufacturing | India (New Plant) | India (Bidadi Plant) |
The Land Cruiser FJ will serve as a more stylish, urban-friendly alternative to the Fortuner, yet with serious off-road capabilities for those seeking adventure.
Global and Indian Market Significance
Toyota’s choice to produce the Land Cruiser FJ in India is not just a strategic business decision — it’s a statement of confidence in the country’s growing automotive manufacturing ecosystem. With increasing export demand and government incentives, India is emerging as a global hub for SUVs and hybrid vehicles.
For Indian buyers, this means the opportunity to own a legendary Land Cruiser model at a more accessible price, built right here in India. While pricing is still years away from being confirmed, industry estimates suggest a starting price of around ₹35–40 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base petrol variant.
Conclusion
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ represents the perfect blend of Toyota’s rugged off-road heritage and its modern hybrid-driven future. With its global debut at the Japan Mobility Show and India confirmed as its manufacturing base, the SUV is all set to redefine the mid-size off-road SUV market when it launches in 2028.
Without a diesel engine but equipped with advanced petrol-hybrid powertrains, the Land Cruiser FJ is expected to deliver a unique combination of performance, sustainability, and reliability — attributes that have long defined Toyota’s success story.
FAQs
When will the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ launch in India?
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ is expected to launch in India during the second half of 2028.
Where will the Land Cruiser FJ be manufactured?
Toyota will produce the SUV at its new manufacturing facility in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra.
Will the Land Cruiser FJ have a diesel engine?
No, Toyota has confirmed that the Land Cruiser FJ will be available only with petrol and hybrid powertrains.