2026 Toyota Land Cruiser: Few vehicle nameplates are as evocative as the Toyota Land Cruiser. The name signifies incredible off-road capability right off the showroom floor.
Land Cruiser owners also often look to this two-row off-road SUV as a blank slate for building their dream wilderness destroyer. With the latest generation that debuted two years ago, Toyota made the Land Cruiser smaller and cheaper without reducing the model’s overall appeal.
We expect the 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser to also come standard with a hybrid powertrain that helps it get pretty good fuel economy for such a boxy-looking SUV. Since the new Land Cruiser is still relatively new, we don’t expect any major changes for the 2026 Land Cruiser.
All great off-road choices, the Toyota Land Cruiser, 4Runner, and Tacoma pickup truck are all constructed from the same fundamental basis. This raises the question of where the Land Cruiser belongs.
Of course the 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser will be a bit bigger than the 4Runner, but it might be viewed as a substitute for the premium 4Runner trim and emphasize more generally on off-road performance. Standard locking center and rear differentials help to maximize grip on challenging trails; it also comes with low range and four-wheel drive.
The Land Cruiser also offers a front stabilizer bar that disconnects at the push of a button to increase front wheel travel in extreme situations. There’s also a low-speed cruise control system for off-road adventures, a variety of preprogrammed traction settings for various terrains, and a camera view that lets you see exactly where you’re placing your wheels. It does this while offering a signature style and trail cred that’s hard to match.
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser Review
Toyota officials have a tendency to hone their symbols instead of recreating them; the most recent update to the 300 Series Land Cruiser is no exception. The business has introduced a somewhat updated version of the full-size SUV in Japan; it is still not available in North America, where we receive the somewhat smaller Land Cruiser 250.
The 2026 MY 2026 Land Cruiser 300 lacks any design changes from the initial model launched in August 2021. Toyota is rather concentrating on technological improvements.
You’re out of luck for now, though, if you’re considering ordering: Toyota has halted new orders to concentrate on resolving the backlog of current orders.
- The Toyota Land Cruiser 300 has received its first major upgrade since its debut in 2021.
- Highlights include a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and enhanced anti-theft measures.
- Toyota has suspended orders for the SUV, focusing on filling existing waiting lists.
What We Expect
- We don’t expect any major changes to the 2026 Land Cruiser
- Part of the seventh generation Land Cruiser introduced in 2024
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser Redesign
We are very enthusiastic about the most obvious changes taking place in the cabin of the New 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser. Mid- and high-spec trims now come as standard with a new 12.3-inch TFT digital instrument cluster, which offers configurable graphics.
Meanwhile, the entry-level model gets a smaller 7-inch version. It’s paired with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen as standard, although buyers can opt for a larger 12.3-inch unit if they prefer something a little more commanding.
In response to the Land Cruiser’s unfortunate status as the most stolen vehicle in Japan, Toyota has introduced additional anti-theft measures. The connected service’s “My Car Start Lock” feature allows owners to lock the engine remotely via their smartphone, preventing thieves from getting away.
All trims are now equipped with a fingerprint authentication start button, a system that checks whether the smart key is actually near the vehicle, an alarm with a tilt sensor, and an immobilizer system.
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser EV
The Compact Cruiser EV will be an entirely new model for Toyota when it launches, and will probably have a more creative name. We expect this electric off-road vehicle to arrive in the 2026 model year.
The 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser EV will likely use some of the same suspension components and drivetrain as other upcoming electric Toyotas, but there isn’t much information about the Compact Cruiser EV’s mechanical components.
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ Baby
Depending on which rumors you believe, we have fresh information on Toyota’s much awaited FJ Land Cruiser or maybe the FJ Cruiser. The introduction is now reported to have been postponed from fall 2023 to early 2026.
Japanese sources say the continuing production slowdown and order suspension connected to the bigger Land Cruiser 250 seem to be the main causes of the delay when coupled with certification problems.
Still, we forecast that the growing tariff conflict started by the Trump administration’s most recent actions has upset production schedules not only for the FJ but for practically every other car out there. This article has been revised to show the most recent data.
Given the Land Cruiser moniker has always been associated with amazing off-road performance, it’s understandable that Toyota plans to keep this legacy going with next versions. Among them is the long-awaited little SUV said to be constructed on a ladder frame. The “2026 Toyota Land Cruiser Baby FJ” Land Cruiser is currently anticipated to appear later this year, maybe retaining the FJ brand in some shape to its name.
As the smallest member of the Land Cruiser family alongside the vintage 70 Series, current 250 Series (which is available in North America), and 300 Series (not available in the United States), the new vehicle first featured in official teasers in 2023. A trademark application that came after this fueled speculation on the little off-road vehicle’s likely adoption of the Land Cruiser FJ brand.
- Toyota is working on a new, smaller Land Cruiser model, which is expected to launch next year.
- Previous teasers revealed a compact off-road vehicle with tough styling and a boxy shape.
- The Land Cruiser FJ may share its ladder frame underpinnings with the Hilux Champ.
FJ comes with Compact Size, Tough Style
The single teaser image, which inspired our speculative rendering, hints at a boxy SUV that takes its design cues from the 2021 Toyota Compact Cruiser EV concept. While it retains its upright stance and modern LED accents, the production model looks slightly larger, with ample ground clearance, beefy tires, and a flat tailgate with a spare wheel attached.
The Land Cruiser FJ is likely to be a bit bigger than the Corolla Cross but maybe smaller than the RAV4. With a wheelbase of 2,750 mm (108.3 in), initial projections indicate lengths of about 4,500 mm (177.2 in), widths of 1,830 mm (72 in), and heights of 1,850 mm (72.8 in).
If these numbers are true, the Land Cruiser FJ will be significantly smaller than the North American Land Cruiser which is 4,925 mm (193.9 inches) long, but larger than the Ford Bronco Sport which is 4,387 mm (172.7 inches) long.
The FJ frame is what we expected
Apart from the remarkable example of the Suzuki Jimny, most small and compact SUVs have changed to unibody construction. Fortunately for those looking for adventure, this doesn’t seem to apply to the Land Cruiser FJ, which is thought to have a ladder frame chassis.
The little off-road car is projected to use the same IMV 0 architecture as the Toyota Hilux Champ/Ranga pickup truck rather than the TNGA-F platform seen in the larger and more costly 250 and 300 Series Land Cruisers.
This choice lets Toyota provide the model at a more reasonable cost while preserving the tough Land Cruiser legacy. Of course, the SUV will have superior noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) characteristics and smoother driving dynamics than the Hilux Champ, stressing affordability in developing countries.
Moreover, standard will probably be a 4WD system with a Torsen limited-slip differential, which will let it handle uneven terrain together with high ground clearance and sticky tires.
FJ with Expected Size
The Land Cruiser FJ is expected to be slightly larger than the Corolla Cross but smaller than the RAV4, with projected dimensions:
- Length: ~4,500 mm (177.2 inches)
- Width: ~1,830 mm (72 inches)
- Height: ~1,850 mm (72.8 inches)
- Wheelbase: ~2,750 mm (108.3 inches)
In comparison, the size will be much smaller than the North American Land Cruiser (4,925 mm / 193,9 inches) but larger than the Ford Bronco Sport (4,387 mm / 172,7 inches).
FJ Drive System
There’s been a lot of speculation surrounding the engine choices for the upcoming Land Cruiser FJ (or whatever Toyota calls it). Initial reports suggest that the car could come with both internal combustion engines and a hybrid, with the possibility of a fully electric version being added to the lineup later.
However, more recent reports claim that Toyota has scrapped plans for a hybrid engine in favor of a traditional petrol engine. However, this information should be treated with skepticism, as engine options may vary by region.
Given market trends, Toyota will likely offer a hybrid version outside Japan, especially in North America and Europe, where demand for fuel efficiency and lower emissions remains high.
One of the most likely options to power the Land Cruiser FJ is a 2.7-liter four-cylinder 2TR-FE naturally aspirated petrol engine. This engine has been used on the Thai-spec Hilux Champ with regards to mechanics, as well as on the EU and JDM-spec versions of the Land Cruiser Prado (250 Series).
However, this engine may only be available in markets like Japan and other Asian regions where the Hilux Champ is sold.
In this region, the engine produces 161 hp (120 kW / 163 PS) and 246 Nm (181 lb-ft) of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and a capable 4WD system. While this power should be sufficient for compact off-road vehicles in many markets, it may not meet the demands of more power-hungry North American buyers. By comparison, the Ford Bronco Sport offers a base 181 hp 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine and an optional 245 hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
That said, Toyota has a variety of engines available, including options found in the Corolla Cross, RAV4, and even the Prius for better hybrid power, if it chooses to go that route.
In North America, the Corolla Cross offers a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine rated at 169 hp, the RAV4 can be had with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 203 hp, and the new Prius comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid petrol engine that produces 194 hp, along with a plug-in hybrid variant rated at 220 hp.
One strong competitor is the 2.7-litre four-cylinder 2TR-FE petrol engine, which is already found in the Thailand-spec Hilux Champ and some Land Cruiser Prado models. In these markets, this machine delivers:
- 161hp (120 kW / 163 PS)
- Torsi 246 Nm (181 lb-ft)
- 6-speed automatic transmission with 4WD
However, the power output may not meet North American expectations, where competitors such as the Ford Bronco Sport offer up to 245 hp. Toyota has other engine options, including:
- 2.0L inline-four engine (169 hp) from the Corolla Cross
- 2.5L (203 hp) four-cylinder engine from the RAV4
- 2.0L hybrid engine (194 hp) from Prius
Considering market trends, hybrid powertrains are likely to arrive in North America and Europe.
Safety
The Land Cruiser 300 has been modified with enhanced collision damage reducing braking function to follow the newest rules in Japan, hence adding pre-collision safety for cyclists. This vehicle has enhanced cyber security as well as event data recorders.
From a mechanical standpoint, nothing has changed under the hood. Still powered by a non-electric 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol engine and a 3.3-litre V6 diesel engine, the Land Cruiser 300 is fully four-wheel driven and has a 10-speed automated gearbox. Toyota, on the other hand, points out that the diesel engine now meets Japan’s newest pollution criteria.
Competitor
We’ve already mentioned the new Toyota 4Runner, which is a local competitor. This car is available in a more affordable version and offers a small third row of seats. In that case, this car is a better choice for families.
Other alternatives are the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco, both of which are very capable off-road but lack the on-road refinement of the Land Cruiser. The Land Rover Defender is another advanced off-road SUV that also has a lot of fans. If you want the Land Cruiser’s off-road capability in a more luxurious package, check out the related Lexus GX.
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser Price
Prices for the updated Land Cruiser 300 start at ¥5,252,500 (around $35,100) for the entry-level GX petrol trim, rising to ¥8,136,800 (around $54,400) for the diesel-powered GR Sport variant. Compared with the previous model, prices have risen between ¥130,900 and ¥152,500 ($875 to $1,020), depending on trim.
However, price won’t be much of an issue for new buyers—at least not yet. Demand for the Land Cruiser 300 in Japan has always been greater than available supply, resulting in years-long waiting lists.
To avoid overpromising, Toyota has suspended new orders until it can deliver vehicles to customers who have submitted claims. The company issued an official apology, posted on its website:
“Thank you for considering purchasing our vehicle. The Land Cruiser ‘300’ has undergone several enhancements to comply with regulations. We have suspended orders to prioritize vehicle production for customers who continue to order and wait for delivery. We understand that many customers in Japan are waiting for their vehicles to be delivered, and we will do our best to maximize production and deliver these vehicles as quickly as possible. We apologize for any ongoing inconvenience, and appreciate your understanding.”
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ Baby Price
Originally expected to be in late 2024, the launch of the Land Cruiser FJ has been delayed. Reports now suggest a fall 2025 launch in Japan, followed by a global rollout.
In Japan, the price is estimated at between ¥4-4.5 million ($26,600-$30,000 USD) . For comparison:
- Land Cruiser Series 70: ¥4.8 million ($32,000)
- Land Cruiser Series 250: ¥5.2 million ($34,700)
- Land Cruiser 300 Series: ¥5.1 million ($34,000)
Pricing in North America is expected to start around $35,000 , with higher trims potentially topping $45,000 —positioning it well below the 2025 Land Cruiser’s starting price of $56,450 .
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser EV Price
Meanwhile, for the EV model, prices for the 2026 Toyota Compact Cruiser are expected to start around $35,000 and go up to $45,000 depending on trim and options.
| Models | Price MSRP |
| LE | $35,000 (est) |
| XLE | $40,000 (est) |
| Limited | $45,000 (est) |
We expect prices for the 2026 Compact Cruiser EV to start around $35,000. We’ll know more about the Compact Cruiser EV’s trim levels and pricing as the on-sale date gets closer.
- Estimated Price: Starting around $59,000
2026 Toyota Land Cruiser Release Date
It was initially hoped that the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ would debut in late 2024, but that obviously didn’t happen. Over the past year, the automotive landscape has changed dramatically, with manufacturers shelving projects and refocusing on petrol engines and hybrids.
This change in strategy is largely a response to evolving market demands and increasing uncertainty due to potential trade conflicts and regulatory changes.
While there has been no official confirmation regarding the launch of the Land Cruiser FJ, the latest report from Best Car Japan now suggests its launch has been delayed from autumn this year to early 2026, with a global launch to follow soon after.
As for pricing, recent reports suggest that the Land Cruiser FJ could be priced between ¥4-4.5 million in its domestic market, which equates to around $26,600-$30,000 at current exchange rates. By comparison, the 70 Series Land Cruiser starts at ¥4.8 million ($32,000), the 250 Series starts at ¥5.2 million ($34,700), and the 300 Series starts at ¥5.1 million ($34,000) in Japan.
Pricing will of course vary by market, but depending on where it’s made, North American models are expected to start at around $35,000 and could top the $45,000 mark for the high-end version. This would put it well below the 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser’s starting price in the United States of $56,450.
- Release Date: Fall 2025
Verdict
With its rugged design, certainly 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser body frame construction, and hybrid power potential, the Land Cruiser FJ looks set to be an interesting addition to Toyota’s lineup of off-road vehicles. The 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser is a smart choice for a mid-sized SUV that can help you explore nature. This car is also more comfortable and easier to use for daily driving than some rival SUVs.
A difficult-to-access cargo area and less spacious rear seat legroom are its most significant drawbacks. Be sure to stay tuned for the latest information as the launch gets closer. Thanks for reading, we’ll be updating more on the 2026 Land Cruiser soon, so be sure to bookmark our Toyota SUV Models website for the latest comprehensive information.
FAQs: People also ask about the Toyota Land Cruiser 2026
Q: Will there be any changes to the Land Cruiser?
A: Its full-time four-wheel-drive system comes with several off-road-specific features that make it particularly capable on the trail. The only notable change for is the deletion of the First Edition trim.
Q: How much will a Land Cruiser cost?
Starting at $58,150, the Toyota Land Cruiser range-topping Land Cruiser null begins at $62,920. Depending on trim and equipment, Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Pricing now recommends spending $582 to $711 less than MSRP.
Q: Is Toyota making a Mini Land Cruiser?
Indeed, Toyota is working on a smaller Land Cruiser model commonly known as the "mini" or "baby" Land Cruiser under the moniker "FJ". With a worldwide rollout after, including North America, it's anticipated to launch in the autumn of 2025. Designed as a small, off-road competent SUV, this new model may share ladder-frame foundations with the Hilux Champ.
