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Last August, during the much-anticipated debut of the 2024 Land Cruiser, Toyota dropped a tantalizing hint: the silhouette of another rugged off-roader, reminiscent of the beloved FJ Cruiser. Could this be the long-awaited return of the iconic FJ, or perhaps a new compact off-road SUV bearing the Cruiser name? Since then, Toyota has remained tight-lipped, but speculation continues to swirl, fuelled by intriguing clues and rumours.
An unexpected trademark filing and some astute reading between the lines suggest that Toyota may be poised to expand its Land Cruiser brand, following a strategy similar to the successful evolution of the Crown line. However, concrete details are scarce, and conflicting reports abound regarding the nature of this potential vehicle.
Nevertheless, there's a palpable sense of anticipation surrounding the prospect of a new FJ Cruiser or a comparable compact off-roader entering the market in the near future. Here's what we know so far:
The Legacy of the Toyota FJ Cruiser:
The FJ Cruiser, produced by Toyota in the US from 2007 to 2014, captured hearts with its retro styling and formidable off-road capabilities. Equipped with a robust 4.0-liter V-6 engine, boasting up to 260 horsepower, and featuring Toyota's advanced A-Trac traction control system, the FJ Cruiser proved itself as a worthy competitor to the legendary Jeep Wrangler. Today, the FJ enjoys cult status among enthusiasts, with rumours of its revival circulating for years.
What's in a Name?
While the possibility of the new off-roader adopting the "FJ Cruiser" moniker remains uncertain, recent trademark filings hint at the potential resurrection of the FJ name. Alternatively, Toyota may opt for a fresh approach, leveraging the Cruiser brand in innovative ways. Toyota's Chief Branding Officer's remarks about making the Cruiser more accessible suggest that affordability and global relevance will be key considerations.
Under the Hood:
Speculation regarding the powertrain of the prospective FJ revival includes gasoline and hybrid options, with the potential for a future electric variant. Reports suggest that the turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, already in use in the Land Cruiser and Tacoma, could be a frontrunner for the new model.
Design and Platform:
Teaser images hint at a compact, boxy design reminiscent of the Compact Cruiser EV concept. While details remain scarce, it's speculated that the new FJ could share platforms with existing Toyota models, such as the TNGA-F architecture or even the platform of Toyota's budget-friendly pickup, the Hilux Champ.
Affordability and Accessibility:
With Toyota's commitment to making the Land Cruiser brand more accessible, pricing for the new FJ or its equivalent is expected to be considerably lower than its larger counterparts. The starting price of the 2024 Land Cruiser at $57,000 leaves ample room for a more affordable offering in the lineup.
Anticipating the Future:
Rumours suggest that production of the new model could commence as early as November, indicating a potentially imminent debut. However, without official confirmation from Toyota, enthusiasts are left eagerly awaiting further details to ascertain the fate of the shadowy teaser glimpsed last August.
As excitement builds and speculation abounds, the potential revival of the FJ Cruiser or its successor promises to reignite the spirit of adventure for off-road enthusiasts worldwide. Stay tuned as we await further developments from Toyota and dare to dream of the rugged journeys that lie ahead.
Estimated pricing in USD (ZAR):
- 2024 Land Cruiser: $57,000 (ZAR 849,700)
(Note: ZAR values are based on current exchange rates and are subject to change.)