Toyota has acquired the trademark rights for ‘Land Cruiser FJ’ in Japan. Carscoops believes that the name may be used for a new model in the Land Cruiser family, which will slot in under the current LC 250 and be the brand’s smallest SUV in history.
The vehicle will likely be inspired by the Compact Cruiser EV Concept shown in the gallery and the video below. It will probably be comparable to the Corolla Cross in size while benefitting from a rugged body kit and certain off-road-friendly design features.
Will it be a full-fledged SUV, though? One of the theories currently discussed in the media holds that Toyota may want to release a body-on-frame SUV to compete with the likes of the Suzuki Jimny. Another theory says that the new Cruiser FJ will likely make do with the common unibody design and compete against the Ford Bronco Sport in the crossover market.
An electric powertrain option looks likely in either case, given Toyota’s dedication to expanding its EV lineup. At this year’s Japan Mobility Show, the company unveiled a whole range of battery-powered concepts, including multiple crossovers and a pickup truck.
As for the Compact Cruiser EV Concept shown below, the corporation previewed it during the reveal of the new Prado. Reuters reported that the car was already in development in September this year, quoting sources saying that the premiere was planned in India.
