Toyota’s newest Land Cruiser has touched down in South Africa, and it is already one of the most talked about new arrivals in the brand’s 2026 line-up.
Compact, confident and considerably easier on the wallet than its larger Land Cruiser relatives, the FJ is not just bringing along a fresh new look but a vehicle that is made for a wider range of customers.
If the Land Cruiser is your dream car, the FJ might just be the one you’ve been waiting for.
Design and Dimensions
Sized between the RAV4 and the smaller Urban Cruiser, the new FJ measures 4 575mm in length, 1 855mm in width and rides on a 2 580mm wheelbase.
Its squared-off proportions and upright stance borrow heavily from the larger Land Cruiser Prado, while a handful of details, like the protruding rear taillights and the full-size spare wheel mounted on a side-opening tailgate, pay tribute to the much-loved FJ Cruiser of years past.
Toyota is careful to point out that the new FJ is not a direct successor to that model, though the family resemblance is impossible to miss.
GX and VX, the Two Grades to Choose From
Buyers can choose between two grades.
The entry-level GX rides on 17-inch wheels and comes with LED headlamps, an eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital instrument cluster and seven airbags as standard.
Stepping up to the VX brings 18-inch alloys, artificial leather seating, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a longer list of driver assistance features including adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, blind spot monitoring and a full surround view camera system.
Life Inside the Cabin
Settle into either grade and the cabin is something made for comfort rather than just for functionality.
The driving position is generously adjustable, the seats are well shaped and padded knee pads built into the doors and centre console add a thoughtful touch for rougher roads.
Road and wind noise are kept impressively well mannered for a vehicle of this shape, only becoming noticeable once speeds climb past 135km/h.
Performance and Off-Road Capability
Power comes from a familiar 2.7 litre four-cylinder petrol engine, prized for its simplicity and longevity, paired with a smooth six-speed automatic gearbox.
It is not a quick vehicle, and it does enjoy a drink, with real-world fuel consumption running well above Toyota’s claimed figure.
What it lacks in restraint at the pumps, however, it more than makes up for with ability once the tar runs out.
A low range transfer case, rear differential lock, hill start assist and a refined downhill assist control all work together to make the FJ a properly capable companion on rougher terrain, helped along by 245mm of ground clearance and generous approach and departure angles.
Making It Your Own
For those who like to personalise their vehicles, Toyota has partnered with ARB to bring a range of factory-fitted accessories to market from launch, including a snorkel, roof rack, skid plates and underbody protection, allowing each FJ to be tailored to the way its owner actually uses it.
Pricing, Warranty and A Few Last Thoughts
Pricing starts at R714 000 for the GX and R761 400 for the VX, with both grades including a nine-service, 90 000km service plan and a three-year, 100 000km warranty.
Whether the Land Cruiser FJ proves itself as a properly worthy companion for South African roads and trails will become clearer once more owners get behind the wheel, but the early signs from its Cape Town launch suggest Toyota has found a real sweet spot between attainability and capability.
If you would like to see the new FJ in person, your nearest Toyota dealership will be happy to arrange a closer look and a test drive.
Get a Quote
Venture 4×4 sells a wide range of 4×4 accessories, suitable for a variety of 4×4 vehicles, including Toyota. You can have a look at our products online, or you can visit our shop in Nelspruit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ cost in South Africa?
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ is priced from R714,000 for the GX grade and R761,400 for the VX grade, with both prices including a nine service, 90,000km service plan and a three year, 100,000km warranty.
What engine powers the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ?
The Land Cruiser FJ is currently fitted with a 2.7 litre four cylinder petrol engine producing 122kW and 245Nm, paired with a six speed automatic gearbox. No diesel option has been confirmed yet.
Is the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ good for off-road driving?
Yes. The FJ comes with a low range transfer case, a rear differential lock, hill start assist and 245mm of ground clearance, making it a genuinely capable off-roader straight from the factory.
What is the difference between the GX and VX Land Cruiser FJ?
The GX is the entry level grade with 17 inch wheels and fabric seating, while the VX adds 18 inch alloys, artificial leather upholstery and additional driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control and a 360 degree camera system.
Will Toyota release a diesel version of the Land Cruiser FJ?
Toyota has not confirmed a diesel engine for the Land Cruiser FJ, though the brand’s 2.4 litre and 2.8 litre GD6 diesel units used in the Hilux and Fortuner make this a likely possibility for the future.