Get ready to be excited, car enthusiasts! The pint-sized Toyota LandCruiser FJ, a compact tribute to the legendary FJ40-generation of the 1960s to 1980s, might finally have a chance to hit Australian roads after all. But here’s where it gets controversial—despite its iconic lineage, this mini LandCruiser was initially ruled out for Australia due to its 2.7-litre petrol engine failing to meet the country’s strict emissions regulations. So, what’s changed? Well, according to the reliable Japanese publication Best Car, Toyota is reportedly swapping in a familiar 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine—the same one powering the HiLux and Prado in Australia—complete with mild-hybrid assistance. And this is the part most people miss: this upgrade could significantly boost its performance, jumping from 120kW and 246Nm to a robust 150kW and 500Nm, while potentially aligning with emissions standards.
However, it’s not all smooth sailing. The LandCruiser FJ’s journey eerily mirrors that of the Prado-based FJ Cruiser from the 2000s, which struggled due to its petrol-only option and outdated transmission. Here’s the kicker: even if the new FJ gets the green light, Best Car suggests it might not enter production until 2029—a time when Australia’s emissions standards will be even stricter. Under the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), vehicles exceeding CO2 limits face hefty fines, with the threshold dropping from 180g/km in 2026 to just 110g/km by 2029. For context, even the lightest Toyota HiLux 4×4 emits 180g/km, raising questions about the FJ’s feasibility.
While the 2.8-litre engine could become more powerful by 2029, it’s unclear if it’ll also become cleaner. An AdBlue system might be necessary to meet Euro 6d regulations, similar to the Prado and upcoming LandCruiser 70 Series. But here’s the real question: Is Toyota willing to invest in these upgrades for a vehicle that might still struggle to meet future standards? And if they do, will Australian buyers embrace a smaller, diesel-powered LandCruiser?
Built on Toyota’s IMV platform (shared with the HiLux and Fortuner), the LandCruiser FJ is compact yet spacious, with a 2580mm wheelbase—270mm shorter than the Prado but larger than the Suzuki Jimny XL in overall dimensions. Interestingly, despite not being sold in Australia, Toyota offers Aussie-designed accessories for it overseas, including ARB bash plates, round headlights, and a snorkel. So, what do you think? Is the LandCruiser FJ worth the wait, or is Toyota chasing a dream that might never align with Australia’s evolving market? Let us know in the comments—this debate is far from over!
