\"Toyota Land Cruiser FJ to be released within the year: Built on the Hilux platform, smaller in size than the Corolla Cross.\"

Following earlier reports that Toyota is developing a small hardcore off-road SUV with the codename 500D, recent leaks from Japanese media suggest that this vehicle will be named the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ. The new car is expected to be officially released within the year, based on the same platform as the Hilux, and will offer both gasoline and diesel engine options. It is speculated to rival or target the recently popular GWM Tank 300.


 

As the compact hardcore off-road SUV segment becomes increasingly popular in the market, there were reports as early as last year that Toyota also plans to follow suit and introduce a vehicle in this category to join the competition. According to the latest renderings released by Japanese media, this all-new compact hardcore off-road SUV is expected to adopt a somewhat retro design style in its exterior appearance, along with the essential square-shaped styling typical of off-road vehicles. Additionally, it can be seen that the body is surrounded by a large amount of black anti-scratch material, fully demonstrating the ruggedness of an off-road vehicle and providing a sense of security.

The estimated dimensions of this vehicle are expected to be 4,410 mm in length, 1,855 mm in width, and 1,870 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,580 mm. These dimensions make it smaller than both the Corolla Cross and the Yaris Cross, making it suitable for driving in congested urban areas. Furthermore, if encountered in cities prone to flooding (such as Kuala Lumpur), this vehicle's ground clearance will also come in handy.

 

Additionally, according to Japanese media speculation, this new small hardcore off-road SUV will be based on the same platform as the current Hilux, rather than utilizing the TNGA GA-F platform found in models like the Land Cruiser and Tundra. In terms of powertrain, it is expected to primarily offer gasoline and diesel engine options. The gasoline engine is anticipated to feature a 2.7-liter turbocharged engine (163 Hp + 245 Nm), while the diesel engine may be the same 2.8-liter turbocharged diesel engine found in the Hilux (221 Hp + 550 Nm). Furthermore, to comply with emission regulations and reduce fuel consumption, the new vehicle may also incorporate a mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) system.

Finally, it is reported that this vehicle will have its global debut within the year, with a focus on the Asia-Pacific market. Japanese media estimates suggest that the starting price for the new car could be around 3,600,000 Japanese Yen (approximately RM 114,524). Its competitors are likely to target the GWM Tank 300, which has gained significant popularity in recent years and is also set to enter the Malaysian market soon.