Toyota dropped jaws at the Japan Mobility Show last week with the 2026 Mini Land Cruiser FJ, a pint-sized powerhouse that brings back the spirit of the old FJ Cruiser. This compact SUV packs serious off-road chops into a size that slips easy through city traffic. Folks who love adventure but hate big bills will dig how it mixes tough looks with smart tech and a price that won’t break the bank. It’s Toyota’s way of saying you don’t need a giant rig to conquer trails or haul the family.
First Look at the Retro Tough Guy
The Mini Land Cruiser FJ nails that classic boxy vibe with round LED headlights, a beefy front grille, and flared wheel arches that scream ready for dirt. It’s shorter than the full Land Cruiser, about 170 inches long, so parking’s a breeze, but it still sits high with 8.7 inches of ground clearance. The tailgate swings out with a spare tire mounted on it, just like the old days, and you can pick colors from olive green to bright white. Inside, it seats five comfy, with cloth or leather seats that wipe clean after muddy hikes.
Power That Handles It All
Under the hood, a 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder spits out 280 horses, hooked to an eight-speed auto that shifts smooth. You get standard four-wheel drive with low-range gearing for steep climbs, and it tows up to 3,500 pounds for your boat or trailer. A diesel option clocks 260 horses for better torque on long hauls, and whispers say a hybrid version might join later for extra zip without guzzling gas. It hits 60 mph in around 7 seconds, quick for something this rugged.
Cozy Inside with Smart Gadgets
Climb in and feel the premium touch: soft dash materials, a big 10-inch touchscreen for maps and tunes, plus wireless Apple CarPlay so your phone’s always ready. Heated seats and a sunroof make cold mornings bearable, and vents hit every row. Safety’s on point with auto braking, lane keep, and blind-spot alerts that watch your back on busy roads. Add wireless charging and a JBL sound system, and it’s like your living room on wheels, minus the couch.
Built Tough for Trails and Towns
This rig’s no city softie. It rides on a ladder frame like Toyota’s workhorses, with skid plates to guard the underbelly from rocks. Locking diffs and hill descent control let you crawl over boulders without sweat, and the suspension soaks up ruts while keeping highway rides quiet. It’s perfect for weekend warriors who swap soccer runs for backcountry camps.
Price Tag and Road Stats
Dealers will start selling in spring 2026, with base models around 30 grand, topping out near 35 for loaded ones. That’s a steal compared to pricier rivals, and Toyota’s warranty keeps repair costs low.
| Trim Level | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| Base | $30,000 |
| Adventure | $32,500 |
| Premium | $35,000 |
Fuel numbers look solid for the power. The turbo gas gets 26 in town and 30 on highways, while diesel pushes 28 combined. Hybrid could hit 35 if it lands.
| Engine Type | City MPG | Highway MPG |
|---|---|---|
| Turbo Gas | 26 | 30 |
| Diesel | 24 | 32 |
| Hybrid (est) | 32 | 35 |
The 2026 Mini Land Cruiser FJ proves you can get big fun in a small package. It’s Toyota tough, easy on the wallet, and ready for whatever road you pick. If off-roading calls your name without the hassle, this SUV’s your next ride.