When it comes to SUVs in India, the Toyota Fortuner has always been a big name. People love it for its bold look, powerful engine, and road presence. But let’s be real — not everyone can afford a Fortuner. So, what if we told you there’s another SUV with Toyota DNA, a retro-modern design, and serious off-road skills — all at a price that could be lighter on your wallet?
Enter the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ. It’s not brand new, but it’s a strong contender for those who want something different, rugged, and full of personality.
Let’s dive in and see why the FJ Cruiser could be your dream SUV if the Fortuner feels out of reach.
Design & Style
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ is all about standing out. It doesn’t look like your regular SUV. Its boxy design, round headlights, and clamshell bonnet scream adventure. It’s inspired by the classic Toyota FJ40 from the 1960s but with a modern twist.
The FJ’s design is bold, fun, and retro. It’s the kind of car that turns heads wherever it goes. Whether you’re in the city or on a dirt trail, this SUV has an attitude of its own. The white roof, contrasting body colors, and chunky bumpers add to its rugged charm.
Inside, the cabin is pretty straightforward. It’s more functional than fancy, with water-resistant seats and easy-to-clean materials — perfect for off-road lovers.
Engine & Performance
Under the hood, the Toyota FJ Cruiser packs a 4.0-liter V6 petrol engine that produces around 270 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque. That’s some serious power for an SUV in this category.
Paired with a 5-speed automatic gearbox and a full-time 4WD system with a locking rear differential, the FJ is made for rough terrains. It handles sand dunes, rocky climbs, and muddy tracks like a pro.
On highways, the engine delivers a strong performance, but it’s not meant for speed freaks. The FJ is more about raw power and durability than quick sprints.
Ride & Handling
The ride quality of the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ is firm but comfortable. It’s built on a ladder-frame chassis, which gives it that tough, go-anywhere ability. However, that also means it may not be as smooth on city roads compared to monocoque SUVs like the Hyundai Tucson or Jeep Compass.
But when it comes to handling rough patches, potholes, or even light trails, the FJ feels right at home. The high ground clearance, approach angles, and water-wading capacity make it ideal for adventurers.
Turning radius is a bit wide, and the visibility at the back isn’t perfect due to the thick pillars, but that’s something you’ll get used to over time.
Features & Tech
Let’s be honest — the FJ Cruiser is not loaded with flashy tech like newer SUVs. But it still gets the basics right.
Key features include:
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Touchscreen infotainment system (on newer variants)
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Rear parking sensors and camera
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Cruise control
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Keyless entry
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Manual AC
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Basic driver-assist features
It lacks Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, or a digital instrument cluster, but that’s not really the point of this SUV. It’s made for tough conditions, not urban luxury.
FJ Cruiser vs Fortuner vs Others: Overview Table
| Feature | Toyota FJ Cruiser | Toyota Fortuner | Mahindra Scorpio-N |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0L V6 Petrol | 2.7L Petrol / 2.8L Diesel | 2.0L Petrol / 2.2L Diesel |
| Power Output | 270 hp / 380 Nm | 201 hp / 500 Nm (Diesel) | Up to 172 hp / 400 Nm |
| Drive Type | Full-time 4WD | RWD / 4WD | RWD / 4WD |
| Mileage (Approx) | 7-8 km/l | 9-13 km/l | 14-16 km/l |
| Price (INR) | ₹25–35 Lakhs (used market) | ₹33–50 Lakhs (new) | ₹13–25 Lakhs |
| Seating Capacity | 5-seater | 7-seater | 7-seater |
| Off-road Capability | Excellent | Very Good | Decent |
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
This is where the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ takes a small hit. With a large petrol engine, don’t expect it to be fuel-efficient. In real-world conditions, the FJ gives around 7–8 km/l in the city and 9–10 km/l on highways — if you’re gentle on the throttle.
That’s less than the Fortuner’s diesel variants or even newer petrol SUVs. So if mileage is your top priority, the FJ might not be for you.
But if you want a powerful off-roader and don’t mind the fuel bills, it’s worth it.
Price & Variants
The Toyota FJ Cruiser was never officially sold in India. However, it has become quite popular in the used car market due to its global reputation and iconic design.
You can find good-condition FJ Cruisers (imported from the Middle East or the US) for ₹25–35 lakhs, depending on the model year, condition, and modifications.
Keep in mind that these are CBU imports, so parts and service can be a bit more expensive and limited, especially in smaller cities.
Still, it’s a unique offering at that price point — more affordable than a new Fortuner, yet bold enough to stand on its own.