Proof that Toyota Is Reviving The FJ Cruiser

Toyota is doing some epic things at the moment. From replacing most of its small engines with turbo and/or hybrid powertrains to going back to making sports cars on its own, the Japanese carmaker is back on the enthusiasts’ radar. A recent Instagram post by ToyotaUSA may be giving us more information about upcoming models. "What models would you like to see us bring back?” This was followed by hashtags mentioning the Celica, MR-2, Previa, Starlet, and FJ Cruiser. 

We know the Toyota Celica and MR-2 are coming back with turbo power and all-wheel drive. A new Toyota Starlet is also in the works, and unlike what some markets got, it will not be a rebadged Suzuki Baleno. The mention of a Toyota Previa is odd, as it seems the most unlikely name to return.

In 1997, the minivan was replaced by the Sienna, which is a solid offering in the minivan segment and great at retaining value (like almost all Toyota and Lexus models). That said, some of Sienna's tech features may be a generation behind the competition. Perhaps it is time for a major update, but will it be accompanied by the return of the Previa nameplate?

Here's why a new Toyota FJ Cruiser is definitely happening  

I have been a big advocate of Toyota FJ Cruiser's return and it may be happening around 2026, which is when the revived Toyota Stout pickup truck is also scheduled to debut. One of the 16 Toyota/Lexus concepts introduced back in December 2021 was the retro-futuristic Toyota Compact Cruiser EV Concept, which was clearly inspired by the retro-futuristic FJ Cruiser.

The last FJ Cruiser was a parts-bin special, and judging by the Toyota Land Cruiser ROX Concept by Calty Design Research, exhibited at the 2024 SEMA, the new model would likely utilize a modified version of the J250 platform, underpinning the Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus GX. 

I found another hint at the FJ Cruiser's return at Chizai Watch, which follows all the Japanese trademarks, among which Toyota's trademark of the Land Cruiser FJ. This, pretty much, confirms that like the ROX Concept, the future FJ Cruiser will utilize the J250 platform. The real question is, will it be a turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid or a twin-turbo V-6? 

The SUV segment is seeing a lot of classic trends returning and Toyota is responsible for some of them. The 2024 SEMA shows saw a variety if epic Toyota builds, including the 4Runner TRD Surf. From short-wheelbase SUVs to refreshing decade-old models, the SUV segment may be going back to its roots, and Toyota is partially responsible for some classic SUV trends making a comeback.  

About the author

Dimitar Angelov's automotive interests made him an expert in a wide variety of vehicles. Japanese brands like Toyota are closest to his heart, although performance cars in general are his favorite segment, which is why he is constantly on the lookout for the best deals on the market. Dimitar Angelov's car passion and knack for the written word led him to complete a Master of Arts in Media and Communications, and classic car restoration. Dim is happy to get behind the wheel of any car and share his impressions. You can follow Dimitar on X, Linked-in, Instagram, and Facebook.