The upcoming baby Land Cruiser from Toyota is expected to feature a compact SUV footprint and is likely to offer hybrid and PHEV powertrains, with the possibility of an EV version as well
The Land Cruiser nameplate has served Toyota well over the years, garnering a legendary reputation for its durability, off-road prowess, and long-standing presence in diverse global markets. Currently, there are three distinct Land Cruiser models in production: the 300 series, the slightly smaller Prado (which will soon be succeeded by the 250 series, making its way to North America), and the classic 70 Series. But Toyota’s commitment to the Land Cruiser series doesn’t end there.
In addition to the 7-seater Land Cruiser Se electric concept premiering at next week’s Japan Mobility 2023, Toyota had previously hinted at a smaller, off-road-focused vehicle when they revealed the Land Cruiser 250 earlier this year. According to the latest reports, this new addition could potentially hit the market as early as the end of the next year.
What Will It Be Called?
Several details remain to be cleared up, including the name. While there were rumors that it might be called the “Land Hopper” after Toyota secured the trademark, it has since been revealed that this name has been assigned to a three-wheeled electric bike concept. Toyota could potentially revive the iconic “FJ Cruiser” moniker or explore variants like “FC Cruiser.” Another option might involve using the “Compact Cruiser” name previously linked to the EV concept.
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Alternatively, Toyota could choose to continue using alphanumeric names, designating the larger model as the Land Cruiser 300 series, the Prado replacement as the 250 series, and the compact model as the Land Cruiser 50 or 60, among other possibilities.
Regardless of what it’s called, the new model appears to draw inspiration from the Land Cruiser’s off-road capabilities while being built on a smaller platform, similar to the Ford Bronco Sport, which will be one of its prime competitors.
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During the presentation of the 2024 Land Cruiser 250, Toyota shared a teaser image that was somewhat reminiscent of the Compact Cruiser EV concept. It is speculated that the production model will incorporate design elements from both the concept and the recently unveiled 2024 Land Cruiser. This fusion is expected to result in a vehicle featuring a boxy design, rugged bumpers, and protective body cladding, as well as an externally mounted spare tire bolted to the tailgate, closely resembling the illustration we’ve included in this story.
Powertrain Options
Moving our focus to the internals, Japan’s Best Car, citing ‘reliable sources’, reported that it will be offered with both internal-combustion-only and hybrid powertrains. Furthermore, there is talk about the possibility of introducing a pure electric version (BEV) at a later stage.
The precise powertrain options for the SUV have not been officially confirmed, leaving room for additional speculation. Toyota has a variety of engines at its disposal, with potential sources ranging from the Corolla Cross to the larger RAV4 and the Prius for enhanced power. In North America, the latter is available with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid gasoline engine that generates 194 hp, along with a plug-in hybrid variant producing 220 hp, both of which could be suitable candidates. Regardless of powertrain, all-wheel drive (AWD) will be standard across the range.
First Look: The 2024 Land Cruiser Is Worth Getting Excited About
North America’s 2024 Land Cruiser | Photos Mike Gauthier for Carscoops
Outside the engine bay, Best Car’s sources claim that the upcoming model is expected to have a width of around 71 inches (1,800 mm), which is identical to the Toyota Corolla Cross. However, it will stand at a height of 73 inches (1,850 mm), making it eight inches (204 mm) taller than the Corolla Cross. In terms of length, it is estimated to be around 177 inches (4,500 mm). Overall, its footprint should be comparable to that of the Ford Bronco Sport (173″ L x 74″ W x 70-71″ H).
That suggests that despite being smaller than the Land Cruiser, the new vehicle will have real off-road bona fides, and will be capable of clambering over obstacles.
Pricing And Availability
In addition to its smaller size, this “baby” Land Cruiser is anticipated to come at a considerably more budget-friendly price point compared to the 2024 Land Cruiser, which kicks off at around $55,000 in the States. While it was initially reported to begin from around 3.0-3.8 million yen in Japan (equivalent to $20,000 to $25,000 USD at current exchange rates), we believe it’s more reasonable to expect a starting price ranging from $30,000 to $35,000 in North America. Naturally, the new compact model will be available globally, though the available powertrain options may vary by region.
Unfortunately, we’ll have to wait for the full details about the upcoming compact addition to the growing Land Cruiser family. If the reports about Toyota launching a production version towards the end of 2024 are accurate, there’s a chance we might catch a sneak peek at a conceptual version in the months ahead.
Additional reporting credit goes to John Halas. Please note that the illustrations featured in this story are independent and not associated with Toyota.