Toyota has something fun up its sleeve. After securing the “Land Hopper” moniker, which we all now know ended up being used for an electric three-wheeler concept, the automaker has now filed a trademark for the “Land Cruiser FJ” name in Japan hinting at a new model.
Although the specific application of the name at Japan’s patent office remains uncertain, what we do know is that Toyota is actively developing a new compact SUV to complement its latest full-sized Land Cruisers, including the 250 and the 300 series.
At the launch of the Land Cruiser 250 Series, a contemporary off-roader infused with retro elements that is destined for several markets including the USA, Canada and Europe, Toyota dropped a hint about a smaller vehicle, accompanied by a mysterious teaser photo. While Toyota has yet to officially disclose any specifics about this compact SUV, reports suggest that it will be a genuine off-roader, distinguishing itself from the typical crossover models
Read: Everything We Know About Toyota’s Upcoming Compact Land Cruiser
The absence of specific details makes it uncertain whether the trademark — which was first noticed by readers of the Land Cruiser Forum — will be applied to the smaller SUV. If it does, it would serve as a tribute to the FJ Cruiser, which recently concluded its global production, several years after departing from the North American market in 2014. That might explain why the silhouette teased by Toyota earlier this year bears some resemblance to the outgoing SUV.
While the upcoming model may take inspiration from the FJ Cruiser in its name and concept, it’s expected to be smaller in size. Reports from Japan have suggested that the new model will share a footprint similar to that of the Toyota Corolla Cross, but with significantly more off-road-oriented proportions and features. It’s unclear which platform architecture it will use, and whether it will be a body-on-frame design (fingers crossed) or if Toyota will opt for a unibody construction, a choice that may not sit well with die-hard enthusiasts of the nameplate.
More: Toyota Land Cruiser Se EV And Land Hopper Look Nothing Like The Land Cruisers You Know
In terms of engines, Toyota has a variety of options at its disposal, with potential sources including the Corolla Cross, the larger RAV4, and the Prius for a more advanced hybrid powertrain. However, considering the ever-evolving nature of the automotive industry, there’s also the possibility that it might eventually adopt a fully electric powertrain, aligning with Toyota’s commitment to staying in step with changing trends.
Regardless of whether it adopts the “Land Cruiser FJ” moniker or not, this compact addition to the ever-growing Land Cruiser lineage certainly has our attention as it gears up for a potential showdown with popular contenders like the Ford Bronco Sport.
Note: The renders in this story are independent and have no official connection to Toyota
