Toyota may reconsider bringing its smaller LandCruiser model – often dubbed the “baby FJ” – to Australia if it receives a more modern diesel engine. The key hurdle preventing the vehicle’s release has been its outdated 2.7-liter petrol engine, which fails to meet current Australian emissions standards.
Emissions Regulations Blocked Initial Launch
Last year, Toyota Australia executives acknowledged the vehicle’s appeal but stated the older petrol engine wouldn’t pass Euro 6 emissions tests. Sean Hanley, VP of sales and marketing, emphasized that stricter regulations are making older powertrains incompatible with the Australian market.
HiLux Diesel as a Potential Solution
According to reports from Japanese automotive publication Best Car Web, Toyota plans to fit the “baby FJ” with the 2.8-liter ‘1GD-FTV’ turbo-diesel engine by 2029. This is the same engine currently used in the Australian HiLux and LandCruiser Prado. The diesel produces 150kW and 500Nm of torque, a significant improvement over the petrol version’s 120kW and 246Nm.
Shared Platform and Manufacturing
Both the LandCruiser FJ and the Australian-market HiLux are built in Thailand using Toyota’s IMV platform, which dates back to 2004. The platform is also used in the HiLux Champ, a more basic version of the ute designed for Southeast Asian markets. While the HiLux Champ is available with a smaller diesel engine, Toyota has ruled out bringing that model to Australia.
Toyota Australia’s Position Remains Cautious
Despite these developments, Toyota Australia maintains a reserved stance. The company has officially stated it has no current plans to introduce the LandCruiser FJ, but the possibility of a diesel-powered model reopening the door for an Australian launch is now more realistic.
The shift to a diesel engine could make the compact LandCruiser a viable option for Australian buyers, especially given its appeal and the established LandCruiser brand recognition. However, confirmation from Toyota Australia remains pending.
