Nearly two years ago, Toyota released a teaser of its upcoming small off-road SUV, which is likely to be called the Toyota FJ Cruiser. While the previous official image revealed the boxy silhouette of the model, the latest design patent gives us a complete preview of its production-ready design. This will be Toyota’s smallest SUV, and is popular referred to as the “mini Fortuner”.
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What design patent reveals?
The official design patent closely resembles the silhouette teased in 2023. It appears to be the base variant, featuring small wheels, no roof racks and fog lamps. Upfront, it carries a rectangular grille, inverted C-shaped headlamp housings and a massive bumper with black cladding. The rear bumper also has cladding, along with the thick C and D-pillars. The tailgate isn’t visible in the patent image; however, it’s likely to feature a full-size spare wheel.
Toyota’s mini Fortuner is expected to share some design elements with the Compact Cruiser EV concept, and likely to underpin by the modified version of the MIV ladder frame chassis – a derivative of the Fortuner’s platform. Dimensionally, the Toyota FJ Cruiser are likely to as big as the Hilux Champ and Fortuner. This new Toyota small SUV will have a wheelbase of 2,750mm.
Engine Options:
It could be quite early to confirm the powertrain options. However, Toyota’s mini Fortuner is expected to borrow a 2.0L petrol engine from the Hilux Champ and a 2.8L diesel unit from the Fortuner. A 2.7L petrol engine might also be on offer. Select variants are likely to come with a 4WD (four-wheel drive) system.
Debut & Launch Details:
The Toyota FJ Cruiser is expected to make its global debut towards the end of this year or early next year. In global markets, it will go on sale sometime in 2026. The mini Toyota Fortuner could also make its way to India; however, there is no official confirmation on that as of now.
