Japan Mobility Show 2025: Check Out How the Design Of The Baby Toyota Land Cruiser FJ Prototype Compares To The Flagship Land Cruiser 300

Toyota’s Land Cruiser lineup has always been associated with size, capability, and toughness. Now, the carmaker is taking a slightly different approach with the Land Cruiser FJ Prototype, a smaller, retro-inspired model, showcased at the Japan Mobility Show 2025, that will be offered below the Prado as well as the flagship Land Cruiser 300.

Though both the FJ Prototype and the LC 300 carry forward Toyota’s off-road heritage, their design approaches differ significantly. Let’s take a closer look at how each SUV’s design compares in this report.

Toyota Land Cruiser FJ Prototype vs Land Cruiser LC 300: Exterior Design

Front

The FJ Prototype’s front design gives off an old-school look. Its squared stance, rectangular headlamps (with optional circular ones), and bold ‘Toyota’ motif across the grille bring back the charm of classic off-roaders. The chunky segmented bumper not only looks rugged but also serves a practical purpose, as individual parts can be replaced if damaged. 

In contrast, the Land Cruiser 300 looks every bit the flagship it is, modern, commanding, and polished. It features a large chrome-slatted grille flanked by sleek LED headlamps with integrated washers. The sculpted bonnet and oversized proportions give it a powerful presence, clearly setting it apart from the compact Land Cruiser FJ.

Side Profile

From the side, the FJ Prototype carries a compact yet muscular stance. The flared fenders, thick cladding, and black alloy wheels showcase its adventurous character. The wheels pushed to the corners give it a balanced appearance, while the thick C-pillar is a deliberate throwback to the FJ Cruiser.

The Land Cruiser 300, meanwhile, exudes size and sophistication. Its longer wheelbase, upright silhouette, and clean shoulder line emphasise road presence over agility. The GR-S variant takes things up a notch with blacked-out alloy wheels, sportier accents, and red GR branding, giving it a more aggressive character compared to the simplicity of the FJ.

Rear Profile

At the back, the FJ Prototype maintains its rugged and functional theme. The tailgate-mounted spare wheel is a touch that immediately connects it to vintage 4x4s, while the vertical LED tail lamps and segmented bumper reinforce its utilitarian charm. The blacked-out square portion on the tailgate adds a visual link to the retro design language seen up front.

The Land Cruiser 300, on the other hand, keeps things premium and assertive. The sleek LED tail lamps blend neatly into the tailgate, while the upright stance and clean surfaces emphasise width and stability. There’s no spare wheel on display here; everything feels more refined, in line with its flagship status.

Toyota Land Cruiser FJ Prototype vs Land Cruiser LC 300: Cabin Layout

Inside, the Land Cruiser FJ Prototype keeps things simple yet modern. Its flat, easy-to-clean dashboard with an all-black theme prioritises practicality. The digital instrument cluster and large touchscreen infotainment system bring it up to date, while elements like the 4x4 dial and physical AC controls borrowed from other Toyota models make it feel familiar.

Step into the Land Cruiser 300, and the contrast is immediate. The dashboard design is far more premium, featuring soft-touch materials, leather upholstery, and a large floating infotainment display. However, with the LC 300, Toyota has retained the chunky button setup.

While the Land Cruiser FJ Prototype aims to democratise the Land Cruiser badge within a smaller package, the Land Cruiser 300 continues to hold Toyota's flagship off-roader. While both carry Toyota’s off-road DNA, the FJ Prototype draws from classic design elements, whereas the Land Cruiser 300 emphasises a contemporary, dominant presence.

Do let us know in the comments if you liked the design of the Land Cruiser FJ and how it compares to its older sibling.