Toyota’s Next Land Cruiser Breaks Tradition: A Monocoque SUV Is Coming by 2028

Toyota plans a midsize, lifestyle-focused Land Cruiser based on the SE Concept, targeting global buyers with hybrid and EV powertrains.

A new SUV based on a monocoque is reportedly being developed by Toyota as part of an effort to expand its line of Land Cruisers. This model, which is internally identified as a production version of the Land Cruiser SE Concept first presented at the Japan Mobility Show 2023, is anticipated to take a very different approach than conventional body-on-frame Land Cruisers. The future SUV may be designed as a recreational machine rather than a strictly off-road vehicle.

The monocoque Land Cruiser plans to compete with lifestyle off-roaders and midsize SUVs worldwide by positioning itself in the midsize SUV sector, possibly with a length of 4.4 meters. In addition to this project, Toyota is working on a smaller version of the Land Cruiser FJ, which might be released as early as February 2026.

Toyota's potential future proportions are strongly hinted at by the Land Cruiser SE Concept. With dimensions of 5,150 mm in length, 1,990 mm in width and 1,705 mm in height, the concept had a much sleeker and lower stance than current Land Cruiser versions. It would represent a major aesthetic shift if used for manufacturing.

The new model is expected to line up design, comfort and daily use while maintaining credible all terrain performance, in contrast to the Land Cruiser 300 and LC 250. It is thought that Toyota is aiming to attract customers who wish the Land Cruiser nameplate but are not overly tough. As per current estimates, the SUV may make a worldwide appearance in 2028, solidifying its place in Toyota's lineage beneath the premium LC three hundred.

Three rows of seats are expected, while other markets may have a two row configuration. Toyota is building the SUV on a versatile architecture that can handle many powertrain choices. Both battery electric and hybrid electric configurations are being measured, supporting the brand to offer the model in several international markets.