Toyota is preparing to expand its SUV portfolio with the introduction of the Land Cruiser FJ, a rugged mid-size SUV expected to launch globally in the second quarter of next year and likely to arrive in India soon after. Positioned below the Fortuner in Toyota’s lineup, the Land Cruiser FJ aims to cater to buyers seeking an off-road capable yet more affordable alternative within Toyota’s legendary SUV family.

Platform and Design Philosophy

Built on Toyota’s proven IMV 0 ladder-frame platform, which also underpins the Hilux Champ overseas, the Land Cruiser FJ embraces robust construction ideal for off-road adventures and rough terrains. Patent sketches reveal a boxy, retro-inspired design paying homage to classic Land Cruiser generations, featuring:

• An upright nose with a bold grille
• Chunky wheel arches emphasizing muscularity
• A slab-sided roofline contributing to a vintage-esque silhouette
• Squared headlamps with C-shaped daytime running lights (DRLs)
• Block-style tail lamps flanked by thick cladding for added toughness

The Land Cruiser FJ’s styling clearly underscores its identity as an SUV rooted in rugged heritage but equipped for contemporary demands.

Engine Options and Drivetrain

Toyota is reportedly developing an extensive powertrain range to cater to global markets while meeting local demands:

• Entry-level 1.5-litre diesel engine
• 2.8-litre GD mild-hybrid diesel with a 48V setup, already employed in Toyota’s other ladder-frame SUVs, providing robust performance and improved efficiency
• Petrol engines including probable 2.0-litre and 2.7-litre four-cylinder units, expanding fuel choice for different markets

Adding to its off-roading prowess, the Land Cruiser FJ is expected to feature a permanent four-wheel-drive system alongside a Torsen limited-slip differential. Selectable terrain modes will assist in maintaining traction and control on diverse challenging surfaces, reaffirming Toyota’s commitment to capability.

Potential Future Developments

Although no official announcement has been made regarding an electric-only variant, industry speculation suggests that the underlying platform could be adaptable to battery electric powertrains in the future, aligning with Toyota’s global electrification goals.

Arrival in India: What to Expect

While Toyota has not formally confirmed a launch date for the Indian market, the Land Cruiser FJ’s positioning under the popular Fortuner makes it a strategic candidate for India, where demand for rugged, midsize SUVs continues to grow. If launched here, the FJ will likely attract SUV buyers who want Toyota’s off-road heritage in a more accessible package.

Pricing will be crucial, balancing capability with affordability, and we may see the Land Cruiser FJ serve as a “mini Fortuner” substitute, extending Toyota’s stronghold in the segment.

Here is a side-by-side comparison of the upcoming Toyota Land Cruiser FJ with existing Toyota SUVs and some anticipated rivals in the midsize SUV segment in India, to provide a clearer market perspective:

Feature / Model	Toyota Land Cruiser FJ	Toyota Fortuner	Mahindra XUV700	Hyundai Alcazar	Skoda Kushaq
Launch Timeline	Expected Q2 2026 (Global), India TBD	Available (facelift launched 2023)	Available	Available	Available
Platform	IMV 0 Ladder-Frame	IMV 2 Ladder-Frame	Monocoque	Monocoque	Monocoque
Engine Options	1.5L Diesel (entry), 2.8L Mild-Hybrid Diesel, Petrol 2.0L & 2.7L (expected)	2.4L & 2.8L Diesel, 2.7L Petrol	2.0L Turbo Petrol, 2.2L Diesel	2.0L Petrol, 1.5L Turbo Petrol	1.0L Turbo Petrol, 1.5L Turbo Petrol
Transmission	5-speed MT/AMT (likely) + 4WD system	6-speed MT/AT + 4WD options	6-speed MT/AT + AWD option	6-speed MT/AT	6-speed MT/AT
Drivetrain	Permanent 4WD, Torsen LSD	4WD and 2WD variants	AWD and FWD variants	FWD only	FWD only
Seating Capacity	5-seater (expected)	7-seater	5 or 7-seater	6 or 7-seater	5-seater
Dimensions (approx.)	Compact, under Fortuner	Larger midsize SUV	Midsize SUV	Compact midsize SUV	Compact midsize SUV
Off-Road Capability	High (Ladder frame, 4WD, terrain modes)	Good (ladder frame, 4WD)	Moderate (monocoque, AWD)	Moderate	Moderate
Expected Price Range (India)	₹18 – 25 lakh (estimate)	₹19 – 32 lakh	₹15 – 25 lakh	₹17 – 21 lakh	₹11 – 18 lakh
Target Segment	Mid-size rugged SUV under Fortuner	Premium mid-size SUV	Mid-size SUV	Premium compact SUV	Premium compact SUV
Key Selling Points	Off-road ruggedness, classic styling, compact size	Proven heritage, space, comfort	Advanced tech, feature-packed	Stylish design, premium cabin	Value for money, modern features

Summary:

• The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ distinguishes itself with its classic rugged styling, compact ladder-frame architecture, and strong off-road credentials with permanent 4WD and differential locks. It is expected to offer a more affordable yet capable option compared to the larger Fortuner.
• The Fortuner remains Toyota’s flagship midsize SUV with premium features and multiple seating configurations but comes at a higher price and larger footprint.
• The Mahindra XUV700 offers a tech-forward, feature-loaded alternative with potent engine options and optional AWD, appealing to tech-savvy buyers.
• The Hyundai Alcazar and Skoda Kushaq cater to buyers looking for premium yet urban-focused SUVs with FWD layouts and modern interiors, prioritizing comfort over hardcore off-road ability.

Conclusion

The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ is shaping up to be an exciting addition to the global SUV landscape, marrying retro styling with modern tech and solid off-road credentials. Its competitive engine lineup, rugged ladder-frame architecture, and advanced drivetrain features position it to appeal to a broad spectrum of SUV buyers.

For Indian customers craving a capable, mid-sized Toyota SUV below the Fortuner, the Land Cruiser FJ represents a compelling option—one that could redefine expectations in the market segment once it hits Indian shores.

With the festive season of Diwali just a few months away, leading two-wheeler brands in India are gearing up to launch exciting new motorcycles and scooters. Over the next 3-4 months, buyers can expect notable additions from industry stalwarts like Hero MotoCorp, TVS, Royal Enfield, and others. Here’s a rundown of the six most anticipated upcoming bikes and scooters set to hit Indian roads soon:

1. TVS Ntorq 150

TVS is set to launch its most powerful scooter to date, the TVS Ntorq 150, on September 1, 2025. This premium scooter will compete directly with the Yamaha Aerox 155 and Hero Xoom 160. Styling will echo the popular Ntorq 125, while technical specifications are likely to offer enhanced performance, details of which are expected soon.

2. Hero-Harley 440cc Bike

Hero MotoCorp has confirmed a new 440cc bike launch before the end of September 2025. Though official images are unavailable, speculation points to either a retro roadster or a lightweight cruiser, marking an exciting collaboration with Harley Davidson and adding depth to Hero’s mid-capacity motorcycle portfolio.

3. Ather EL

Bengaluru-based electric startup Ather Energy is working on a low-cost electric scooter named Ather EL, set to debut in concept form on August 30, 2025. Priced under ₹1 lakh, it will compete with models like the Ola S1X, Bajaj Chetak 300, and Hero Vida VX2, aiming to popularize EVs among entry-level buyers.

4. Royal Enfield Flying Flea C6

Royal Enfield’s first electric motorcycle, the Flying Flea C6, has undergone rigorous testing in Ladakh and is expected to debut at EICMA 2025. Its Indian launch is likely at the Motoverse 2025 event in Goa. While specs remain under wraps, the bike promises to uphold Royal Enfield’s rugged character with a green twist.

5. Triumph Bonneville 400

Triumph Motorcycles India plans to launch two new 400cc motorcycles in 2025, one being the Bonneville 400. Inspired by classic retro styling and powered by a 398cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine, it will rival the Royal Enfield Classic 350, likely previewed at EICMA 2025.

6. KTM RC 160

Following the launch of the Duke 160, KTM will soon introduce the fully faired RC 160, rivalling Yamaha R15 V4. Featuring styling cues from the RC 200 and RC 390, it will use the same sporty 160cc liquid-cooled engine, offering exciting performance for the 160cc segment.

What This Means for Indian Buyers

This festive season is set to bring a rich variety of two-wheelers, spanning powerful petrol bikes, stylish retro cruisers, and affordable electric scooters. Consumers will enjoy greater choices and the latest technology timed perfectly with Diwali buying momentum.

Conclusion

With launches from TVS, Hero, Royal Enfield, Triumph, and KTM, the next 3-4 months promise to invigorate India’s two-wheeler market. Whether you seek an electric scooter, a retro classic, or a sporty streetfighter, these six new models are poised to offer something exciting for every rider.

The Indian midsize SUV market is gearing up for a significant transformation. Over the next six to nine months, the segment is expected to become highly competitive with several new launches from leading automakers like Tata Motors, Mahindra, Renault, Kia, and Nissan. These new models promise fresh designs, electrification, and upgraded features to captivate buyers looking for spacious, stylish, and tech-savvy SUVs. Here’s a closer look at the five midsize SUVs set to reshape the landscape:

1. New Renault Duster

The iconic Renault Duster is making a much-anticipated comeback with a completely new generation, expected to launch towards late 2025 or early 2026. The upcoming Duster will be built on the CMF-B+ modular platform, extensively developed and localized for the Indian market. Unlike its predecessor, the new Duster is expected to feature a hybrid powertrain, although at launch it may offer petrol variants only. This shift signifies Renault’s commitment to elevating the Duster’s efficiency and appeal while maintaining its rugged SUV character.

2. New Kia Seltos

The second generation of the extremely popular Kia Seltos has been caught testing multiple times in India. While Kia has not officially announced the launch date, industry sources hint at a 2026 roll-out. The new Seltos will feature a completely redesigned exterior and interior, adopting Kia’s latest global design language. Potential buyers can also expect a hybrid variant to enter the lineup soon after launch, catering to the growing demand for electrified SUVs.

3. Nissan’s Upcoming Midsize SUV

Nissan is set to make a mark with a new midsize SUV conceived as the modern successor to the discontinued Terrano. This SUV will share the CMF-B+ platform with the next-gen Renault Duster, ensuring mechanical similarities and parts localization benefits. The car has already been spied testing in India, signaling an expected 2026 launch. Positioned above Nissan’s compact offerings, this SUV aims to combine modern styling and enhanced features to attract midsize SUV buyers.

4. New Tata Sierra (Electric and Petrol Variants)

Tata Motors is reviving the iconic Sierra nameplate in an electrified avatar. The all-electric Sierra EV is tipped to launch before the current financial year ends, built on the base of the Harrier EV architecture. Tata plans a phased roll-out with combustion engine variants expected to arrive in 2026, making the Sierra lineup versatile for a wider audience looking for either zero-emission electric power or traditional petrol/diesel options.

5. Mahindra XUV700 Facelift

Keeping pace with competition, Mahindra is prepping a facelift for the highly successful XUV700, earmarked for launch in early 2026. While the update won’t be revolutionary, expect design tweaks, a refreshed interior, and new equipment additions to keep the XUV700 appealing in a crowded segment. This facelift will help Mahindra sustain its popular position amid aggressive new launches.

What This Means for Indian Buyers

The imminent arrival of these five midsize SUVs signals an exciting time for buyers. With new-age hybrid and electric powertrains, fresh styling, and premium features, customers will have more choices in the midsize SUV segment than ever before. The competition will likely translate into better pricing, improved technology offerings, and enhanced driving experiences, making this a golden period for SUV enthusiasts in India.

Conclusion

India’s midsize SUV segment is poised for a major makeover with the launch of new Renault Duster, Kia Seltos, Nissan’s midsize SUV, Tata Sierra, and the facelifted Mahindra XUV700 within the next 6 to 9 months. These vehicles promise to push boundaries in design, electrification, and value, raising the bar for what customers can expect from midsize SUVs in India.

Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has expanded its popular micro SUV lineup with the launch of the Hyundai Exter Pro Pack, aimed at attracting buyers during the festive season by blending cosmetic upgrades and enhanced features. Since its debut in 2023, the Exter has carved a niche in the highly competitive sub-four-metre SUV segment with its stylish design and efficient performance.

Premium New Titan Grey Matte Paint and Sporty Styling

One of the standout features of the Exter Pro Pack is the exclusive Titan Grey Matte paint finish, lending the SUV a bold and premium presence on the road. This new color option enhances the vehicle’s muscular stance, further accentuated by revamped wheel arch cladding and a distinctive side sill garnish.

The Exter continues to impress with an extensive color palette of over ten options, including:

• Atlas White
• Fiery Red
• Ranger Khaki
• Starry Night
• Cosmic Blue
• Abyss Black
• Shadow Grey

Several of these shades also come with a contrasting Abyss Black roof for added style.

More Variants Get Dashcam Feature

In response to growing customer demand for safety and convenience, Hyundai has also broadened the availability of the dashcam feature—previously limited to select trims—to more variants across the Exter range. This addition equips more owners with an important safety tool for everyday journeys.

Performance and Pricing

The Hyundai Exter Pro Pack continues to be powered by the well-regarded 1.2-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine, delivering:

• 82 bhp of power
• 113.8 Nm of torque

Buyers can choose from a smooth five-speed manual transmission or a five-speed AMT for effortless city driving.

The Pro Pack variants include all S+ MT and above models, with prices starting attractively at ₹7.98 lakh (ex-showroom), providing strong value for those seeking advanced styling and technology in a compact SUV.

Hyundai’s Commitment to Value and Customer Delight

Speaking on the launch, Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director and COO of Hyundai Motor India, said:

“The introduction of PRO Pack in Hyundai EXTER is a step further in this direction, combining bold styling, advanced technology and strong safety to create a truly distinctive value proposition. With its refreshed appeal, the PRO Pack in Hyundai EXTER strengthens our commitment to redefining customer delight and making every drive a PRO experience.”

Final Thoughts

With the Hyundai Exter Pro Pack, HMIL is clearly targeting buyers who want a compact SUV that offers a mix of modern aesthetics, practicality, and smart features at a competitive price. The exclusive Titan Grey Matte finish coupled with increased tech accessibility like the dashcam feature makes it a compelling choice in the festive buying season of 2025.

For those searching for a sub-4m SUV with fresh styling and enhanced on-road technology, the Hyundai Exter Pro Pack stands out as an exciting new offering in a crowded segment.

The Indian automotive landscape is on the brink of a price shake-up, as premium SUVs and sedans are set to become significantly more affordable following a proposed revision in GST rates. Currently, big SUVs and luxury sedans are taxed at a whopping 50 percent—the highest GST bracket for automobiles in the country. However, after recent ministerial panel discussions, a reduction to 40 percent GST is on the table, potentially ushering in a new wave of lower prices for high-end vehicles.

GST Revision: What’s Changing?

Presently, large cars and SUVs fall under a dual tax structure: a 28 percent GST combined with a 22 percent cess, totaling 50 percent. This tax regime has kept prices of premium models steep, often putting them out of reach for many buyers. The proposed update would eliminate the cess and establish a flat 40 percent GST rate for these vehicles, a move being considered by the GST Council, which is chaired by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

Some states have called for the continuation of a compensatory cess. However, government sources indicate a strong push to remove the cess entirely, as it was initially implemented for only five years to offset states’ revenue losses during GST roll-out. The cess was extended due to COVID-19, but the central government is now keen to wind it down, as those extraordinary circumstances have eased.

Impact on Pricing: What Buyers Need to Know

The drop from 50 percent to 40 percent taxation has the potential to substantially decrease the ex-showroom prices of luxury SUVs and sedans. In absolute terms, the reduction will deliver bigger savings for buyers of large vehicles than recent GST slab drops for small hatchbacks, which are expected to become cheaper by 12–13 percent as their GST moves from 29 percent to just 18 percent.

This price cut isn’t limited to a few models—it will apply across all internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles powered by petrol, diesel, or hybrids. The revisions will help bring the cost of premium ICE-powered vehicles closer to that of EVs, which are already taxed at just 5 percent GST. Although electric vehicles often have a higher upfront price, the narrowing price gap will give buyers more choices and incentives to consider their best fit.

Will Consumers Actually Benefit?

One major concern in tax cut situations is whether manufacturers will genuinely pass the savings directly to buyers. The government’s “anti-profiteering” rules don’t apply in this context, so it will be up to OEMs to reflect the revised GST in their vehicle prices. According to sources, carmakers have strong motivation this time to lower prices, especially with the high-demand festive season approaching. For many automakers, this change represents a major opportunity to boost sales, drive higher showroom traffic, and attract more first-time buyers to the SUV and sedan segments.

What Does This Mean for the Market?

The big SUV segment has been outpacing hatchback and small car sales in recent years, driven by consumer preference for space, comfort, and elevated driving position. With the new GST rate likely to make these vehicles even more accessible, an even greater uptick in SUV and sedan sales is expected—potentially changing the competitive landscape and market leaderboards.

At the same time, the reduction in GST for small cars aims to revive demand in the entry-level segment, ensuring broader affordability gains across the board.

Conclusion

If the GST Council moves forward with a flat 40 percent tax rate and eliminates the cess, buyers across India could soon see significant price reductions on premium SUVs and sedans. For carmakers, it’s likely to translate into higher volumes, particularly in the all-important festive season. Ultimately, this shift could bring a broader range of vehicles within reach for Indian consumers—making the dream of owning a big SUV or luxury sedan a little easier to achieve.