Land Cruiser and FJ Cruiser are not available in the US anymore. But, the new Cruiser is coming soon – the 2024 Toyota Compact Cruiser. The first concepts were shown in 2021 and the company is ready to start building the urban SUV with an electric drivetrain. It is not a surprise, having in mind not only Toyota but most other carmakers, are producing more EVs nowadays. In the near future, gas and diesel engines will be shut down and replaced with electric batteries.
The 2024 Toyota Compact Cruiser is borrowing design solutions from some old Cruisers. We see a clear inspiration in the FJ and the first generation of the Land Cruiser. So, there is a question if the new SUV is going to be aesthetic. Nowadays, this is an important factor. Minor details can lure buyers. Anyway, we think the look is cool. Also, the new Compact Cruiser will be able to offer the joy of riding in all areas – city, highway, and off-road. Special versions will be tuned for the best performance in tough terrain conditions.
For now, we know the vehicle is coming to Europe. Well, it is a creation of the company’s quarters in this part of the world. But, the electric SUV already drew the attention of the US fans, who already missed the FJ Cruiser, and now the Land Cruiser 300 is unavailable as well.
2024 Toyota Compact Cruiser Concept Design
Of course the 2024 Toyota Compact Cruiser draws a lot of attention thanks to its look. Designers brought back old rigid SUV lines, with the boxy body, eye-catching graphics, and an upgrade you cannot miss – a ladder on the side of the vehicle. First of all – dimensions. The small SUV is pretty short, so a 4-door layout doesn’t look so suitable. We still don’t have images of the interior. There won’t be too much space inside, that is for sure. On the other hand, Toyota will pack the Compact Cruiser with the latest systems that are in close relation with electric vehicles. Smart options, driver aid features and autonomous drive are just some of the certain accessories.
Let’s go back to what we saw. The boxy look is one of the reasons why the FJ Cruiser was not too efficient on the road. Instead of the redesign, Toyota opted for the discontinuation, making more room for other more popular SUVs. Now, we see a very similar concept in development. Wheel arches look cool. Silver wheels will split opinions. Retro style is not for everyone. The concept is heavily packed, so we see roof racks, aux lights and branch deflectors. Those things promise a lot of off-road fun.
2024 Toyota Compact Cruiser EV Specs
So far, we know only that the 2024 Toyota Compact Cruiser is going to be an all-electric SUV. There are also strong indications that all-wheel drive will be standard. From this, experts assume there will be two electric engines, one for both axles. Still, the specs sheet with outputs and range is not available yet.
On the other hand, there is no similar vehicles to compare them with the upcoming Compact Cruiser EV. Toyota has a few interesting concepts. The most recent one is the Tacoma EV truck. But, like for the new Cruiser, there are no details about the performance.
Expectations
The concept is official and now we can only guess when it will be available and what Toyota plans with the new SUV. As the electric vehicle, it is hard to meet expectations from fans of overlanding. No company produced an EV that can provide a similar experience to driving Toyota 4Runner or Jeep Wrangler. The iconic vehicle with a 7-slot grille might get an electric version, but the Magneto is still a concept, just like the 2024 Toyota Compact Cruiser.
On the other hand, the Japanese company has a lot of advanced equipment and systems that can be a perfect fit for any EV. Well, in this world, we can see evolution every day. So, what seems to be futuristic today can be old in a couple of months. That is another reason why Toyota is not unveiling details. Enthusiasts believe the new Compact Cruiser SUV can bring Level 4 autonomous drive and a range of at least 250 miles. Those are big numbers. But if anyone can meet high expectations, that is Toyota.
When Will 2024 Toyota Compact Cruiser be Available?
The concept is live and the Japanese carmaker must keep pace with other companies developing and building their EVs. So, the Compact Cruiser could be released pretty soon. At least we could get more details about the interior and drivetrains. Without a doubt, the SUV is going to be eye-catching with the modernized retro look and all the upgrades it can take. The price depends on all the gadgets and after updates, we will be able to make the first estimations. Knowing the new Cruiser is an EV, you can only be sure that the MSRP is not starting under $40,000.