When Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) launched the all-new Land Cruiser FJ at the 10th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS), it generated plenty of buzz from customers. Not only does the new FJ now serve as the stepping stone in the Land Cruiser model lineup, but its size and dimensions mean it's going to be a popular choice among 4x4 enthusiasts, outfitters, and the off-road community as a whole.

However, the Land Cruiser FJ model that was shown at PIMS 2026 was the range-topping VX model, which has all the goodies and trimmings. Combined with a price tag of PHP 2.575 million, it's quite the expensive 4x4 SUV. Fortunately, Toyota also sells the entry-level TX version for PHP 2.235M, and we got to take a closer look at it.

Immediately grabbing our attention was the fact that the TX comes with 17-inch steelies wrapped in 265/65 series tires. That's right, it has no alloy wheels, which might be a turn-off for some buyers. However, those who plan to swap the steelies for aftermarket wheels will have no trouble selling the former. Alternatively, those who plan to treat the Land Cruiser FJ TX as a workhorse 4x4 may find the steel wheels a better choice compared to stylish alloys.

Beyond that, the TX has no foglights, no mudguards, lacks sidesteps, and comes with no roof rails. While some might say the lack of foglights, mudguards, and sidesteps may become a deal breaker, some customers may want to install their own foglights or auxiliary lights, as well as their preferred side steps. However, we find it odd that Toyota decided to remove the roof rails for the base TX.

Hop inside, and the Land Cruiser FJ TX welcomes occupants with synthetic leather seats, which are standard across the range. However, the TX only comes with manual-adjust front seats (power-adjust only for VX). Meanwhile, the steering wheel is finished in urethane, as the leather finish is exclusive only to the VX.

When it comes to infotainment, the TX version comes with a smaller 9-inch touchscreen media display. Despite having a smaller screen compared to the VX's 12.3-inch display, both the TX and VX come with wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay. Last but not least, the Land Cruiser FJ TX doesn't come with the Toyota Safety Sense, as it's only available in the top-of-the-line VX.

Under the hood, all variants of the Land Cruiser FJ come with the 2.7L 2TR-FE naturally aspirated gasoline inline-four with Dual VVT-i. It makes a respectable 166 PS at 5200 rpm and 245 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm. Power is then sent to a 6-speed automatic transmission with part-time 4WD (2H, 4H, and 4L). To help drivers while going off-road, the drivetrain also benefits from an auto limited-slip differential and a rear locking diff for extra traction when the going gets tough.

Despite having fewer features than the VX model, the entry-level TX version of the Land Cruiser FJ presents quite the proposition. With a simpler list of exterior and interior features, those who want to treat the Land Cruiser FJ as a workhorse 4x4 can do so without having to think about the additional features.

More importantly, the TX variant can serve as a blank canvas for customers who wish to dress up the SUV without having to think about the alloy wheels and removing other exterior features.

What do you think of the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ TX and its PHP 2.235M price tag?