Toyota Hilux comes home to Japan; there's Land Cruiser and FJ Cruiser news too

When Toyota discontinued the 1997-introduced model in Japan, it was the last generation to be sold or built there; the following generation was predominantly Thailand-built.

The newest and eighth generation was introduced in 2015. Originally, the Hilux name dates back almost 50 years — 17.3 million Hilux trucks have been built since 1968.

In addition to the Hilux, Toyota is also giving attention to its Land Cruiser and FJ Cruiser models. The Land Cruiser Prado, its most recent complete redesign from 2009, has received a modest facelift that also stretches to the interior. Tech-wise, the Land Cruiser series will now be using a Torsen limited slip differential for the first time, in the refreshed Prado. (In the U.S., the Lexus GX is heavily based on its Prado cousin.)

As for the FJ Cruiser, it is still being made — but only just. The left-hand-drive versions ceased production two years ago, but the RHD FJ soldiers on, and the retro-styled truck has now been given a "Final Edition" specification in Japan. To dial up the retro, the Final Edition FJ Cruiser is beige to the core, and it also benefits from a new set of 20-inch wheels.

The Japanese Hilux will only be available with a 2.4-liter diesel four, which befits its workhorse image. The Prado's powertrain options are either a 2.7-liter gasoline engine or a 2.8-liter diesel, both four-cylinder, and the sole engine option for the FJ is the four-liter gasoline V6.