The automotive world was recently electrified when Toyota brought back the Land Cruiser FJ, fondly known as the “Baby Land Cruiser.” What is so interesting about this announcement is that the LC FJ is built on the same basic engine and platform as the popular Toyota Fortuner – essentially making them automotive siblings with a different attitude. But there are some features that are different from each other that make them stand in a different perspective. Buyers can check every detail through this article before buying it.

The Common Foundation: More Than Just Shared Parts

The Toyota LC FJ and Fortuner connection is far deeper than just a parts-bin-sharing exercise. Both are based on Toyota’s tried and tested IMV (Innovative International Multipurpose Vehicle) platform, a hardy ladder-frame chassis that has underpinned Toyota’s global pickup and SUV strategy since 2004. This platform has already been proven with more than 5 million vehicles worldwide with not only the Fortuner, but also the Hilux pickup and Innova minivan. 

The LC FJ employs in particular a modified version of the IMV platform, known as IMV 0, that Toyota designed to produce cheaper but just as capable vehicles for developing markets. Preserving the shape and off-road capabilities of the original IMV platform, the IMV 0 version utilizes cost-effective materials and production techniques. 

The Heart of the Matter: The 2TR-FE Engine

Perhaps the biggest similarity between these two SUVs lies under the bonnet. The Toyota LC FJ and Fortuner petrol variant comes with the same 2TR-FE 2.7 litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine. This is not just similar spec – it’s the same engine code, same displacement and same core architecture. 

The 2TR-FE produces 163 PS (160 hp) at 5,200 rpm and 246 Nm of torque in the LC FJ while the Fortuner petrol version produces almost the same numbers: 163 PS at 5,220 rpm and 245 N⋅m at 4,020 rpm. This is the first Toyota engine to employ its Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) technology on the intake and exhaust camshafts which enables the engine to achieve maximum performance at any engine speed. 

The 2TR-FE is based on a cast-iron block with an aluminum cylinder head and features double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with 16 valves. The engine uses a timing chain instead of a belt, which has added to its reputation for reliability and low maintenance. 

Platform Similarities

Both vehicles are built on the IMV platform with a ladder frame chassis, which ensures high levels of structural rigidity and makes them exceptionally capable off road. This body-on-frame construction has several advantages. 

Shared Structural Elements:

• Two wishbone front suspension for handling and off-road articulation superiority with an articulating rear suspension
• Multi-link rear suspension engineered to deliver the right balance of comfort and capability
• Engines mounted in-line for best weight distribution
• 4WD power, with part-time systems available on the two vehicles. 

The LC FJ can provide a wheelbase of 2,580 mm as against 2,745 mm for the Fortuner, but both the vehicles boast nearly identical ride qualities and off-road capabilities. 

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Where They Diverge: Different Missions, Different Personalities

Yet, there are two entirely different markets and purposes for the LC FJ versus the Fortuner. 

Size and Dimension

The first big gap is the size difference. The Toyota LC FJ is 4,575 mm long, which is 220 mm less than the length of the Fortuner of 4,795 mm. The Fortuner and LC FJ have the same width of 1,855 mm, but the LC FJ is taller at 1,960 mm compared to the Fortuner’s 1,835 mm height. 

Seating and Practicality

The LC FJ is available with five seats and two rows which makes it a more intimate, adventure-oriented vehicle. By comparison, the Fortuner has three rows and seven seats, making it the family-friendly option for those requiring the most passenger space. 

Engine Options: Choice vs. Simplicity

Both cars are available with the 2TR-FE petrol engine, but the Fortuner has more options with the 2.8-liter 1GD-FTV turbocharged diesel engine. The diesel version is every bit more powerful and torquey: 201 PS and 500 N⋅m , and it is the performance option for those who care most about towing pack and mileage. 

Contrarily, the LC FJ is all about simplicity, being petrol-only, which I suspect points to a Toyota strategy to keep the price down and the reliability up in those markets where the quality of diesel fuel can be suspect. 

Transmission and Drivetrain: Refined vs. Flexible

Both cars use 6-speed automatics, but different philosophies. The LC FJ uses Toyota’s 6-speed Super ECT automatic transmission in conjunction with part-time 4WD. It’s a simple system that focuses on ease of use and reliability for those who want to keep things basic. 

The Fortuner has more flexibility with manual and automatic transmission options across the engine range as well as 2WD and 4WD variants to suit the pockets and requirements of different customers. This flexibility allows the Fortuner to attract both city commuters and hardcore off-roaders. 

Design Philosophy: Heritage vs. Contemporary

The styling treatments illustrate different positioning of the brands. The LC FJ is inspired by Land Cruiser heritage, especially the legendary FJ40, with its boxy shape, round headlights and utilitarian look.This aesthetic resonates with enthusiasts that appreciate the Land Cruiser’s famous off-road heritage. 

The Fortuner gets a more contemporary SUV look, which is a perfect blend of ruggedness and modern sophistication.Its styling is aimed at buyers who want utility, but who don’t want their utility vehicle to look out of place on city streets. 

Market Positioning: Specialized vs. Mainstream

The LC FJ is aimed at adventure seekers and Land Cruiser fans who crave real off-road ability in a package that is more attainable and affordable. With its streamlined spec sheet and retro styling, it appeals to buyers for whom substance matters more than features. 

Apart from the of Fortuner caters to the mass premium SUV segment with the comfort of choice across multiple engine options, seating configurations, and trim levels. It strikes the perfect balance between off-road prowess and refined on-road performance to make it your daily driver or weekend adventurer for the off-road trails. 

The Reliability Factor of The Proven Technology

Arguably the most exciting part about both products is that they are based on thoroughly proven designs. Since 2004, the 2TR-FE engine has covered millions of miles in various global markets and has a great reliability record. The IMV platform also has proven itself with over 5 million units produced with no major structural faults.This common technical baseline gives both vehicles the Toyota’s renowned durability and low cost of maintenance. 

Conclusion

The Toyota LC FJ and Fortuner are excellent examples of platform engineering – where common platform underpinnings are used to create completely different vehicles that cater to individual market needs. They have the same heart and bones, but different souls, and those different souls give each one a reason to exist in Toyota’s ever-growing SUV family. 

Be it the LC FJ’s genuine roots and stripped-back purpose, or the Fortuner’s flexible family-friendly angle, both promise the same dependable and capable ethos that has made Toyota’s IMV platform one of the most successful automotive architectures ever. 

The Range Rover Astronaut Edition is the ultimate statement of exclusivity in the luxury SUV, reserved for an elite cadre of individuals who have secured their places among the stars. This extraordinary machine marries earthbound comfort with space-age technology in the most unique vehicular experience for Virgin Galactic’s Future Astronauts to date! 

The Ultimate Exclusive Access

The Range Rover Astronaut Edition is defined not only by its incredible design but also by its breathtaking exclusivity. This one-of-a-kind ride is available only to those who are signed up to be Virgin Galactic Future Astronauts, none of whom have been on an actual spacecraft yet. With some 600-700 people having already laid down $250,000 for a 90-minute ride with Virgin Galactic, this effectively sets the production limit at 700 units for the whole world. 

The exclusivity is part of the continuing partnership between Land Rover and Virgin Galactic that launched in 2014. It’s more than lip service, however, as Land Rover vehicles are used at Virgin Galactic’s facilities to tow space vehicles, transport equipment, and even clear runways prior to launch. 

Design That Defies Gravity

Image credit: RangeRover

Exterior Excellence

The Astronaut Edition features a stunning Zero Gravity Blue paint finish, which was specially developed for this watch and is inspired by the depth and brilliance of the night sky. This special hue really embodies the spirit of space travel, and immediately creates a visual link with the cosmos. 

There is unique Astronaut Edition badging on the tailgate and on the side profile finishers. In what’s perhaps the most extraordinary detail, the vehicle comes with custom puddle lamps that shine the silhouette of Virgin Galactic’s SpaceShipTwo on the ground, serving as a breathtaking visual reminder of the owner’s trip into space. 

Interior Innovation

The Astronaut Edition cabin is a rocket-themed retreat, inside and out, with insane details. The centerpiece are two amazing discs that sit within the cup holders, each made from the actual front landing skid of the Virgin Spaceship Unity.

The most amazing part about these discs is how they evolve: after the owners finish their Virgin Galactic space flight, these original pieces are replaced with material from the wooden skid that the actual spacecraft they flew on rests on, complete with personalized inscriptions outlining their “life-changing experience”. 

Inside there is a unique DNA of Flight graphic on the carbon fibre centre console lid and the leather rear armrest illustrating the development of manned flight from Icarus’ mythical wings to the Wright Brothers’ aeroplane and the Apollo Lunar Module. The machined aluminum door handles are etched with Virgin Galactic s Future Astronaut community constellation pattern, a graphic which also adorns the front headrests and the glove box. 

Performance That Soars

Image credit: RangeRover

The Range Rover Astronaut Edition has two powerplant choices to suit different tastes:

P400e Plug-in Hybrid: It has a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine along with electric power, with a combined power output ranging from 398-404 horsepower. This green option gives a fully electric range of 42 kilometers and CO2 emissions of only 72g/km.​

P525 Supercharged V8: Experience thrill ride akin to space travel with a potent 5.0 litre supercharged petrol V8 producing 518-525 horsepower. 

Each engine is available with an advanced all-wheel-drive system and Land Rover’s acclaimed Terrain Response system, which makes sure the vehicle is at home on solid ground or on its way to the next generation of space explorers. 

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Pricing and Availability

While Land Rover has yet to release exact pricing for the Astronaut Edition, sources tell us the vehicle is based on the Range Rover Autobiography platform which has a starting price of around £103,130 in the UK. On the Indian side, the standard Range Rover models are priced between ₹2.31 crore – ₹4.25 crore, meaning that the Astronaut Edition would be at a premium over these figures. 

Image credit: RangeRover

As the Future Astronauts have already poured in $250,000 to book their space flight tickets, the extra cost for this exclusive Range Rover will be small change for this elite group. The limited edition run of 700 units worldwide will ensure that this will be one of the most elusive and collectible Range Rover editions of all time. 

Beyond Transportation: A Statement of Achievement

The Range Rover Astronaut Edition breaks the mold of traditional automotive design to stand for human achievement in the exploration of space and beyond. It is where British luxury design met the pioneering nature of commercial space travel.Every design element tells a tale of humanity’s desire to reach beyond the confines of Earth’s atmosphere. 

Image credit: RangeRover

For its exclusive owners, this car is both a daily reminder of their journey to the cosmos and a keepsake of their place in the history of space exploration.

The Future of Luxury Mobility

The Astronaut Edition showcases how high-end car makers are developing to offer experiences that go well beyond the usual forms of transport. Land Rover has teamed up with Virgin Galactic to offer more than a vehicle: a lifestyle experience that connects terrestrial luxury with the wonders of space exploration. 

Conclusion 

The Range Rover Astronaut Edition is a celebration of human aspiration, bringing together the best aspects of British luxury with the endless potential of space travel.For the lucky 600-700 who will get to experience the car and the cosmic journey, it is a dream come true. The worldwide collaboration also has an educational spin — it aims to inspire young people around the world to go become engineers, scientists and technologists. The collaboration speaks to a vision of the luxury house participating in humanity’s grandest adventures while remaining dedicated to extraordinary craftsmanship and innovation. 

Finding a car that fits your body is very important, especially if you are tall. Some cars feel too tight. Your knees hit the dashboard. Your head touches the roof. That makes driving painful. The good news is many used cars offer big space and comfort. 

We made a list of the best used cars for tall drivers. These cars provide more legroom and headroom for your efficiency. They also come with other good features and fair prices.

Honda Odyssey

The Honda Odyssey is one of the great choices for all the tall drivers. It has a high roof and wide seats. You can stretch your legs and sit up straight. It also has smooth steering and good safety features.

• Front Headroom: 40.7 inches
• Front Legroom: 40.9 inches
• Used Price Range (2017-2020): $18,000 – $30,000
• Seats: Up to 8 people
• Good Features: Power sliding doors, rear-seat entertainment system, rearview camera, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto

Toyota Sienna

The Toyota Sienna is another roomy minivan. It has soft seats and so much space so even very tall drivers fit comfortably. The Toyota Sienna is also the only minivan with available all-wheel drive.

• Front Headroom: 41.0 inches
• Front Legroom: 40.5 inches
• Used Price Range (2017-2020): $19,000 – $32,000
• Seats: Up to 8 people
• Good Features: AWD option, tri-zone climate control, advanced safety tech, strong resale value

Ford F-150

The Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup truck. It gives you a lot of legroom and a tall driving position. You feel high up and safe. It is also very good for towing and hauling.

• Front Headroom: 40.8 inches
• Front Legroom: 43.9 inches
• Used Price Range (2015-2020): $20,000 – $40,000
• Seats: Up to 6 in crew cab
• Good Features: Strong towing, spacious cabin, V6 or V8 engine, advanced safety features in newer models

GMC Canyon

The GMC Canyon is a midsize pickup, but it feels very roomy. It is easy to drive and park. In the crew cab model, it offers one of the best legroom numbers for a truck.

• Front Headroom: 40.3 inches
• Front Legroom: 45.2 inches
• Used Price Range (2016-2020): $18,000 – $33,000
• Seats: Up to 5
• Good Features: Good fuel economy, touchscreen system, smooth ride for a truck

Ford Taurus

The Ford Taurus is a large sedan with lots of interior space. It is no longer made new, but you can find second-hand used cars at the best prices. It is quiet, comfortable, and easy to drive.

• Front Headroom: 39.0 inches
• Front Legroom: 44.2 inches
• Used Price Range (2015-2019): $10,000 – $20,000
• Seats: 5
• Good Features: Big trunk, V6 engine, comfortable highway ride, optional AWD

Ford Expedition

The Ford Expedition is a big SUV. It has huge space inside and can tow heavy things. The seats are tall and wide, so tall drivers feel relaxed. You sit high and get a great view.

• Front Headroom: 41.5 inches
• Front Legroom: 43.9 inches
• Used Price Range (2017-2020): $28,000 – $45,000
• Seats: Up to 8
• Good Features: Powerful V6, big cargo space, smooth ride, great for road trips

Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV. It has a roomy cabin and soft seats. The controls are easy to reach. Tall drivers enjoy the legroom and relaxed driving style.

• Front Headroom: 39.5 inches
• Front Legroom: 44.2 inches
• Used Price Range (2017-2020): $22,000 – $35,000
• Seats: Up to 8
• Good Features: Great safety ratings, strong resale value, V6 engine, AWD available

Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester is a small SUV, but it feels very open inside. The tall roof gives extra headroom. It also has great visibility and comes with all-wheel drive.

• Front Headroom: 41.2 inches
• Front Legroom: 43.3 inches
• Used Price Range (2017-2020): $17,000 – $28,000
• Seats: 5
• Good Features: Standard AWD, high safety scores, good gas mileage, roomy feel

Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V car is one of the best-selling SUVs cars of 2024. It is not too big, but the inside is roomy. Tall drivers like the high seat and easy controls. It also has great reliability.

• Front Headroom: 40.0 inches
• Front Legroom: 41.3 inches
• Used Price Range (2017-2020): $18,000 – $30,000
• Seats: 5
• Good Features: Excellent fuel economy, smart interior layout, very reliable

Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback is like a mix between a car and an SUV. It has a tall ride height and a flat roof. This gives tall people plenty of space. It also comes with standard AWD.

• Front Headroom: 40.1 inches
• Front Legroom: 42.8 inches
• Used Price Range (2017-2020): $19,000 – $32,000
• Seats: 5
• Good Features: Smooth ride, strong safety ratings, lots of cargo room, great in snow

Final Thoughts

If you are tall, you need a car that gives you enough room. Cramped cars can cause back pain, sore knees, and a bad driving experience. The best used cars for tall drivers offer comfort, safety, and good value. Whether you want a van, SUV, truck, or sedan, there is a perfect match out there. Before buying, always check the headroom and legroom and you should also sit in the car and take a test drive.

With the right car, driving becomes fun again. All the cars in this list are good options. They give tall people the comfort and space they need.

If you’re one of those people who thinks the future of driving is electric but you just haven’t made the jump yet, the Nissan Leaf might be the car to change your mind. Carrying an expected price tag of ₹30 lakh, this revolutionary EV is designed to disrupt the EV market in India by offering global standards and tried & tested reliability to your garage without burning a hole in your pocket. 

Why the Nissan Leaf is Creating a Buzz

Electric cars have always felt like something only the very rich could afford. But that story is being rewritten, with the Nissan Leaf. With over a decade of global real-world success, the Nissan Leaf is widely recognized as the most dependable and practical electric vehicle in the world. It is also the best-selling electric car in the world – over 6 million units have been sold worldwide. Now, with its introduction in India at ₹30 lakh, it is making electric mobility open to all and that is a game-changer. 

Performance That Actually Delivers

The Nissan Leaf’s Indian edition is powered by a 40 kWh battery pack that drives a 148 bhp electric motor which churns out 320 Nm of torque. Now if you’re not a number person, let’s talk about what that means: It’s more torque than a lot of run-of-the-mill petrol cars in the same price bracket, and it translates to acceleration that’s quick, smooth, and genuinely exciting. It goes from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 7.5 seconds – nothing supercar level, but not bad at all.

Image credit: Nissan

What makes this performance so special is the delivery of immediate torque. Unlike traditional engines that have to spin up, electric motors generate peak torque right away. This makes your daily city commute driving a breeze and highway overtaking a cinch. 

How Far Will It Really Go?

The Nissan Leaf goes some way to allay that worry with a single charge range of 195-240 km depending on the variant you choose and driving conditions. It’s not supposed to be your pick for a 500-km interstate road trip, but it is totally perfect for your daily commitment, your weekend runs or your jaunts around town.

Just think about your life on a standard day. Most Indians travel around 30-50 km daily. The Nissan Leaf does this with ease, and the ideal your everyday needs car needs to be able to do that. It’s also worth noting that in eco mode you can boost the range making it even better for those who mind How far they drive. 

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Charging the Nissan Leaf is simpler than you might imagine

At a normal home charger a full charge takes around 7-8 hours. If you’re charging with a DC fast charger — which can be found at shopping malls, highways, and charging networks — you can go from 20% to 80% in just 40 to 60 minutes. That’s basically the amount of time you need for a coffee break.

The home charging cable is also supplied along with the intelligent charging management system of the vehicle, which allows you to set charging during the hours of low electricity rates, making it convenient and saving electricity bills. In addition, the charging port is waterproof and there is an advanced locking system, so you never have to worry about security or weather-proof! 

Features That Make It Feel Premium

Don’t let the ₹30 lakh price tag mislead you—there is an almond of salt that is packed with amenities found in cars costing much more than this. The car comes with 6 air bags, electronic stability control, hill start assist and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) that are comparable to vehicles three times its price. Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, intelligent blind spot intervention all contribute to an even safer ride on JLR products.

There is a modern touchscreen interface, ample comfortable seating, and an unexpectedly roomy cargo area with rear seats that fold down. In addition to the ambient lighting and the serene cabin, you tend to forget that you are driving — thanks to the an almost imperceptibly quiet electric motor. 

Why Choose the Nissan Leaf Over Competitors?

In the Rs 30 lakh category, you are eyeballing rivals like the MG ZS EV and Tata Nexon EV MAX. While the MG provides a marginally bigger range (461 km), Nissan Leaf makes up for it with better torque delivery (340 Nm vs. 280 Nm), tried and tested reliability for 10 years of real world, and a brand backing that is trusted the world over. The Tata is cheaper but has less features and the driving experience is less amazing than Nissan. 

The Real Game-Changer

What makes the Nissan Leaf different is its fact-based history. This is not a science-fiction car or a technology still gaining market experience. The Leaf is the world’s most experienced and most thoroughly tested electric car, having been on sale since 2010. 

Image credit: Nissan

You’re not the guinea pig—you’re part of a community of millions of happy owners who have already discovered that electric driving isn’t just practical but it’s truly better. 

Conclusion

At ₹30 lakh, the Nissan Leaf is a step change in the way India looks at electric mobility. It’s practical for everyday use, easy to charge, packed with features, and supported by the reputation of a global brand. If you’re a green driver, fed up with rising fuel costs, or just curious about what the future holds for mobility, the Nissan Leaf deserves your attention. The electric revolution isn’t coming – it’s here, starting at ₹30 lakh.