2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
By John Stewart
On Sale: Early 2006
Expected Pricing: $20,000-$26,000
With the demise of the FJ40 in 1983, the Land Cruiser evolved into a large luxury SUV, sold in small volumes at a premium price. But in 2006, Toyota will address a gap in their truck lineup by reverting to a core competency: the basic 4x4.
The 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser, expected in early 2006, will be a thoroughly modern four-wheel drive that deliberately replicates the FJ40, a military-tough, proven trail machine Toyota built its reputation on in the '60s.
The FJ Cruiser will be a contemporary FJ that marries the original capable, durable qualities with updated features and technology. Toyota expects the FJ Cruiser will appeal to a youthful buyer, and plans to price the FJ in a range accessible to a wide variety of young buyers with active lifestyles.
The modern FJ Cruiser retains design and styling cues from the original FJ40, such as the round front headlights, exterior rear tire carrier, upright windshield and white roof cap. The original "Toyota" badging on the front grille appears as it did when Toyota first entered the North American market, and the first colors are expected to include yellow, tan and light blue, as they did in the original.
Yet features such as three windshield wipers and rear quarter-panel access doors suggest Toyota will not hesitate to improve upon the heritage.
Built on a shortened 4Runner platform, the FJ Cruiser will be powered by a 4.0-liter V6 generating 245 horsepower and 282 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed automatic or six-speed manual will be available.
Like the 4Runner, the FJ Cruiser will have four-wheel disc brakes and the latest electronic dynamic systems, including Vehicle Stability Control, ABS and Traction Control. 4x4 models will offer a rear locking differential as optional equipment.
A rear sonar backup assist, front seat-mounted air bags and front and rear side curtain airbags and power outside mirrors are among the available options. A 4x2 model will also be available, with standard electronic limited slip.
Large, squared-off wheel wells house chunky 265/70R17 all-terrain tires on 17-inch alloy wheels, and the rear hatch has flip-up glass. Seating will be for five people; the rear seats will fold flat for enhanced utility. Unlike the original FJ40, there will be cupholders, tilt steering, and an AM/FM CD audio system with six speakers.
The final production version of the Toyota FJ Cruiser is expected to look very similar to the concept vehicle pictured here, which was unveiled at the 2005 Chicago Auto Show in February.
1-800-GO-TOYOTA
www.toyota.com
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