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Click image for larger view The rear
cargo area is designed to fit every need, displaying a high level of
quality and refinement. A loading tray automatically extends when the
lower hatch is opened to assist in loading large and heavy objects.
"The FT-SX
is the emotional and powerful result of our exercise in defining a new
genre and potential product direction for Toyota," said Hunter. "Its
surprising utility, powerful design, innovative features, and luxurious
comfort create the passion necessary to fulfill the requirements of its
buyers in a fresh new way. In short, the FT-SX is a vehicle that
delivers the best of both worlds."
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"The FT-SX
concept was developed to explore a totally new genre to help create a
bolder, more decisive image for Toyota," said Don Esmond, senior vice
president and general manager, Toyota Division. "It is a concept aimed
at young families looking beyond the traditional passenger car or SUV
and boomers seeking a stylish and refined reward vehicle."
The FT-SX
concept was developed by Calty, Toyota's North American-based, research
and design center located in Newport Beach, CA and the TMS Advanced
Product Strategy Group. The team was assigned the task of creating a
vehicle combining the ride comfort, handling, and fuel efficiency of a
sedan with the utility, spaciousness and visibility of a car-based SUV.
The exterior
design concept of the FT-SX was the creation of 30-year-old Calty
designer, Ian Cartabiano, who also designed the all-new 2005 Toyota
Avalon. When undertaking the FT-SX project, Cartabiano envisioned a
powerful design that would create excitement for both young families and
empty-nest boomers, with a fresh styling identity for the Toyota brand.
The exterior
theme of the FT-SX is bold, simple and powerful. At more than 15 feet in
length, over six feet in width and over 5 feet in height, the FT-SX
delivers a stance that is both sleek and imposing.
The face of
the FT-SX is an all-new expression for Toyota. Defined by the alignment
of the headlamps, Toyota badging, and grille, the new "T-Face"
establishes a memorable design theme for Toyota's future. The headlamps
connect seamlessly with a bold new grille. Deep hood sculpting is
achieved with unbroken lines elegantly sweeping down from the upper edge
of the A-pillar, through the grille, and down the bumper, wrapping back
around the front wheels, giving the FT-SX a wide, dynamic image
presence.
The profile
of the FT-SX is long and sleek. A dramatic, arching roofline conveys
versatility, while a fast angle, "coupe inspired" greenhouse and
D-pillar suggest sporty performance. Clean and unadorned, the strength
of the modern profile flows from center to rear, tying in wide, sculpted
wheel well flares. Strong rocker character lines wrap around the entire
car, providing a look of stability. The beltline's unbroken, razor sharp
edge carries back to the exhaust.
In the rear,
the tail lamps sweep around the beltline to emphasize a wide, stable
stance. The FT-SX features a clean and taut surface accented by a full
width exhaust in the lower bumper. A smoothly integrated rear wing
extends from the belt line continuing the body side motion past the rear
glass.
The
innovative rear hatch offers three opening options. The upper glass
hatch pivots up; the lower hatch pivots down; and the glass roof has two
panels which slide towards the center, not only creating a useful
loading opening, but also doubling as a rear sunroof. The door handles
are subtly integrated into the beltline and open the clamshell doors at
the touch of a button. Deep, acrylic lamps house new LED technology to
provide a "surface-through" image. Two-piece detailed 21-inch wheels
provide a counterpoint to the clean body theme.
The inviting
interior was created by Calty designer Alberto Palma and exudes luxury,
comfort, utility, and practicality. The fresh look is achieved with
natural woods, soft leathers, and durable metals. The interior features
a new sense of space defined by a "60/60" feeling for the driver and
front passenger. This is achieved by overlapping seat elements that
create individual space giving each the impression his space is
dominant. A "flying speedboard" gauge cluster surrounds the driver with
a sleek, sporty design that (like the exterior) seamlessly flows into
the door and around the interior. The armrests are integrated into the
seats, eliminating clutter and creating a living-room effect.
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