Toyota unveiled the all-new
FJ Cruiser sport utility vehicle (SUV) at a press conference today at the
2005 Chicago Auto Show. The overwhelmingly positive response to the FJ
Cruiser concept, developed two years ago, prompted Toyota to launch a
production version of the SUV.
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The all-new
production model retains much of the design details of the original
concept.
"The FJ Cruiser
effectively fills a gap in the Toyota lineup which was once our core
heritage - capable, affordable and durable vehicles that are youthful,
fun-to-drive, aggressive and tough," said Don Esmond, senior vice
president and general manager, Toyota Division. "The FJ Cruiser will
deliver true off-road ruggedness, image and performance at a very low
price, making it highly accessible for a large volume of young buyers."
The final production
design of the FJ Cruiser was a joint project by Toyota Motor Corporation
and Calty Design Research, which developed the original concept vehicle
shown at the North American International Auto Show in 2003. Chiseled from
nearly a half-century tradition of tough off-road performance provided by
the legendary FJ 40, the original 4Runner, and 4x4 compact pickups, the FJ
Cruiser was developed as a basic, capable and affordable off-roader aimed
specifically at young buyers with active outdoor lifestyles.
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The FJ Cruiser takes
on an authentic functional form, yet adopts several styling cues from
the original FJ 40. Some of these cues are notable on the front end by
its wide grille with "Toyota" logo badging, round headlights, and
offset combination lamps. Additional inspiration can be found through
its upright windshield and white cap roof. Traits are also noticeable
in the rear with wrapping rear corner windows. The modern shape of the
FJ Cruiser is woven into a compact package set on a wide track,
producing enhanced stability and a powerful stance.
Utility features
include a two-part rear hatch with flip-up glass, black overfenders
with mudguards, and silver painted bumper extenders, mirrors, door
handles and skid plate. Easy rear passenger entry into the two-door
SUV is achieved with rear access doors.
Power is supplied by
a 4.0-liter V6 engine, generating 245 horsepower and 282 lb-ft. of
torque. The engine is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission
on both 4x2 and 4x4 configurations and an available six-speed manual
on 4x4 models.
The five-passenger FJ
Cruiser rides on a modified 4Runner platform and features 17-inch
steel wheels and four-wheel disc brakes. Just like all of the SUV’s in
Toyota's line-up, the FJ Cruiser will be equipped with the Star Safety
System which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and traction
control (TRAC), an anti-lock brake system (ABS) with electronic
brake-force distribution (EBD) and brake assist as standard. All 4x2
models will come with a standard automatic limited slip differential
(ALSD).
The tough and
straightforward theme of the FJ Cruiser is extended to the interior
with a cabin designed specifically for basic functionality and
flexible utility. The instrument panel features an exterior color
trim, adding to its sophisticated, handcrafted appearance. The
faceplate with round inset instrumentation communicates a mechanical
appearance. The steering wheel and center-mounted shifter, and
attached-look door panels feature tool-like simplicity. The rear seats
fold flat, creating ample cargo space and maximum usability.
The interior will be
equipped with an array of standard convenience features including air
conditioning, AM/FM CD audio with six speakers, tilt steering wheel, four
cupholders, passenger seat back pocket, and an upper dash-mounted
map/glove box.
Additional optional
equipment includes 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, rear differential lock,
electronic four-wheel traction control (on 4WD models only), running
boards, rear sonar backup assist, front seat-mounted side airbags and
front- and rear-side curtain airbags, daytime running lights, power
outside mirror with image lights, cruise control, AM/FM CD audio with a
six-disc changer, equalizer and eight speakers, leather-wrapped steering
wheel with audio controls, multi-information display, exterior color door
insert panels, privacy glass, and rear wiper.
"Toyota is responding to
the needs of a new generation of buyers with a modern interpretation of a
Toyota classic, combining Toyota heritage with the safety and refinement
requirements of today’s market," said Esmond.
The Toyota FJ Cruiser
will reach Toyota dealerships in early 2006.
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