January 8, 2003

Toyota unveils FJ Cruiser "affordable off-roader" concept

Detroit, Michigan - Toyota says its FJ Cruiser concept vehicle was developed as a basic and affordable off-roader aimed specifically at young buyers with active outdoor lifestyles.

Click image to enlarge

"The FJ Cruiser is a thoroughly modern concept vehicle chiseled from nearly a half-century tradition of rugged performance provided by the legendary FJ 40, the original 4Runner and 4x4 compact pickups," said Jim Press, executive vice president and COO for Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. "The FJ Cruiser concept effectively connects two growing markets in the United States…the light truck segment and the emerging youth market."

Jin Kim, the FJ Cruiser's 25-year-old exterior designer, said "The FJ Cruiser takes on an authentic functional form, yet adopts several styling cues from the original FJ. Some of these cues are notable on the front end by its wide and narrow grille, round headlights, and offset combination lamps. Additional inspiration can be found through its upright windshield and two-tone 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. Its proportionately long wheelbase and wide track produce enhanced stability and a powerful stance."

Utility features include spotlights on both outside mirrors, an asymmetrical front spotlight, and a front-end towing winch. The rear glass panel is a two-piece unit that retracts into the roof and the rear hatch for easy access to the rear cargo area. Easy rear passenger entry into the two-door SUV is achieved with rear access doors.

Power is supplied by a 3.4-liter V6 engine equipped with a Toyota Racing Development (TRD) supercharger that creates 250-horsepower. The engine is paired with a four-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel-drive with low range. The FJ Cruiser rides on a modified Tacoma pickup platform and is equipped with rear coil-over long travel suspension, 20-inch wheels and 33-inch tires, and a TRD cat-back exhaust.

The FJ Cruiser concept was designed at Calty Design Research, Toyota's North American design center in Newport Beach, California.

More news from the Detroit auto show
Main news page