2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser Preview

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Does it Live Up to Its FJ Pedigree?

Toyota unveiled its first retro vehicle this week at the Chicago Auto Show, but while pulling forward design cues from one of the most recognized SUVs of all time, the legendary Land Cruiser FJ40, the new four-wheeler offers a lot of modern attributes.

But the question that remains with 4x4 enthusiasts is whether the new FJ Cruiser will merely benefit from the original FJ40s good name for off-road prowess, or if it will also be capable off the beaten path?

To get the basic gist of just what the FJ Cruiser needs to live up to in order to satisfy such diehard Land Cruiser fans, its important to take a look down memory lane, or should I say memory logging road, at the vehicle that inspired the new design.

Don Esmond, senior vice president and general manager, Toyota Division, unveils the all-new Toyota FJ Cruiser sport utility vehicle at the 2005 Chicago Auto Show on Wednesday, February 9th. (Photo: Joe Wilssens, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A.)

Toyotas short wheelbase Jeep-like FJ all-terrain vehicle sold from late 1958 until production ended in 1983. Initially the Land Cruiser was Japans military conveyance, over-engineered to provide punishing service no matter the job at hand. Except for a tendency to attract rust, it was virtually unstoppable.

Toyotas short wheelbase Jeep-like FJ all-terrain vehicle sold from late 1958 until production ended in 1983. (Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A.) align="justify">The new FJ should be tough to beat off-road as well, due to its 4Runner SUV undercarriage and entry-model drivetrain, which is fittingly based on the Land Cruiser Prado SUV available in other markets. Thats right. This new FJ is no poser. It will run with the best of the FJ40s and BJ70s, the short-wheelbase Land Cruiser that followed, while being miles more civilized about the job at hand.

The concept and production model, which hardly

The concept and production model, which hardly differ externally, were designed at Newport Beach, Californias Calty Design Research, Toyotas North American design center. (Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A.)

differ externally, were designed at Newport Beach, Californias Calty Design Research, Toyotas North American design center, is targeting a younger market than what currently makes up the majority of the brands sales.

"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," commented Don Esmond, senior vice president and general manager,

Toyota is hoping young Scion buyers will find the new FJ Cruiser an enticing prospect. (Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A.)

Toyota Division, who introduced the production in Chicago. "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."

How important is this niche player in Toyotas overall plans? It could play a critical role in fact, at least according to a comment made by Esmond.

"We think this is the formula to move forward and draw buyers attracted to Scion into the Toyota brand," he stated.

Of course, the reality that a great many new Scion

The FJs 4.0-liter V6, pulled from the 4Runner and new Tacoma pickup truck, generates a soul stirring 245 horsepower and 282 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A.)

owners are retirees, attracted to the boxy xB because of its thrifty entry price, excellent fuel economy and impressive functionality, might dilute Esmonds statement, the fact is that those Scion customers who are younger, and there are many, should find the new FJ Cruiser an enticing prospect.

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