January
7, 2003 -- Detroit, MI -- Toyota unveiled the FJ Cruiser
concept sport utility vehicle (SUV) at a press conference
today at the 2003 North American International Auto Show
(NAIAS).
The
FJ Cruiser concept was initiated and developed jointly by
Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., and Calty Design
Research, Toyota's North American design center in Newport
Beach, Calif. The FJ Cruiser was developed as a basic, capable
and affordable off-roader aimed to explore new possibilities
for a next-generation SUV aimed specifically at young buyers
with active outdoor lifestyles.
"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."
"The
FJ Cruiser takes on an authentic functional form, yet adopts
several styling cues from the original FJ," said
Jin Kim, the FJ Cruiser’s 25-year-old exterior designer.
"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.
Calty
designer William Chergosky extended the rugged and straightforward
theme to the interior. "The cabin is designed specifically
for basic functionality and flexible utility,"
said Chergosky.
"The
structural beam instrument panel has a sophisticated, handcrafted
appearance. The faceplate with round inset instrumentation
communicates precision youth market," said Press.
"The FJ Cruiser is a thoughtful approach to versatility
that allows the customer to decide how the vehicle fits
into their active lifestyles."
All
front and rear seats fold completely flat creating ample
cargo space and maximum usability. With no gaps and a durable
floor covering, the FJ Cruiser can be converted into a utility
deck large enough for two people in their sleeping bags.
"It
is important for Toyota to raise the emotional pulse of
the emerging youth market," said Press. "The FJ
Cruiser is a thoughtful approach to versatility that allows
the customer to decide how the vehicle fits into their active
lifestyles."
TOYOTA
FJ CRUISER CONCEPT SPECIFICATIONS
Millimeters Inches
Wheelbase 2700 106.3
Overall Length 4340 170.9
Overall Height 1828 72.0
Overall Width 1920 75.6
Tires...33
X 12.50 R20 inches
