Article
Toyota Unveils All-New FJ Cruiser Sport Utility Vehicle
Toyota Unveils All-New FJ Cruiser Sport Utility Vehicle
by: Jenny McLane
Responding to the clamor of a new generation of buyers with contemporary features of a Toyota classic, Toyota combines heritage, safety and refinement by unveiling the all-new FJ Cruiser sport utility vehicle (SUV) at the 2005 Chicago Auto Show.
The overwhelming positive response to the FJ Cruiser concept prodded Toyota to launch an all-new production model of the FJ Cruiser retaining design details of the original concept. Toyota's core heritage - - capable, affordable and durable vehicles that are youthful, fun-to-drive, aggressive and tough is filled by the FJ Cruiser delivering true off-road ruggedness, image and performance at a very low price.
Calty Design Research developed the original concept vehicle of the FJ Cruiser shown at the North American International Auto Show in 2003 born out of the tough off-road performance of legends like the FJ40, 4Runner and 4X4 pickups.
The FJ Cruiser is distinguished by a wide grille with "Toyota" logo badging, round headlights, and offset combination lamps, its upright windshield and white cap roof and the wrapping rear corner windows retained from the original FJ40. Enhanced stability and a powerful stance sums up the compact package of the fresh from assembly line FJ Cruiser.
A 4.0-liter V6 engine, generates 245 horsepower and 282 lb-ft. of torque supply power with a five-speed automatic transmission on both 4x2 and 4x4 configurations and an available six-speed manual on 4x4 models.
A cabin designed specifically for basic functionality and flexible utility blends well with the instrument panel with sophisticated, handcrafted appearance. The faceplate with round inset instrumentation exudes a mechanical appearance as well as its steering wheel and center-mounted shifter, and attached-look door panel's feature.
Utility features include a two-part rear hatch with flip-up glass, black over fenders 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.
An array of standard convenience features including air conditioning, AM/FM CD audio with six speakers, tilt steering wheel, four-cup holders, passenger seat back pocket, and an upper dash-mounted map/glove box also adorns the interior.
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).
Optional Amenities include17-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.
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| About The Author Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today. |