Toyota FJ Press Release

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Some interesting info, some of it not covered in the "unveiling."
(Note it says it has a two part rear hatch with flip up glass, not sure how the do that with the spare positioned where it's at)

FJ press release


02/09/2005 Chicago, IL

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. 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.

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.

TOYOTA FJ CRUISER VEHICLE PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS


POWERTRAIN
4.0 Liter V6 – 245 hp /282 torque

5-speed automatic

Available 6-speed manual in 4x4

DIMENSIONS (inches)

Overall Length: 177.6

Overall Width: 74.6

Overall Height: 70.9

Wheelbase: 105.9

Ground Clearance: 9.6

Wheels: 17 inches black steel wheels w/full size spare
Available alloy wheels (5)

Tire Size: 265/70R17

Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs.

Seating Capacity: 5
 
39 pics of the production "model", from the Toyota Press room:
Pics here
 
Dare I pose this question for fear of getting the fawk flamed out of me, but here it is:

OUT OF THE BOX (as in off the showroom floor), is the FJ Cruiser in 2007 more off-road capable than a FJ-40 in 1982 due to the traction control and electric locking rear axle?

I know, BLASPHEMY!!!

Not saying I believe it to be, but just for discussion's sake.
 
You had to start that in MY thread! :D
 
six speed manual. interesting.
 
firetruck41 said:
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.

Fawk. They're even going to accomdate the posers.
 
firetruck41 said:
You had to start that in MY thread! :D

Haha... Sorry.

But with the OFFICIAL specifications above, and not the one's opined the days leading up to this, I figured this was a good place to start the discussion based on factual evidence.
 
I would say out-of-the-box this should be the most capable Cruiser except for maybe the 80-series with front and rear lockers from the factory (they were still an option remember, and not even 50% got them I don't believe).

As far as off-road use, I would guess this could easily be the best Cruiser (or possibly the best of ANY Toyota vehicle) for off-road use out-of-the-box.

Even compared to the locked 80-series (bone stock remember), this should weigh much less than that, will have a far higher power-to-weigh ratio, and probably have atleast 31" tires if not slightly larger. The 80-series got basically 31's, and was big and heavy with no-where near this much power. This one appears to have very good approach/departure angles, basically the same Tacoma stuff that works, and works well, but with less overhang...cool!

I'm quite proud actually and I like how Toyota keep saying it'll be low-cost. I don't really believe them, but I really hope it holds true, since I want to see Toyota lockup a large market share with smart engineering and quality vehicles...then, maybe, just maybe the American car companies will have to up their standards...but they probably won't, they'll just offer 0% financing and crap like that...

Cheers to Toyota!!
:cheers:
 
IMHO, the main reason they're developing a 4x2 model is to have a nice, low "starting" at price that sits about $2K under the 4x4 price.
 
I think you're right. They said the Tundra was going to start at $16. You couldn't get one at a dealer for that, but if you ordered one special with 0 options you could. Anything at a dealer was nearly twice that.

I dig it. I think it will outwheel a stock 40 easily. I would not be surprised if it outwheels an 80 in many situations.
 

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