2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser Details
12-27-05, 07:53 AM
#1
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2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser Details
Text & photos courtesy Toyota Motor Co.
12-27-2005
The Result of Art, Technology and Heritage
Toyota advances both the art and science of the off-road vehicle while recalling its own off-road heritage with the introduction of the 2007 FJ Cruiser sport-utility vehicle (SUV), available in March 2006.
The FJ Cruiser offers a youthful, contemporary spirit and employs the same state-of-the-art comfort, power, economy, safety, emissions and convenience technology available in other Toyota vehicles. As it does so, it provides optimized off-road capabilities, value and styling clues reminiscent of Toyota's famed FJ40 4x4 utility vehicle, sold in the U.S. from 1960 to 1983. The FJ40, which during its production life served around the world as the safari and expedition vehicle of choice, remains a desirable and collectable off-road vehicle.
"The FJ Cruiser effectively fills a gap in the Toyota lineup that was once our core heritage – capable, affordable and durable vehicles that are youthful, fun to drive, aggressive and tough," said Jim Lentz, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division. "The FJ Cruiser will deliver true off-road ruggedness, image and performance at an affordable price, making it highly accessible and desirable to a large volume of young buyers."
The five-passenger FJ Cruiser was designed as a concept vehicle at Calty Design Research in Newport Beach, Calif. It was first seen at Detroit's North American International Automobile Show in 2003. Public and media reaction to the FJ Cruiser concept was so positive that the vehicle was slated for production using most of the same design parameters as the original concept. As an indicator of the vehicle's unmistakable family DNA, several of the FJ Cruiser's available color choices are reminiscent of the colors found on FJ40s.
Chassis and Suspension
The FJ Cruiser's tough, wide stance is based around a frame and front-and-rear suspension systems adapted from those found on the 120-Series Prado (Land Cruiser Prado in some markets). The frame is a boxed steel ladder-braced unit to which is mounted the FJ Cruiser's welded steel body. Independent front suspension, which offers a generous 7.87 inches of wheel travel for outstanding suspension articulation, is via double wishbones, the geometry of which is adapted for superior road feel and ride comfort. Tubular shock absorbers and an anti-sway bar also are employed.
A solid rear axle using a four-link coil-spring suspension system with a lateral rod, tubular shock absorbers and an anti-sway bar is employed. This system provides 9.1 inches of wheel travel. All 4x2 FJ Cruisers come standard with a virtual automatic limited-slip differential, provided and operated by an advanced traction-control system to enhance traction of both rear wheels in slippery driving conditions. An electronic locking rear differential with an eight-inch ring gear is available. The ring gear in the front differential of the 4x4 FJ Cruiser also measures eight inches. The front/rear differential gear ratio is 3.727:1 (5 A/T) and 3.909:1 (6 M/T). Finally, the disc-brake system uses ventilated 12.6-inch/front and 12.3-inch/rear rotors.
Steering is provided by a variable-ratio, hydraulically assisted rack-and-pinion system. Wheels are standard 17-inch steel, optional 17-inch, six-spoke aluminum. With the FJ Cruiser's standard 32-inch tires, ground clearance is a healthy 9.6 inches, 8.7 inches for 4x2. Approach and departure angles are 34 degrees/30 degrees for the 4x4 FJ Cruiser and 32/29 for the 4x2 version.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is 5330 (4x2) and 5570 (4x4), and maximum towing capacity with the optional Class Four receiver hitch is 5,000 pounds.
Engine and Transmissions
The FJ Cruiser is powered by a high-compression 4.0L (242.1 c.i.) V6 engine, a 24-valve, double-overhead-cam (DOHC) unit that produces 239 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque – nearly double the numbers produced by the six-cylinder engine of the FJ40. Many special engineering touches help make this engine a model of efficiency, power and smoothness. These include Toyota's Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) system; special lightweight pistons with resin-coated skirts to help reduce friction and noise; a two-stage, variable-length intake manifold, which improves mid-range to high-speed performance; newly designed 12-orifice fuel injectors; Toyota's Direct Ignition System (DIS), which eliminates the distributor and its associated wiring; and a lightweight electronic throttle. The EPA lists the FJ Cruiser's city/highway fuel-economy ratings at 18/22 mpg (4x2) and 17/21 mpg (4x4 automatic).
The quietness of the engine's operation comes in part because of special sound-absorbing material present under the engine cover. Its pleasing exhaust note, meanwhile, is shaped by a specially designed exhaust system that provides for efficient elimination of exhaust gasses with minimal backpressure. The FJ Cruiser's dual catalytic converters and its sophisticated fuel-delivery system help it meet the stringent LEV II/Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions standards.
A choice between an electronically shifted five-speed automatic transmission and a six-speed manual transmission is available for 4x4 models of the FJ Cruiser. (The 4x2 model of the FJ Cruiser is available only with a 5-speed automatic transmission.) The automatic transmission features Artificial Intelligence (AI) Shift Control, a system that automatically varies the transmission's shifting pattern based on road conditions and the driver's intent to provide optimal up- and down-shifting. It also employs Toyota's Flex Lock-Up Control, which is added to the basic locking torque converter.
Flex Lock-Up allows the clutch in the torque converter to maintain a half-engaged position, enhancing fuel efficiency and increasing the lock-up clutch's operation range. Of this transmission's five forward gear ratios, fourth gear is direct 1:1 and fifth gear is an overdrive 0.716:1.
This transmission is shifted via a sporty console-mounted, gate-type shift lever. In addition to being displayed on the shifter gate, shifter position also is displayed in the instrument panel.
The six-speed manual transmission is designed for lightness and shifting ease. Of this transmission's six forward gear ratios, fifth gear is a direct 1:1 and sixth gear is an overdrive 0.799:1. The shift pattern is the standard three-plane double-H, with Reverse in an additional plane to the far left and up.
The two-speed transfer case used in the 4x4 FJ Cruiser is the essential link that routes power from the engine through the transmission and to the front and rear axles. In standard-transmission models, it is the same full-time four-wheel-drive transfer case used in the V6-powered 4x4 4Runner. This transfer case features a Torsen limited-slip center differential with a locking feature and distributes the engine's power 40-percent/front and 60-percent/rear in most driving conditions. It changes this distribution percentage as needed, based on steering angle and wheel slippage. When locked, it distributes power, front to rear, on a 50/50 basis. The system helps make the FJ Cruiser less prone to tire slippage caused by changes in road conditions.
With automatic-transmission models, FJ Cruiser gets a part-time transfer case. When the transfer cases are in high range, their output ratio is 1:1. When shifted into low range, their gear ratio is 2.566:1. With the automatic transmission, the FJ Cruiser's crawl ratio is 33.76:1. With the manual transmission, the crawl ratio is 41.84:1, a fact that helped the FJ Cruiser traverse California's famed Rubicon Trail last September.
Comfort/Interior
The FJ Cruiser's interior features a dash that is bordered by upper and lower tubular forms, which frame rectangular-shaped flat panels. Control ***** are large enough to provide easy grip, even when wearing gloves, and switches for critical functions, including HVAC, audio controls and the optional locking rear differential, are mounted in the center dash panel within easy reach of the driver. With the optional upgrade packages, the front interior door panels are color-keyed to the exterior color.
A standard full gauge package, including speedometer, tachometer, amp meter, temperature gauge and fuel gauge, uses round, black-on-white dials and gauges for enhanced visibility. Warning lights monitor other functions, and an oil-
maintenance indicator notifies the driver when the FJ Cruiser's engine oil is due
to be changed.
Seating is especially adaptable in the FJ Cruiser. The driver's seat is adjustable in eight ways to help drivers of all sizes and shapes find their most comfortable driving positions. The passenger seat is adjustable in four ways. The rear seat is split 60/40, with folding (removable) bottom and back cushions that convert to a nearly flat cargo floor. Additionally, for 4x4 enthusiasts with young families, the FJ Cruiser uses Toyota's LATCH child-restraint system.
Because the FJ Cruiser is optimized for dusty, muddy driving environments, easy cleaning and maintenance are important elements of its interior. Seating materials are not only water-repellant, but also provide excellent ventilation. Seats are covered with a fabric backed by a special breathable resin coating to enhance the material's ability to shed liquids so that seats can easily be wiped down and cleaned. Even the stitched seams of the seat covers are treated with sealant to prevent liquids from penetrating the seams. Also as an aid to easy cleaning, the FJ Cruiser's floor surfaces are covered with an attractive gray rubber-like material.
Design and Styling
Design features that hint at the FJ Cruiser's heritage are its front grille, which ties its two round, five-inch headlights together in much the same way the FJ40's headlights and grille were integrated; its hood and fender contours; and a rear-mounted and exposed full-size spare tire with an off-center license-plate-mounting location. Additionally, the FJ Cruiser employs a white roof cap and wrap-around rear side windows, which were FJ40 signatures.
The FJ Cruiser uses two main doors – one per side – but unlike anything ever seen on an FJ40, it also uses two access doors that open 90 degrees in clamshell fashion for easy rear-seat ingress and egress. Additionally, a swing-up glass hatch is incorporated into the side-hinged rear door. This opens independently of the rear door and helps accommodate longer items such as lumber or surfboards while keeping the rear door closed.
Wheel arches are angular and open to provide maximum clearance for the FJ Cruiser's large 32-inch tires at full suspension deflection. The arches are edged by flexible fender flares that resist damage during vigorous off-roading – and also resist damage from the doors of the vehicles beside which the FJ Cruiser might find itself parked during urban and suburban expeditions.
Safety
Dual-stage front driver and passenger advanced airbags are standard with the FJ Cruiser. Two rows of side-curtain airbags, as well as driver and front-passenger seat-mounted side airbags, are available as options.
As with all other Toyota SUVs, the FJ Cruiser is equipped with Toyota's Star Safety System. This includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), an Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist.
Four-channel, four-sensor ABS helps prevent the wheels from locking under hard braking, while EBD distributes appropriate braking force between the front and rear wheels according to driving conditions. The traction-control system (TRAC) helps reduce tire slippage during slippery or challenging driving conditions, and the VSC system helps keep the FJ Cruiser on the driver's intended course by detecting front- and/or rear-wheel slide during cornering and attempting to control slide conditions via torque intervention and/or braking of individual wheels.
Interesting Details
A number of interesting and unusual features mark the thoughtfulness with which the FJ Cruiser was conceived and designed. For example, instead of the usual pair of front windshield-wiper arms, the FJ Cruiser uses three wiper arms to provide nearly complete coverage of the vehicle's wide windshield. Diffusion-type nozzles are used in the washing assembly to provide superior washing performance. The same type of diffusion nozzle is used on the rear-window washer.
As an aid to driver and front-passenger comfort, the floor angle in the footwell is set at 33 degrees to help those in the front seats maintain proper seating position.
The rear cargo area is equipped with cargo-net hooks, multipurpose grocery-bag hooks and sturdy, floor-mounted cargo tie-down anchor points. An AC115-volt 100/400-watt accessory connector socket is available.
Standard Features and Options
The 2007 FJ Cruiser is available in both two- and four-wheel drive andcomes with a long list of standard features. These include 17-inch black steel wheels with P265/70R17 tires, air conditioning, power windows and door locks, black water-resistant seats, a tilt steering wheel, four cup holders and two bottle holders, rear-window defogger; engine, transfer-case and fuel-tank skid plates; rear-door-mounted fullsize spare, tow hooks front and rear; and mudguards.
Three audio systems are available in the FJ Cruiser. An AM/FM/CD system with six speakers is standard. A Premium Audio FJammer AM/FM eight-speaker system that incorporates an in-dash six-disc CD changer is available as an option. Finally, the same FJammer Premium Audio system is available with a ninth speaker – a 7.9-inch subwoofer, powered by its own dedicated amplifier, incorporated into the right-rear panel of the rear cargo compartment. An on/off switch for the sub-woofer is located in the dash's lower-center switch cluster. An auxiliary jack also is located in the lower-center switch cluster to provide input for portable audio devices – i.e., MP3-like devices - and a 12-volt DC accessory socket is provided to power those devices.
The FJ Cruiser is equipped with a pair of NXT SurfaceSound transducers, which convert the vehicle's ceiling into a speaker diaphragm. It marks the first time this technology has been used in a motor vehicle. The result complements the conventional speakers elsewhere in the vehicle, creating a broad, omni-directional dispersion of sound.
Buyers can personalize the FJ Cruiser by selecting one or more of the following packages. A Convenience Package includes keyless entry, cruise control, power side-view mirrors with image lights, daytime running lights, privacy glass, rear window wiper; and rear parking sonar.
Upgrade Package One, which requires the Convenience Package, includes the following: A highly capable active offroad traction-control system, rear locking differential, multi-information display (compass, inclinometer and temperature gauge); Premium Audio system with in-dash six-disc changer, equalizer and eight speakers; 400-watt inverter, 17-inch alloy wheels, leather-trimmed covered steering wheel with integral audio controls and cruise-control function, metal-colored shift lever, and interior door-trim inserts keyed to the vehicle's exterior color.
Upgrade Package Two, which requires the Convenience Package and includes the content of Upgrade Package One plus the rear subwoofer.
FJ Cruiser separate options include side and curtain airbags; 17-inch alloy wheels, rear locking differential, and running boards.
Other available accessories include auxiliary driving lights, rock rails, roof rack, brush guard, taillight guards, sport exhaust system, receiver hitch and harness, wind deflector with off-road lights, a cargo mat and all-weather or carpeted floor mats.
Color choices for the FJ Cruiser include Titanium Metallic, Black Diamond, Black Cherry, Sun Fusion and Voodoo Blue.
Warranty
The 2007 FJ Cruiser is covered by Toyota's 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty and applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion perforation with no mileage limitation.
More pics HERE
12-27-05, 10:51 AM
#5
Speaks French in Russian
Edmunds Full Review
Full Test: 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser (edmunds.com)
A new cruiser for the kids
By Karl Brauer Email
If your first thought when gazing at the 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser is something along the lines of, "Oh great, another retro vehicle," you're not alone. Between the Volkswagen "New" Beetle, Mini Cooper, Ford Mustang and recently unveiled Dodge Challenger, it could be argued that automakers have run out of new ideas and are simply living off their past glory.
But there's a flaw in that line of thinking. Simply put, Toyota is having plenty of success with its current SUV lineup. Even the company's oldest off-road design, the Land Cruiser, continues to win awards and accolades, including Edmunds' 2006 Most Wanted SUV over $45,000. So unlike the companies building those other retro vehicles, Toyota doesn't need the FJ Cruiser to revive interest in the brand. In fact, the original FJ concept vehicle was designed at Toyota's Calty Design Research center in Newport Beach, California, and shown at the 2003 Detroit Auto Show as a pure concept study, with no serious plans for production.
However, with consumers doing cartwheels around the FJ Cruiser's show stand, and the automotive press writing rave reviews, Toyota decided to put it into production six months after the concept debuted. The first prototype was built on a modified Prado (4Runner/GX 470) platform in the summer of 2004, and the final production models will be in dealerships by March 2006.
The "go" to match its retro
And while the FJ Cruiser's lineage is long ("FJ" has been the Land Cruiser's internal vehicle code name for over 50 years ago), Toyota's vice president of marketing, Jim Farley, has dubbed the 2007 version "…the most distinctive and capable 4x4 in the Toyota lineup." That's quite a statement from the company building the existing Land Cruiser and 4Runner. Farley adds that the FJ Cruiser not only moves the Land Cruiser tradition forward, but does so at a starting price below $25,000 (exact pricing has yet to be announced), making it available to a far wider range of buyers.
To avoid the poseur label that could have easily befallen a new SUV wearing the "FJ" badge, Toyota has outfitted the FJ with a choice of two 4x4 systems, two transmissions and two types of locking differentials. The base model offers two-wheel drive and a five-speed automatic, and in the "Pre-Runner" spirit even two-wheel-drive models can be had with an electric locking rear differential. They also come with a standard automatic limited-slip differential (Auto LSD) that reads the relative speed of the rear-drive wheels and attempts to match them (this feature can be disabled by a switch on the dash).
But Toyota expects over 90 percent of FJs sold in the first year (with a production run of around 46,000 units) to be 4x4 models. The same five-speed automatic is available on 4x4 FJ Cruisers, as is a six-speed manual that includes a clutch start cancel feature. This allows you to start the engine without depressing the clutch, which can be a lifesaver when you've stalled on a steep incline and would rather not dance between the brake and clutch pedal as the vehicle rolls uncontrollably down a hill.
Automatic models come with a transfer case that can be driven in 2-Hi, 4-Hi and 4-Lo mode. Manual models are always in four-wheel drive, with the transfer case offering 4-Hi, 4-Hi with locked differential and 4-Lo with locked differential. This model uses a Torsen limited-slip center differential with a static 40-60 torque split between the front and rear axles. However, up to 70 percent of power can be sent to the rear wheels, and up to 53 percent to the front wheels, depending on available traction at each end.
Regardless of tranny and driveline configuration you get the same Toyota aluminum block 4.0-liter, 60-degree V6 engine from the Tacoma, Tundra and 4Runner. With dual-overhead cams, 24 valves and VVT-i technology, the engine manages 239 horsepower at 5,200 rpm, and 278 pound-feet of torque at 3,700 rpm. Note that both numbers are based on 91-octane fuel, which isn't required but is recommended.
Preliminary mileage numbers are 18/22 for the automatic 4x2, 16/19 for the 4x4 with manual transmission and 17/21 for the 4x4 automatic. All models offer a 5,000-pound towing capacity, and our automatic 4x4 test vehicle got to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds. Not flying, but neither does it feel slow in normal, everyday driving.
Not your soccer mom's SUV
With those mileage figures, along with its premium fuel recommendation, the FJ Cruiser may not be as popular with suburban moms as SUVs were in the days of sub-$2-a-gallon gasoline. Throw in a nearly inaccessible rear seat, even when utilizing the small reverse-opening rear doors, and you have a rather inhospitable vehicle for soccer practice drop-offs or local mall runs.
Yet Toyota isn't worried, as the automaker is sincere when it says the vehicle is designed for young (and kudos to Toyota for not saying "the young at heart") single males who can appreciate the FJ's extreme off-road capabilities. Beyond the two-speed transfer case, available locking differential and 17-inch wheels wearing 32-inch tires, all 4x4 models offer 9.6 inches of ground clearance, 34-degree approach and 30-degree departure angles and a 27.4-degree break-over angle. Skid plates for the engine, transfer case and fuel tank, along with 8 and 9 inches of front and rear suspension travel, respectively, would certainly go to waste on Rodeo Drive (though we're sure at least a few will end up there, nonetheless).
We personally tested all of these items in some of the most aggressive off-road driving we've yet experienced. The articulation of the double A-arm front suspension and four-link rear suspension was truly amazing to behold (whether riding in the cabin or watching from outside). Our test car also had Toyota's optional A-TRAC system, which can be activated with a switch on the dash and offers much of the same effect as a locking differential — without any binding during tight turns at low speeds. In the months leading up to the FJ Cruiser's launch in March you'll hear much ado about the vehicle's off-road prowess. It may come off as hype, but trust us when we tell you — it isn't.
Prowess has a price
With the FJ Cruiser hopping rough terrain like a frightened gazelle, you might expect on-road driving dynamics akin to a wounded ostrich. But if you've experienced any of the current-generation Land Cruisers, you know Toyota expects more from even its most capable boulder bashers. The FJ, like the Land Cruiser, is a highly affable mode of transport, even if you never go off-road. Seat comfort is superb, with supportive bolsters and a soft yet durable cloth. And despite its breadbox design there is little wind noise at speeds above 50 mph.
Steering response and braking confidence (it stopped from 60 mph in 126 feet) are also on par with even the most carlike SUVs currently available. Slalom speed was a mediocre 56 mph, but that's more a reflection of Toyota's overly aggressive stability control system than the FJ's lack of handling prowess, as it's really quite good — for a 4,300-pound SUV.
But as already mentioned, don't look to the FJ as your minivan replacement. While second-row seating is spacious enough, getting into those seats requires both a high step-up and a contortionist dance, even with the rear doors open. And rear visibility is tanklike because of the wide C-pillar and tiny corner window that proves as effective as a solar-powered flashlight. We should further point out that front visibility also takes a hit due to the high hood line, making both parking maneuvers and off-road obstacle-spotting a tricky prospect.
We do approve of the interior design, which stays true to the original FJ philosophy by being straightforward and functional rather than overly stylized and littered with gimmicks (OK, the inclinomoter in the optional dash-top gauge cluster may be a little cheesy). We do wish Toyota (along with Acura and Jaguar) would lose the bulky gated shifter design, and the color-matched center stack may not work for everyone. But kudos to them for supplying an MP3 auxiliary input on even the base audio system, and for offering an optional power outlet package with a 115-volt, three-prong A/C outlet in the cargo area.
More to come
There's already talk of a "Moab" special-edition model that will feature the talents of Toyota's in-house tuner division, TRD. Beyond that there will be a full line of accessories covering everything from roof racks to rock rails to locking storage boxes and a removable Garmin "Quest 2" navigation unit. And that's just from Toyota. More than 60 aftermarket companies have already been given full access to preproduction FJ Cruisers, and you can bet they are all hard at work on their own lines of baubles and bolt-ons.
One thing's for sure, if Toyota only produces 46,000 in the first year and the price starts at less than $25,000, there will be more demand than supply, which will inevitably mean dealer markups and eBay auctions.
So, from that perspective, the FJ will be just like every other retro vehicle of the last decade.
By Karl Brauer Email
If your first thought when gazing at the 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser is something along the lines of, "Oh great, another retro vehicle," you're not alone. Between the Volkswagen "New" Beetle, Mini Cooper, Ford Mustang and recently unveiled Dodge Challenger, it could be argued that automakers have run out of new ideas and are simply living off their past glory.
But there's a flaw in that line of thinking. Simply put, Toyota is having plenty of success with its current SUV lineup. Even the company's oldest off-road design, the Land Cruiser, continues to win awards and accolades, including Edmunds' 2006 Most Wanted SUV over $45,000. So unlike the companies building those other retro vehicles, Toyota doesn't need the FJ Cruiser to revive interest in the brand. In fact, the original FJ concept vehicle was designed at Toyota's Calty Design Research center in Newport Beach, California, and shown at the 2003 Detroit Auto Show as a pure concept study, with no serious plans for production.
However, with consumers doing cartwheels around the FJ Cruiser's show stand, and the automotive press writing rave reviews, Toyota decided to put it into production six months after the concept debuted. The first prototype was built on a modified Prado (4Runner/GX 470) platform in the summer of 2004, and the final production models will be in dealerships by March 2006.
The "go" to match its retro
And while the FJ Cruiser's lineage is long ("FJ" has been the Land Cruiser's internal vehicle code name for over 50 years ago), Toyota's vice president of marketing, Jim Farley, has dubbed the 2007 version "…the most distinctive and capable 4x4 in the Toyota lineup." That's quite a statement from the company building the existing Land Cruiser and 4Runner. Farley adds that the FJ Cruiser not only moves the Land Cruiser tradition forward, but does so at a starting price below $25,000 (exact pricing has yet to be announced), making it available to a far wider range of buyers.
To avoid the poseur label that could have easily befallen a new SUV wearing the "FJ" badge, Toyota has outfitted the FJ with a choice of two 4x4 systems, two transmissions and two types of locking differentials. The base model offers two-wheel drive and a five-speed automatic, and in the "Pre-Runner" spirit even two-wheel-drive models can be had with an electric locking rear differential. They also come with a standard automatic limited-slip differential (Auto LSD) that reads the relative speed of the rear-drive wheels and attempts to match them (this feature can be disabled by a switch on the dash).
But Toyota expects over 90 percent of FJs sold in the first year (with a production run of around 46,000 units) to be 4x4 models. The same five-speed automatic is available on 4x4 FJ Cruisers, as is a six-speed manual that includes a clutch start cancel feature. This allows you to start the engine without depressing the clutch, which can be a lifesaver when you've stalled on a steep incline and would rather not dance between the brake and clutch pedal as the vehicle rolls uncontrollably down a hill.
Automatic models come with a transfer case that can be driven in 2-Hi, 4-Hi and 4-Lo mode. Manual models are always in four-wheel drive, with the transfer case offering 4-Hi, 4-Hi with locked differential and 4-Lo with locked differential. This model uses a Torsen limited-slip center differential with a static 40-60 torque split between the front and rear axles. However, up to 70 percent of power can be sent to the rear wheels, and up to 53 percent to the front wheels, depending on available traction at each end.
Regardless of tranny and driveline configuration you get the same Toyota aluminum block 4.0-liter, 60-degree V6 engine from the Tacoma, Tundra and 4Runner. With dual-overhead cams, 24 valves and VVT-i technology, the engine manages 239 horsepower at 5,200 rpm, and 278 pound-feet of torque at 3,700 rpm. Note that both numbers are based on 91-octane fuel, which isn't required but is recommended.
Preliminary mileage numbers are 18/22 for the automatic 4x2, 16/19 for the 4x4 with manual transmission and 17/21 for the 4x4 automatic. All models offer a 5,000-pound towing capacity, and our automatic 4x4 test vehicle got to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds. Not flying, but neither does it feel slow in normal, everyday driving.
Not your soccer mom's SUV
With those mileage figures, along with its premium fuel recommendation, the FJ Cruiser may not be as popular with suburban moms as SUVs were in the days of sub-$2-a-gallon gasoline. Throw in a nearly inaccessible rear seat, even when utilizing the small reverse-opening rear doors, and you have a rather inhospitable vehicle for soccer practice drop-offs or local mall runs.
Yet Toyota isn't worried, as the automaker is sincere when it says the vehicle is designed for young (and kudos to Toyota for not saying "the young at heart") single males who can appreciate the FJ's extreme off-road capabilities. Beyond the two-speed transfer case, available locking differential and 17-inch wheels wearing 32-inch tires, all 4x4 models offer 9.6 inches of ground clearance, 34-degree approach and 30-degree departure angles and a 27.4-degree break-over angle. Skid plates for the engine, transfer case and fuel tank, along with 8 and 9 inches of front and rear suspension travel, respectively, would certainly go to waste on Rodeo Drive (though we're sure at least a few will end up there, nonetheless).
We personally tested all of these items in some of the most aggressive off-road driving we've yet experienced. The articulation of the double A-arm front suspension and four-link rear suspension was truly amazing to behold (whether riding in the cabin or watching from outside). Our test car also had Toyota's optional A-TRAC system, which can be activated with a switch on the dash and offers much of the same effect as a locking differential — without any binding during tight turns at low speeds. In the months leading up to the FJ Cruiser's launch in March you'll hear much ado about the vehicle's off-road prowess. It may come off as hype, but trust us when we tell you — it isn't.
Prowess has a price
With the FJ Cruiser hopping rough terrain like a frightened gazelle, you might expect on-road driving dynamics akin to a wounded ostrich. But if you've experienced any of the current-generation Land Cruisers, you know Toyota expects more from even its most capable boulder bashers. The FJ, like the Land Cruiser, is a highly affable mode of transport, even if you never go off-road. Seat comfort is superb, with supportive bolsters and a soft yet durable cloth. And despite its breadbox design there is little wind noise at speeds above 50 mph.
Steering response and braking confidence (it stopped from 60 mph in 126 feet) are also on par with even the most carlike SUVs currently available. Slalom speed was a mediocre 56 mph, but that's more a reflection of Toyota's overly aggressive stability control system than the FJ's lack of handling prowess, as it's really quite good — for a 4,300-pound SUV.
But as already mentioned, don't look to the FJ as your minivan replacement. While second-row seating is spacious enough, getting into those seats requires both a high step-up and a contortionist dance, even with the rear doors open. And rear visibility is tanklike because of the wide C-pillar and tiny corner window that proves as effective as a solar-powered flashlight. We should further point out that front visibility also takes a hit due to the high hood line, making both parking maneuvers and off-road obstacle-spotting a tricky prospect.
We do approve of the interior design, which stays true to the original FJ philosophy by being straightforward and functional rather than overly stylized and littered with gimmicks (OK, the inclinomoter in the optional dash-top gauge cluster may be a little cheesy). We do wish Toyota (along with Acura and Jaguar) would lose the bulky gated shifter design, and the color-matched center stack may not work for everyone. But kudos to them for supplying an MP3 auxiliary input on even the base audio system, and for offering an optional power outlet package with a 115-volt, three-prong A/C outlet in the cargo area.
More to come
There's already talk of a "Moab" special-edition model that will feature the talents of Toyota's in-house tuner division, TRD. Beyond that there will be a full line of accessories covering everything from roof racks to rock rails to locking storage boxes and a removable Garmin "Quest 2" navigation unit. And that's just from Toyota. More than 60 aftermarket companies have already been given full access to preproduction FJ Cruisers, and you can bet they are all hard at work on their own lines of baubles and bolt-ons.
One thing's for sure, if Toyota only produces 46,000 in the first year and the price starts at less than $25,000, there will be more demand than supply, which will inevitably mean dealer markups and eBay auctions.
So, from that perspective, the FJ will be just like every other retro vehicle of the last decade.
Last edited by magneto112; 12-27-05 at 10:55 AM.
12-27-05, 11:48 AM
#6
Finally, this is the first time I saw interior pics of the FJ. Nice and clean: very rugged techy looking. What's up with the portable(?) nav system? I liked the concept version with the exposed pipes for air/heat, but it's now hidden in this layout. And look at the interior space! Could possible fit an ATV inside!
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12-27-05, 04:38 PM
#9
Originally Posted by mmarshall
GOOD quality pictures, Amethy. 
This vehicle is going to be an obvious Jeep Competitor....and will probably be popular in the Third World.
This vehicle is going to be an obvious Jeep Competitor....and will probably be popular in the Third World.
12-27-05, 06:53 PM
#11
Edmunds like it a lot:
http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do...ine.promo.1g.*
- good on road
- awesome off road
- hard to get to 2nd row, lots of space once in
- really good audio system
- all together, waiting lines and ebay auctions predicted...
http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do...ine.promo.1g.*
- good on road
- awesome off road
- hard to get to 2nd row, lots of space once in
- really good audio system
- all together, waiting lines and ebay auctions predicted...
01-20-06, 07:20 AM
#12
Super Moderator
Thread Starter
Toyota’s New FJ Cruiser
by Hans G. Lehmann
Copyright by Lehmann Photo-Syndication
edited 01-20-2006
On the Road
Here are some photos showing Toyota’s all New FJ Cruiser, details of which have just been revealed by the manufacturer, during final cold weather testing on icy roads in North America. The FJ Cruiser is set to hit the showrooms in the US this spring.
Among the test cars the engineers had also a prototype of the new Lexus LS460.
source : japanesecarfans
01-20-06, 09:13 PM
#15
Lexus Fanatic
iTrader: (20)
Yes that's a white roof. Not so great. Like Honda which now finally offers the Element in monochrome now instead of the any color plus gray, Toyota may have to do the same.
Cool vehicle - probably should be a Scion given its likely target audience.
Couple of issues I have with it though - don't like the rear reverse doors - no factory nav? (I don't want a tiny removable portable one) - and that fuel economy is pretty weak barely any different to a Ford Explorer.
If it had regular rear doors and factory nav I'd be interested.
Cool vehicle - probably should be a Scion given its likely target audience.
Couple of issues I have with it though - don't like the rear reverse doors - no factory nav? (I don't want a tiny removable portable one) - and that fuel economy is pretty weak barely any different to a Ford Explorer.
If it had regular rear doors and factory nav I'd be interested.