Sources tell the Spies that the wicked cool Toyota FJ40 Land Cruiser concept will be officialy announced at the Chicago auto show.
What the others haven't told you that the Spies have found out, is that they will offer a hybrid version as well.
Photos are pics of the 2003 concept...
We first reported on it during our 2003 Detroit auto show coverage and picked it as our FAVORITE concept.
We urge you to run down to your Toyota dealer a put a deposit down on one because this will be one HOT SUV/Crossover!
Check out the info from the concept in 2003...we'll see how close the production model comes to it.
From our 2003 Detroit auto show issue:
Toyota Unveils FJ Cruiser Concept at North American International Auto Show
Toyota unveiled the FJ Cruiser concept sport utility vehicle (SUV) at a press conference 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 and ruggedness. The steering wheel and center-mounted shifter, and attached look door panels feature tool-like simplicity with an industrial feel. A portable remote GPS is removable for wilderness hiking."
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