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Here is what I'd really like to replace that RAV-4 with:
What We Know: Looking nearly identical to the concept that appeared two
years ago, the 2007 FJ Cruiser incorporates several elements of Toyota's
original FJ-40 Land Cruiser first introduced in 1960. From its upright
windshield to its white-capped roof, this modern FJ has enough retro style
to make it recognizable without looking old. And that's good considering its
audience. "The FJ was designed to appeal to young male buyers who may have
never even seen the original FJ," said Jin Kim, senior creative designer at
Toyota's CALTY design studio in Newport Beach, California. "We didn't want
it to be too retro. It should be appealing even if the buyer has no idea
which aspects of its design are pulled from the original." Under the skin,
the FJ Cruiser is all 21st century as it incorporates a shortened version of
the 4Runner's frame and an all-aluminum 4.0-liter V6. With 245 horsepower
and 282 pound-feet of torque, the FJ should be one of the quicker sport-utes
in its class. A five-speed automatic transmission will be standard, but 4x4
models can be equipped with a six-speed manual. Off-road ability was the
hallmark of the original FJ and the 2007 version won't be any different. In
addition to its 9.6 inches of ground clearance, the FJ Cruiser will offer an
optional rear locking differential and four-wheel traction control on 4x4
models. "We considered the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon the benchmark for the FJ's
off-road performance," said Kim. A competent driver was about the only piece
of safety equipment in the original FJ, but the FJ Cruiser assures safety
for everybody with standard electronic stability and traction control,
four-wheel antilock disc brakes, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and
emergency brake assist. Additional safety items like side seat airbags in
front and full-length side curtain airbags are on the options list. Although
the FJ's interior has yet to be finalized, Kim assured us that like the
exterior, the interior will be faithful to the concept. "We kept all the
same themes so expect to see a very utilitarian cabin with a sharp-looking
instrument panel." Rear access doors give second-row passengers an easier
route to the backseat, and when you're not lugging your buddies around the
seat folds flat for plenty of cargo room. Not everything inside is a
throwback to the original '60s design, however, as every FJ comes standard
with air conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, six-speaker CD stereo and four
cupholders. Scroll down the options list and you'll find modern conveniences
like a rear parking sonar, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with satellite
audio controls, a comprehensive trip computer and a premium audio system
with a six-disc CD changer. The FJ Cruiser is set to go on sale in February
of next year at a price that Toyota promises will make it an outstanding
value. Figure low $20Ks and you're probably not far off.
Glen
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