April 07, 2011 | admin
Toyota’s new retro-styled FJ Cruiser, due for launch in March 2011, pays homage to the LandCruiser FJ40 of the 1960s which was known as the vehicle that could travel to and return from, any extreme environment.
The modern FJ has been designed with the same mind-set to appeal to serious off-road enthusiasts with its 200kW, 380Nm 4.0-litre petrol V6 engine, dual-range transfer case and large wheel articulation, as well as a comprehensive, modern safety package.
Key off-road attributes of Toyota’s FJ Cruiser attest to its ability to traverse rugged terrain and deliver full-scale off-road driving performance, having the best departure and break-over angles in the Toyota 4WD range – 31 and 29 degrees respectively. Its approach angle of 36 degrees is bettered only by the 70 Series.
The adoption of 17-inch wheels wrapped in Dunlop Grandtrek AT22 all-terrain rubber as Original Equipment and short overhangs – 865mm at the front and 1115mm at the rear – also contribute to the FJ Cruiser’s off-road prowess.
Glen Gall from The Gall Boys commented on it’s capabilities after a recent pre-launch test.
“I was fortunate to have the FJ for a week and was able to drive through a range of conditions, from the city traffic to the highway, and mud to the beach,” Glen said.
“Under the unique retro mix look of early and new Toyota is a vehicle with some pretty serious off-road capability, and along with the roomy feel inside, when driving it, I guess the most appropriate impression would be that it feels roomy, smooth and very well grounded.”
