Look familiar? You might be asking yourself why Toyota is displaying its 2003 Detroit show concept again at the 2005 Chicago show. It may have concept car looks, but this FJ Cruiser is the production vehicle that you'll be able to buy at your Toyota dealership in early 2006. The design remains remarkably true to the original concept--it even retains the triple windscreen wipers. Overall style is pure, simple, and functional, recalling the original FJ-40 Land Cruiser of 1960s.
The new FJ Cruiser, based on the trail-capable 4Runner, might give the original FJ Land Cruiser a run for its money over boulders. The FJ's engine is also snatched from the 4Runner; the 4.0-liter V-6 produces 245 horses and 282 lb-ft of torque. Like all Toyota SUVs, the FJ Cruiser beats most American SUVs on safety features with standard stability control and available side and head curtain airbags. With power, style, and off-road ability, the FJ will attract many would-be Jeep Wrangler and Liberty buyers. We're used to seeing wild concepts go from show floor to showroom when they wear Dodge and Chrysler badges, but this cool SUV is a shock from typically conservative Toyota.