Automotive
For Toyota Land Cruiser aficionados, the FJ nameplate carried significant historical weight, and the FJ Cruiser was meticulously crafted to honor that iconic lineage.
Debuting in 2011, the FJ Cruiser paid homage to the classic Toyota Land Cruiser FJ models from the 1970s and 1980s. This throwback design, characterized by its boxy silhouette, robust construction, and exceptional off-road prowess, set it apart from contemporary SUVs of the time – but its appeal extended far beyond mere aesthetics.
The design team expertly modernized the original FJ’s front-end styling, much like transforming a classic black-and-white film into a vibrant, updated version. Key design elements such as circular headlamps, a straight horizontal grille, and sharp wheel arch contours evoked memories of the legendary FJ40. The vertical windshield with its distinctive triple wipers and rounded greenhouse corners further emphasized the connection to its predecessor. The unique rear-hinged back doors, requiring front doors to be open for access, added to its retro charm.
The interior seamlessly continued the retro theme with analog gauges and large, easy-to-operate ventilation knobs. The design prioritized functionality, ensuring most controls could be operated while wearing work gloves – with the exception of steering wheel buttons. A nod to traditionalists, the gear selector and transfer case lever were positioned on the floor, eschewing modern push-button transmissions in favor of the classic manual levers favored by the brand’s loyalists.
Mechanically, the vehicle featured a robust ladder-frame chassis, complemented by an independent front suspension and a solid rear axle for a blend of durability and comfort. The vehicle offered various gear ratios tailored for rock crawling, with a rear locking differential included as standard with manual transmissions and available as an option for automatic models.
