Is Toyota's FT-4X an FJ Cruiser for a New Generation?
The departed Toyota FJ Cruiser was a vehicle of contrasts, depending on who you talked to. Too big, or not big enough. Too refined, or too often used as a grocery getter. Too retro, or not retro enough.
An homage to its long-dead predecessor, the retro SUV defined “niche vehicle,” and it sold like one too. Not in huge numbers, but in consistent ones. When Toyota phased it out of the North American market after 2014, it left a vacuum that went unnoticed by most.
Is Toyota now planning to fill that void?
According to AutoGuide, the automaker has filed a trademark application for the “FT-4X” name, signifying a “future Toyota.”
Dated October 10, the filing stirs hope in FJ Cruiser fans that Toyota plans to return with a new model that’s a little edgier than its current crossover and SUV lineup. Unless something’s changed in the automotive lexicon, “4X” implies a four-wheel-drive model with a penchant for offroading.
Toyota keeps its naming of future vehicles fairly simple. The Toyota FT-86 concept eventually became the Toyota 86, so there’s reason to take those last two digits seriously … and literally.
If Toyota is indeed planning a brawny utility vehicle to replace the FJ Cruiser, there hasn’t been any talk of it. This trademark application could be the first whisper. Let’s hope if or when it does appear, Toyota tames its ingrained desire to play it safe in the styling department. And bring back the clamshell doors, please.
[Image: Toyota]
More by Steph Willems
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For me it's unforgivable how cramped it seems inside considering how big it looks.
Just build me something akin to an FJ60 that doesn't rust and I'll buy. The real Land Cruiser has left its roots behind. I'll take mine in freeborn red please.
I have a neighbor who has owned one for at least six years and uses it as a daily driver. For all those who say these things are bad, it must have something going for it and I don't believe they're keeping it for its off-road prowess since I never see any mud on it.
Easy. Take the current Hilux truck, (on offer everywhere except NA) shorten it, put a 2-door SUV body on it, keep the solid rear axle, offer it with a 6 speed MT and the Atkinson cycle 6-cyl, don't price-gouge, and don't whack it with an ugly stick. For an encore stretch it a bit and offer a 4-door. If they keep the price half-way reasonable they will sell boat-loads. The 4-door should be no bigger than a gen 3 4-Runner, preferably a bit smaller.