Inspired by the original FJ40 originally produced in the 60’s, Land Cruiser’s modern take on this classic, the FJ Cruiser, has been a surprise hit on the local SUV sales chart – the ‘retro bruiser’ averaging more than 70 units a month.
Toyota’s General Manager of Marketing Communications, Kerry Roodt, concedes that the classic lines of the FJ Cruiser were crucial to its initial success, but one cannot forget that it is still a Land Cruiser: “The FJ has the crucial Land Cruiser DNA which means that it can travel to, and return from, the most extreme environments.
“It features impressive ground clearance (245mm) – a 34-degree approach angle, 31-degree departure angle and 29-degree break-over angle. The latter two dimensions are the best for any vehicle in in its class.
“Now with the addition of several hard core off-road enhancements the latest version of the FJ Cruiser is invincible.”
The most recent updates for the 2013 FJ Cruiser include:
- The addition of a second tank that more than doubles its fuel-load capacity to 159 litres. The addition of this 87-litre sub-tank to the 72-litre main tank improves its theoretical driving range to over 1 000km.
- The adoption of a Crawl Control function – a “feet-off” control system that helps take the vehicle over severe or slippery terrain. It assists in climbing or descending steep hills, freeing the vehicle if it is stuck, and is also helpful in mud, sand and gravel, and when fording water. Crawl Control engages in L4 (low-range) and temporarily disengages at speeds above 25km/h, or above 10km/h when the rear differential is locked. A speed-selector dial on the new overhead console provides the choice of five speeds. The system automatically maintains a low uniform vehicle speed uphill and downhill by controlling both engine output and brake hydraulic pressure, allowing the driver to concentrate fully on steering the vehicle. It increases vehicle stability in extreme four-wheel driving conditions by minimising wheel spin and tyre lock-up. The system has the added benefit of reducing potential damage to the vehicle, by smoothly controlling vehicle speed over rugged terrain. It reduces load on the drivetrain by smoothly controlling engine output and brake application.
The FJ Cruiser ticks all the right boxes when it comes to standard kit: electric windows all round, a leather covered steering wheel with remote audio and Bluetooth controls, integrated audio/CD sound system with 6 speakers and iPod connector, external audio and USB connectors, a powerful air conditioning system, extra power socket, and cruise control. Worthy of special mention is the unique roof lining which acts as a speaker membrane, thereby offering a truly immersive audio experience. The FJ also boasts Toyota’s rear monitor system, which integrates a rear facing video camera, electro chromatic interior rear view mirror and video screen integrated into the rear mirror to offer ease of reversing on all models.
As before, the revised FJ Cruiser is available in two versions – Standard and Sports Cruiser, the latter is distinguished by its Raven Black paint scheme, extra chrome detailing, which includes chrome trim on the high mounted air intake, FJ-styled door scuff plates, full wheel cover on the back door and leather seat trim. Further chrome highlights are visible on the door handles, side mirrors, bumpers and radiator trim. A set of Sport-badges rounds off the package.
Both models are powered by a 200kW, 380Nm 4.0-litre V6 petrol engine with five-speed automatic transmission, part-time 4×4, an electrically activated rear differential lock and switchable Active Traction Control technology to maximise off-road climbing ability.
Pricing:
- FJ Cruiser 4.0 V6 4×4 AT – R462 200
- FJ Cruiser 4.0 V6 4×4 Sports Cruiser AT – R485 200
All versions of the FJ Cruiser come with a 5-year / 90 000 km service plan and a 3-year / 100 000 km warranty. These models are also supported by the ToyotaCare Roadside Assistance Programme and entitles customers to 24-hour roadside assistance, ensuring ultimate peace-of-mind motoring.
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