NO off-roader worth his/her salt would ever disrespect one of the true big daddies of the SUV scene, the Toyota Land Cruiser. Introduced as the FJ series in 1960, it was simplicity personified; an all-grunt, take-it-anywhere rig. Despite its susceptibility to rust, this backcountry bruiser was just plain tough, taking on all sorts of rough-and-tumble terrain and then begging for more.
Toyota sold more than a million of the quintessential two-door wagons, known as the FJ40, worldwide. More than 300,000 Land Cruisers landed Stateside. Many FJ40s still see abusive service in the roughest parts of the world even though Toyota hasn't built them since 1983.
The standard engine is a 5.4-liter gasoline V8 rated at 300hp and 365 lb./ft of torque. An optional 6.8-liter V10 generates 362 hp and 457 lb-ft of torque. The best choice for those who do serious towing and hauling though is the 6.0-liter Power Stroke diesel V8 rated at 325 hp and a stump-pulling 570 lb-ft of torque.
Its now 2007, so lets fast-forward to the latest SUV from Toyota, the FJ Cruiser. The production FJ Cruiser is remarkably unchanged from the well-received concept that debuted at the 2003 Detroit auto show, where Toyota hailed it as a return to the roots of SUVs (in other words, the FJ40).
This begs a few questions about this descendant of the FJ40: Can it live up to the reputation of its iconic heritage? Is it merely a city slicker's SUV, with the flavor, but not the substance of its gritty granddaddy? What sort of enhancements can give it even more capability for off-road adventures?
Touching on the last question first, in this series, we'll be focusing on an upgraded FJ Cruiser fitted with several accessories, including Pro Comp wheels and tires as well as a Pro Comp suspension. This six-inch lift recently earned the 2006 SEMA International New Product Award. It allows up to 35-inch tires, which gives the FJ Cruiser much better ground clearance to overcome all sorts of obstacles.
Two different versions of the Pro Comp package are available. The Stage I system has spacers for the factory struts and ES9000 rear shocks. Extended steering knuckles and one-piece lower cross-members position factory components with the correct geometry for optimum performance and durability. Longer rear coils combined with extended upper arms and a rear track bar bracket complete the total suspension package.
For maximum performance, the Stage II system comes with maximum- performance MX2.75c Coil Over front shocks and MX6 Six-Way Adjustable rear shocks. In upcoming articles, we'll dig into the more details of this setup, and how well it performs in the dirt.
First, however, let's do an overview of the stock FJ Cruiser and its features, while giving a nod to the traits of its respected forefather. Based on the Tacoma and 4Runner chassis, albeit with a four-inch shorter wheelbase, the vehicle not only has agile handling on the street, but also good approach and departure angles (34/31 degrees, respectively, on the 4WD model). An available locking rear differential and the standard 4.0- liter V-6, rated at 239 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque, will also aid in rock-crawling adventures.
For comparison, lets look at the engines in two other small SUVs that are competitors to the FJ: the Nissan Xterra, which shares exterior dimensions very close to the FJ's, and the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon. The Xterra's 4.0 V-6 has an advantage of 26 hp and 6 lbs./ft., while the Rubicon's straight six. has been replaced by a 3.8 V6 with 205 hp and 240 lbs./ft. in the new JK Wrangler. Looking back at grandpa, the original FJ40, it was a smidge smaller and taller than a modern-day base Wrangler, but never made more than 135 hp and 210 lbs./ft. out of its inline six.
Despite a substantial power increase, the FJ Cruiser's looks hearken back to its forbearer with deliberate styling cues from the first-generation Land Cruiser. These include round headlights with an integrated grille, an upright windshield, a white-cap roof, and wraparound rear glass.
Going forward the ride is smooth and comfortable, easy on the bumps, and nine-inches of ground clearance give the FJ Cruiser a ready-made feel for off-road excursions. Offering two different types of 4WD, along with the optional rear locker and an inclinometer, the FJ Cruiser is basically good to go. For some, the manual tranny and full-time 4WD combo may feel a bit balky, but old-time FJ owners will probably feel right at home, especially with the floor-mounted t-case lever, instead of a sissy button on the dash. On the other hand, if smoothness is a concern, the automatic with part-time 4WD is a sweet setup.
Another area of interest is the door arrangement. Operating the suicidestyle, rear-hinged doors may take some getting used to. The interior is otherwise off-road ready, with washable seat fabric and rubber mats on the floor and cargo area. There's a surprising amount of storage space in the rear as well.
Overall, the FJ Cruiser is a refreshing counterpoint to those cushy luxo barges and car-derived crossovers. This apple hasn't fallen far from the tree, and has a good bite to it. Stay tuned for the next installment on the Pro Comp lift kit.
CAPTIONS
A. Front suspension with Pro Comp lift kit B. Overall shot of rear suspension kit C&D. Pro Comp front suspension crossmembers close up.
