The deserts and mountains surrounding the Phoenix Valley area are at their most beautiful in the immediate wake of spring. That makes this the perfect time for Phoenix Arizona auto and outdoor enthusiasts to make a solid investment in a durable SUV for wilderness exploration. While there are some great options available, from the desert inspired Jeep Wrangler Mojave, to the fuel efficient and luxurious Lexus RX 450h, one model in particular has stood out for the past few years as serving to truly take the wilderness exploration vehicle into the 21st century: The Toyota FJ Cruiser.
The Toyota FJ Cruiser is a retro-style SUV produced by Toyota. Introduced as a concept at the 2003 Chicago Auto Show, and in production form at the following North American International Auto Show, the vehicle went on sale in early 2006, featuring styling reminiscent of the original Toyota FJ 40 Land Cruisers from the 1960s.
As offroading is a popular pastime in the Phoenix Valley area, Phoenix Arizona customers would likely recognize the vintage 4wd classic Toyota FJ 40. Separated by over two decades, FJ 40 and its off -road heir, FJ Cruiser, share common DNA. With its box shape and lozenge grille, FJ 40 is instantly recognizable, but it was its capability and durability that made it an icon. With 1,100,000 built between 1960 and 1984, it’s one of the most popular off -road vehicles in history. Toyota has sparred no expense in keeping the tradition of all terrain excellence with it’s continual development and improvements on the Toyota FJ Cruiser.
Now the Specs: After five decades of off -road experience, Toyota know a few things about making vehicles that are capable and durable. The FJ Cruiser is the latest beneficiary of this proud heritage. It’s V6 engine features Dual Independent Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). Cranking out 260 hp and 271 lb.-ft. of torque, it has the muscle to take on mountains. Add to that an available 6-speed manual transmission with 2-speed transfer case and an electronically controlled locking rear differential, and FJ Cruiser possesses impressive off -road capability. Solid body-on-frame construction keeps the FJ rigid, which helps the suspension do its work. The independent front suspension system delivers nearly eight inches of wheel travel, while the 4-link rear suspension with lateral rod offers more than nine inches. In other words: This vehicle is almost designed for Phoenix Arizona outdoor enthusiasts to soundly handle the rough and beautiful terrain of the surrounding Phoenix Valley landscape.
Phoenix Arizona auto and outdoor enthusiasts can view and test drive the new 2011 Toyota FJ Cruiser at any local Phoenix Valley area Toyota dealer.
FJs are like Crayola cars. Love them!
Yeah I remember taking trips through the Superstitions in the old FJ 40 trucks, pretty solid and reliable, but the new FJ Cruiser models, aside from the great performance output, definitely bring something new and valuable to the table from an exterior design viewpoint.