2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser Preview

By the way, the FJ is about 280 mm (11 inches) shorter than the 4Runner in overall length while providing a little more than a 100 mm

Four-wheel disc brakes have been chosen despite some 4x4 enthusiast's preference for drums in the rear. (Photo: Toyota Canada)

(4 inch) shorter wheelbase, giving it more compact dimensions in line with competitive products such as Jeep's Liberty and Nissan's Xterra, both 4x4 capable SUVs.

Four-wheel disc brakes have been chosen, however, despite some 4x4 enthusiast's preference for drums in the rear. Most buyers will appreciate the benefits of discs all-round during regular driving, where the FJ will no doubt spend the majority of its time.

Some of Toyota's new safety features have proven to be superb driver's aids off-road as well as on, such as Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and traction control (TRAC). Antilock brakes (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and brake assist (BA) will also be standard, all part of Toyota's Star Safety System that comes standard on all of the brand's SUVs.

You may have noticed in Don Esmond's previous quote, the mention of a 4x2 FJ Cruiser. This is for those who want all the style

Some of Toyota's new safety features have proven to be superb driver's aids off-road as well as on. (Photo: Toyota Canada)

of the FJ without the extra weight, complexity and expense of a top-tier 4x4 system. While it will still be capable of light duty off-roading, Toyota recognizes that the 4x2 SUV market, especially in the U.S., is critical to a vehicle's success, and therefore will offer a light-duty FJ to these customers. Traditionally Canadian spec SUVs are only offered with four-wheel drive, a pattern that will most likely carry forward when the FJ Cruiser becomes available north of the forty-ninth in early 2006 - the same time it hits dealerships in the U.S. Just for the sake of interest, all 4x2 models will feature a standard automatic limited slip differential (ALSD) to keep them on-track during slippery conditions.