2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser Preview

If that's not enough, Toyota will offer the option of a rear differential lock, electronic four-wheel traction control (on 4WD

The cargo area is ultra simplistic, with matte black rubberized plastic surfaces and aluminum accents. (Photo: Toyota Canada)

models only), running boards, rear sonar backup assist, front seat-mounted side airbags and front- and rear-side curtain airbags, daytime running lights, power outside mirrors with image lights, cruise control, an upgraded AM/FM CD audio system with a six-disc changer, equalizer and eight speakers, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, multi-information display, exterior color door insert panels, privacy glass, and a rear wiper.

The cargo area is ultra simplistic, with matte black rubberized plastic surfaces and aluminum accents making for what looks to be a commodious space. The rear seats fold flat, of course, ideal for optimizing loading capacity when three's a crowd.

To access the cargo bay, a two-part rear hatch is featured with a flip-up glass section for loading and unloading smaller items, such as grocery bags.

"Toyota is responding to the needs of a new generation of buyers with a modern interpretation of a Toyota classic, combining

The new FJ will do a great deal to remind North American truck and SUV buyers that Toyota has a rich history in tough-as-nails work and recreation vehicles. (Photo: Toyota Canada)

Toyota heritage with the safety and refinement requirements of today's market," added Esmond.

And by so responding, the new FJ Cruiser should not only cause truck and SUV buyers to pay tribute to the short wheelbase FJ40 and BJ70 model that followed, but also its line of full-size Land Cruiser wagons, the original 4Runner pickup truck-based sport utility, and early Toyota 4x4 pickup trucks. For this reason it will do a great deal to remind North American truck and SUV buyers that Toyota has a rich history in tough-as-nails work and recreation vehicles, and in so doing the FJ, and the associated ad campaign that will accompany its launch, will probably attract new buyers to the other trucks in its lineup.