Speculations Abound: Toyota’s Compact Off-Roader Shrouded in Mystery
According to a recent report, there are plans for Toyota’s popular FJ Cruiser to make a comeback using the same design as their new $13,000 Hilux Champ, a compact truck. Sources from Japan’s Best Car magazine suggest that the off-roader, set to start production later this year, will be built on the same platform as the pickup.
As with many online content, it is wise to approach this news with a level of skepticism. Toyota has only given vague hints about a potential new model, as evidenced by the recent discovery of the trademark for Land Cruiser FJ in November. This has sparked speculations after a report made claims that the vehicle could potentially include a hybrid engine.
Recent reports about the new FJ appear to conflict with previous findings. According to past articles, the upcoming model was said to be based on the TNGA-F platform, which is currently used for the Toyota Land Cruiser, Sequoia, Tundra, Lexus LX, and Lexus GX.
Predicting the next move of an automaker is a futile exercise. Manufacturers are tight-lipped about their future plans and any leaked information can either be accurate or completely misleading, often based on anonymous sources. Conflicting reports are frequent, and every other click on the internet seems to offer a glimmer of hope without much substance.
Is the concept of a simplistic mini off-roader with a vintage look and square shape appealing? Indeed, it does spark nostalgia in our adolescent minds, but it may not be profitable for Toyota. The American market typically shies away from compact and budget-friendly vehicles, making the prospect of an SUV based on the Champ (recently released in Thailand) seem unsuccessful for US sales.
Although Toyota does not currently have a compact off-road platform in its lineup, it may be considering adding one that is even smaller than the popular Land Cruiser. One potential option would be to rework the RAV4 model, but this could potentially compromise its ability to tackle rugged terrain. As Toyota strives to balance the joys of off-roading with affordability, it must carefully navigate this decision.
Perhaps it is simply my hopeful thinking speaking.
Source: Best Car via Autoblog
