Iknew it, i knew it, i knew i knew, it, and liek I said that is the ONLY thing that caught my eyes in those photos. The FJ is o odd looking I dont think I could ever drive one, all of ym freidns and neighbors would laugh at me for sure. i dont doubt its capabilities at all, howveer looks and styling factor into it too mcuh to buy it for its offroad capabiliteies alone. ohh well, to each is own, but Im holding out for the retro 2nd gen runner, then I'll buy.

 

Yeah, j/k about the Sienna.

The Toyota guys I spoke with said the uprated SE suspension is being built around BFG tires. No mention of an optional tire. Thanks for the links. Pretty capable rig right out of the box, I'd say.

 

The 4x2 FJC I saw at the DC Auto Show today had Bridgestone tires.

 

Which wheels did it have, the black steelies or alloys? Toyota info suggests that the optional alloys will also be fitted with BFG T/A's *crosses fingers*

Flamed, I read the A/T trend threads on both hardcore Toyota and rock crawler boards. I was surprised, and will always own an M/T when given a choice, but can understand why rock crawlers might want the A/T. They say it gives more focus on proper line instead of clutch control going over large obstacles. I don't get full-time 4X4 for the M/T either, but am grateful the expensive Torsen is there. I had a 4G 'Runner and UZJ100's with that system and liked the added on-road grip. If there was a fuel economy penalty, it was worth it for the extra confidence, versatility and transparent operation compared to the part-time system IMO.

 

BT17R-it had the alloys but it was only the 4x2. Maybe the 4x4's will get the BFG's? And thanks for all the cool FJ info you have been posting!

 

There was a green base model at the detroit show, it was badged "prototype base model" the plastics on the interior were lacking texture, but that was about the only thing that gave it a prototype apearance.
It did have black steelies with smaller bridgestones than the 4x4, along with a $19,--- base price on the sticker.

 

Roger that.
Ever want to know why I hate autos off road, just get an auto 4x4 to the top of a very steep very high hill that has snow packed smooth-n-shiny (and/or icy) by the previous traffic. Then just drive down it. Foot planted on brake, trans yanked down to low, tcase in low range - at some point you go bobsledding along screaming at the top of your lungs with no way to steer or slow down. That doesn't happen with a manual. Same scenario on gooey mud hills. Or... halfway up that steeep sumbitch of a hill, you need a bit more throttle, right then the torque converter changes ptich and suddenly you've sent twice the power to the rear wheels, they've broke loose and you're sliding back down the hill....

I hate autos. Sure, a guy with NO skills can go farther down the bunny trail with one, but once you get to the good stuff they suck. Oh, they rock on the sand dunes though! - until they blow up....

But thats just me. Your mileage may vary.

 

can you post these pics to imageshack?

will the audio system play mp3's and have an aux input?

 

That's the featured color FJC at the Portland Auto Show this weekend. That's all they knew, it arrived by transporter just in time (along with Camry Hybrid and Yaris) to be detailed and set up in the display. No word on model or accessories.