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TRD tunes up Toyota FJ for SEMA

Toyota's performance arm transforms the SUV into a Baja machine.

By AutoWeek Oct 29, 2012 6:08AM

TRD Toyota FJ Cruiser for SEMA 2012 (© Toyota)

 

 

 

 

Toyota will bring a Toyota Racing Development-tuned version of its FJ off-roader to the 2012 SEMA show. The Baja-themed SUV concept will get more power, a better suspension, a unique exterior treatment and 17-inch beadlock wheels.

 

TRD started by upgrading the body for extreme off-road duty with an underbody exoskeleton. Toyota says the extra bracing makes the FJ more suitable for wheel, tire and suspension upgrades.

 

The front suspension uses 60 mm Bilstein shocks with a 1.3-inch lift and three-quarter-inch articulation. The rear shocks measure 50 mm with one inch of articulation and remote reservoirs. Midnight black 17-inch beadlock wheels clamp on to BFGoodrich all-terrain tires.

 

Photo gallery: SEMA 2012 preview

 

The engine was enhanced with a Twin Vortex supercharger from TRD and a new air-to-water intercooler. Those improve the output to 345 hp and 340 lb-ft of torque. The base FJ has 260 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. A cat-back exhaust was installed for better sound.

 

As for visual upgrades, the FJ gets a push bar and rock rails on the outside and two-tone leather in the cabin. Seats and floor mats get FJ-S logos.

 

The TRD Toyota FJ Cruiser will take the stand in Las Vegas on Tuesday.

 

-- Jake Lingeman


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2Comments
The Beltway
Nov 5, 2012 3:55AM
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Toyota needs to redesign this to eliminate all the blind spots.  Ever try to back one of these things up or change lanes on the highway?  Full of blind spots thanks to the huge C-pillars and a spare tire that covers half of the already too small rear window.  This thing needs a blind spot monitoring system as standard equipment.  Better get the backup camera option as well.  Better yet, buy the more capable, far more popular Jeep Wrangler instead.
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