The Toyota TJ Cruiser concept that debuted at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show will reportedly move towards production, according to Best Car magazine Japan. The macho vehicle would be unveiled towards the end of this year and will go on sale in Japan by 2020.
Related: Toyota Reveals the Macho TJ Cruiser Concept at 2017 Tokyo Motor Show
The ‘T’ in Tj Cruiser stands for ‘Toolbox’ in reference to how the car can be used like a toolbox, while the ‘j’ stands for ‘joy’ in reference to the joy of visiting various places by car, whereas the ‘Cruiser’ is traditionally used by Toyota for its SUV line-up. Toyota claims that the Tj Cruiser Concept has the practicality of a cargo van and the stance of an SUV.
The Tj is a boxy vehicle with a square-ish cab while the raised suspension with the large SUV tires lends it a sporty attitude. The Tj Cruiser will symbolize a new genre incorporating the strengths of a van with those of an SUV.
Related: Daihatsu HY Fun Concept at GIIAS 2019
According to Best Car the production version might switch to traditional doors, rather than the sliding openings for accessing the second row, as in the original concept. Toyota would reportedly offer the TJ Cruiser in two- and three-row interior layouts. Both of them would retain the ability to fold the seats flat allowing owners to load the cabin with stuff.
Built on the TNGA platform, the TJ Cruiser will be powered by Toyota’s 1.8-liter hybrid-assisted four-cylinder engine with all-wheel drive. The other option would be a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with customers able to select between front- or all-wheel-drive.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com