Toyota is showing off its latest Cruiser. But this time it isn't a Land Cruiser or an FJ Cruiser. It's the Tj Cruiser concept.
Toyota says this one "represents the harmonious balance between the roominess of a cargo van and the powerful design of an SUV." It's intended to blur the line between work truck and fun truck. Cruiser is code for SUV in Toyota's Japanese naming system, which tells you where this small crossover sits. Think of it like a more rugged, more functional C-HR.
The square cabin is like a work van. It has a hard plastic floor, and it can fold flat all the way from the back to the very front. Even the front passenger seat will fold level with the rears. Toyota says you can hold outdoor equipment in there for work, and then throw in a bike for the weekend. It can hold objects 3,000 mm long. Impressive for a vehicle that is only 4,300 mm itself. The big rear hatch and van-like side doors make it easy to get big things in and out. Flip the seat behind the driver forward, and the Tj hides dedicated grocery storage.
The hood, roof, and fenders use special materials that resist scratches and dirt. They're designed to resist the occasional bump or nudge that is inevitable for a work truck. The seatbacks and floor are hard plastic, making them rough duty and hose-out ready.
The Tj Cruiser, which stands for Toolbox joy, is designed to use the upcoming second-generation TNGA platform. That platform is yet to underpin a production car but is expected near 2022. The powertrain is said to be a 2.0L gas engine with Toyota's hybrid system. It uses a front-biased all-wheel drive system.
Toyota hasn't committed to building the Tj, but it looks like it could be a good fit for buyers wanting cargo and camping capability. The body looks surprisingly production ready for a concept. Using the TNGA platform means that it could even make it to North America. The sliding side doors, however, will probably not find favour in our minivan-averse market. A final decision on the Tj will be made based on response to the concept.
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