Toyota has teased a new concept bound for the 2017 New York Motor Show in April that they’re calling the FT-4X, and judging by the image it’s more than likely to be a kind of rugged off-roader that the Japanese brand is (has been) known.
Yes we know that the Goodyear brand is actually more prominently displayed than the Toyota oval, but the go-anywhere, over-anything look of the tyre matched with the macho triton 18-inch wheel is exactly the kind of match for a aggressively capable 4x4 made for unforgiving terrain.
The FT-4X’s exterior itself still a mystery but we do heavily suspect it’ll sport a dual orange on black finish, as it’s barely visible at the leaning edge of the vehicle that we assume is the front. Short overhang for maximum approach angle equals ‘good’ in our books.
While not giving its intentions away fully such as if they’d sneak the ‘FJ’ name into it somehow, but the FT is Toyota-speak for a concept vehicle. Meanwhile, 4X speaks to the four-driven wheels, and paint a pretty clear picture of an upcoming off-roader. If it makes it to production, it could be quite a serious one too - none of this crossover antics.
Its imminent premiere at the New York Motor Show may or may not link it to future marketing blitz to appeal to the North American market, but if that does turn out to be true, it would be in line with the 2003 concept that eventually lead to the FJ Cruiser.
After all, it did unveil the stunning FT-1 Concept back in 2014 in at the Detroit Motor Show, despite the car being jointly developed with BMW with a more European appeal. Then again, it might just be the most conveniently timed major motor show from Toyota’s perspective.
Are we seeing the first glimpses of a sequel to the retro-inspired FJ Cruiser that was axed last year? Let’s hope so.
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