The Future Toyota 4X (4WD Crossover) is not necessarily meant for those of us with families, mortgages, and plenty of gear to Sherpa around.
The Toyota FT-4X Concept is really about inspiring a younger generation to get out, explore, and have fun doing it. The simplicity of this concept is clear. Sharp lines, bold colors, and design cues that give a strong nod to rugged Toyota DNA.
This vehicle is built on Toyota’s TNGA C-Platform and while it’s a bit car-like underneath, there’s still plenty of capability. The concept features a 4-cylinder engine for economy and low emissions, but we could definitely see a hybrid or diesel in a production version.
Unlike other compact SUV crossovers, the FT-4X includes a mechanical 4WD system with a selectable LOW-RANGE. Regardless of your preference for truck-based SUVs, that bit of capability sets this rig apart.
While much of this car is decidedly concept in nature (like removable lights, door handles that are also water bottles, embedded GoPro camera, etc) – some of the ideas are really interesting.
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The rear “Multi-Hatch” can open up like a liftgate (Outdoor Mode), or “Urban Mode” for a split-hatch door. While the car lacks a roof rack, it does include tie-downs so any sort of outdoor gear can be strapped to the roof.
The TOYOTA grille is a welcome throwback to original trucks & Land Cruisers, but we would prefer fully round headlights for a real retro look. On the drivers side the car features a vertical picture window with interchangeable glass. A cool feature that pays homage to the original Toyota Pickup Xtracab and 1st Gen 4Runner.
Fold flat rear seats, internal tie-downs, plenty of storage, and a very modern dash cluster are the best parts of the interior. We could easily see a version of this interior making it into production.
Is this the concept car we can expect to see on city streets and dirt roads in the near future? Would you be interested in a smaller SUV that includes real capability for moderate off-road driving?
No, this isn’t the solid-axle 70 Series Land Cruiser all of us hard-core Toyota enthusiasts dream of. It is though, a peek into what the future of urban + outdoor exploring could be.
We have plenty more photos for your browsing pleasure:
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