Toyota has masterfully blended heritage with hardcore performance in their latest creation, the Fj Bruiser. This concept vehicle, unveiled at SEMA 2023, isn’t just a nod to the iconic 1966 Toyota FJ45 Pickup Truck; it’s a full-fledged rock-crawling beast engineered to conquer any terrain imaginable. As the Land Cruiser makes its highly anticipated return to the US market, the FJ Bruiser emerges as a powerful statement of Toyota’s off-road legacy and future innovation.
Marty Schwerter, Toyota Motorsports garage team manager, explains the genesis of this exceptional build: “With the return of the Land Cruiser to the U.S. Market, it only made sense to build a rock crawler, so this is our take on a 1966 Toyota FJ45 Pickup Truck.” Initially dubbed “The Unstoppable FJ,” its aggressive capabilities quickly earned it the moniker FJ Bruiser, a testament to its formidable presence and performance.
To ensure the FJ Bruiser lived up to its name, Toyota’s TRD team in Costa Mesa, Calif., stepped in to provide the heart of this machine: a modified 358 cu.in. V8 NASCAR® Cup Car powerplant. This engine roars to life with a staggering 725 horsepower, channeled through a MagnaFlow® exhaust system that announces its arrival with an unmistakable growl. Power is delivered to the wheels via a race-ready, 3-speed automatic Rancho Drivetrain Engineering® transmission, built to withstand the extreme demands of rock crawling and high-speed runs alike.
Staying true to classic off-road brawn, the FJ Bruiser boasts a solid axle setup, crucial for serious rock crawling prowess. Built with “unstoppable” in mind, the driveline features robust Currie® differentials at both the front and rear, coupled with an Advanced Adapter Atlas® transfer case. This advanced transfer case provides an impressive range of gearing options, offering four 2WD speeds and four 4WD speeds. This configuration allows the FJ Bruiser to crawl at a snail’s pace of 12 mph at 7,000 rpm in its lowest gear, while also possessing the capability to reach blistering speeds of up to 165 mph at the same 7,000 rpm in its highest gear – a truly versatile machine.
A standout feature designed to overcome even the most challenging obstacles is the integrated CAMSO® track system. Replacing the traditional center skid plate, this tank-like track can be engaged from the cockpit with the push of a button. Should the FJ Bruiser become high-centered, this innovative system provides the necessary traction to power out of virtually any predicament, eliminating the need for external winching and maintaining driver safety.
Marrying vintage FJ aesthetics with modern off-road technology presented a significant challenge. The team expertly fabricated a full tube chassis and roll cage, providing a rigid and safe foundation. The classic FJ45 body was then meticulously mated to this custom frame. To handle extreme terrain, a full trailing arm suspension system was implemented, featuring Fox® shocks and Eibach® springs, ensuring maximum articulation and control. Aggressive 42-inch BF Goodrich® Krawler T/A KX tires, mounted on 20-inch Method® Beadlock wheels, complete the off-road package, visually dominating and promising unmatched grip.
Inside the FJ Bruiser, Complete Customs® crafted an interior that blends classic charm with modern racing functionality. MOMO® Daytona EVO seats, re-skinned in a plaid pattern reminiscent of the original FJ bench seat, pay homage to its heritage. A vintage 1968 Jackie Stewart championship steering wheel adds a touch of racing history and driver connection.
The FJ Bruiser isn’t just a showpiece; it’s a powerful symbol of the Land Cruiser’s enduring spirit. Mike Tripp, group vice president of Toyota Marketing, aptly summarizes its significance: “This build is iconic, one-of-a-kind, and, let’s face it, totally radical looking. It’s a reminder of what Land Cruiser has always been; a vehicle built to take you as far as your imagination will allow.” As a highlight of Toyota’s expansive SEMA showcase, the FJ Bruiser stands as a testament to Toyota’s commitment to pushing boundaries and celebrating its legendary off-road heritage.
