Hey all,

With the recent press release from Toyota about the 2010 FJ Cruiser, a statement stuck out at me and i have boldfaced it:

"The 2010 FJ Cruiser, the most capable off-road SUV in the Toyota line-up, will feature several upgrades, including dual VVT-i and roller rocker arms on the 4.0-liter V6, which add 19 horsepower and a one mpg increase. Minor suspension changes reduce the turning radius by more than a foot, and a new Army Green exterior color is offered. The base MSRP for FJ Cruiser will range from $23,680 for the 2WD automatic to $25,270 for the 4WD automatic, an increase of $360, or 1.4 to 1.5 percent."
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

I guess that it makes sense given that the FJ comes with A-TRAC and rear locker along with shorter dimensions. However, prior to the FJ, the Land Cruiser has always been considered Toyota's best off-roading vehicle, bar none...Toyota's answer to the competition from Land Rover (and Mercedes).

With the 2009 4runner Trail Edition getting the A-TRAC and rear locker, where does the Land Cruiser stand in off-road capability??? Is it now 3rd in line??

I have always viewed the Land Cruiser with much awe, so this statement from Toyota kinda took me by surprise. I should not be though, given that the new 2008-present TLC has taken a step towards mall-friendliness with its bloated design and lower clearances. Is CRAWL not considered an effective off-road tool, on par with A-TRAC/locker?? I guess CRAWL technology on the new Land Cruiser (and LX570) is just for the mild-mod off-roading??

And this statement is from the horse's mouth...so, i am kinda sad to see that Toyota admitted that the Land Cruiser is no longer their best stock off-roader. Will the Land Cruiser further slip down the ladder with the next redesign??

Just thinking (and sobbing) out loud....