FJ Cruiser - Optional V8?

Should Toyota offer an optional V-8 in the FJ Cruiser?  

I'm happy with the power output from the 4.0 V-6.  I also like the way Toyota kept the options pretty slim on the FJ--this streamlining helps keep the MSRP lower.  You can have any seats you want--they've just gotta be black cloth!  This approach suits me fine.

I digress...a V8 would be nice but the 4.0 V6 puts out a healthy amount of power.  The lack of a V8 option isn't a deal-breaker.    

What I'd like to see would be a true part-time 4WD system, with a part-time transfer case and locking hubs.  I would be more than happy to get out and lock the hubs in the dirt if it meant I could unlock the hubs on the pavement to gain some MPG.

What consumer group demanded full-time 4WD?  I certainly wasn't a part of it.

I should also add that I do like the way Toyota provided a REAL LEVER to engage the transfer case with.

No, I'm not secretly wishing for the return of carburetors!  I'll take EFI any day, but I don't want my EFI with a side dish of traction control, ABS, or a fasten-your-seatbelt warning beep.  

From that standpoint, do you think the new Wrangler is a more "pure" 4x4? It has stability control and a lot of other stuff too, but is it as actively managed as the FJ?

It seems like the aftermarket hasn't wasted any time coming up with stuff for the new FJ. Do any of those components address what you're talking about?  

I haven't driven the new JK, so I don't know how actively managed the stability control is.  I do, however, categorically think that companies should make more of their whiz-bang electronic features options rather than standard equipment.

When those electronic features such as stability control and ABS are standard, they raise the sticker price and force those features on those that may not want them.  

I do applaud Toyota for making the FJ Cruiser with a basic, no-frills interior.  Heated leather seats don't help trail performance one bit!  

To answer the rest of your question, I believe that Advance Adapters offers an Atlas II for the FJ Cruiser.  An Atlas II gives the drivetrain a true part-time system at that end of the driveshaft, but does nothing to stop the hubs and CV shafts from constantly turning.  

I know that Off-Road Solutions makes a part-time hub conversion kit for the Tacoma.  I'd love to see one for the FJ Cruiser.

I should also add that I've just returned from Moab Easter Jeep Safari, where I had a chance to test the FJ on the *** Revenge trail.  It did quite well--I was very impressed with the dimensions of the vehicle, as the wheelbase and track width made for a stable, maneuverable ride.  I never lacked for power, and the stock low range in the transfer case was low enough to tackle the steep climbs without fear of stalling.  The rear e-locker made a world of difference.  Overall, a big thumbs-up for the FJ on *** Revenge.  

Heck yea it needs a V-8! That TRD Supercharged V-8 FJ they had at SEMA this past year looked sweet!

I agree they have a lot of power stock, that 4.0 in the just flat rocks! But who wouldn't want a V-8?

Now you what would be cool... the new 5.7 from the Tundra in one. Can you say scary!  
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'99 Ranger LT 4x4

www.dixonbrosracing.com

Why not use the V-8 from the Lexus? I think the cooking system would work from it as well. As trail worthy as the market it to be lets face it, most of them are being used on the street by those who want to LOOK cool and think their rig is trail tuff. It needs more performance for it's size and if you plan on actually using the FJ for more than groceries the extra power would be nice. Just look at ford and Jeep, they both used a V-8 option in their mid sized SUV's and what sold more? the V-8. (atleast I think )  
If you don't want it BROKE, DON'T let me drive it.

How about diesel?  Wouldn't that be cool.  If only we could get production diesel Toyotas in the U.S. like they do in Brazil, Australia, Canada, etc.  

Heck yeah they should provide an optional v-8 in the FJ.  I think diversity will be the key to their business growth.  Plus, everyone wants something different anyway.  Someone may want a rip roarin top speed machine, and go with extra displacement offered by a V-8.  The real issue is, how much difference will a V-8 make to someone that is cruisin around and crawlin in the mountains?  I think the V-8 would be a great option for those who want to customize a desert racer, and when you get to that level, most people are pouring money like crazy into their vehicle anyway.  It would be interesting though.

Bryan
http://businessfusionpro.com