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Post Number: 12
Registered: 1-2005
| | Posted on Thursday, January 20, 2005 - 6:28 pm: |       |
TOYOTA UNVEILS FT-SX CONCEPT VEHICLE AT DETROIT SHOW
Toyota has revealed a bold new concept for a crossover Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) at the 2005 North American Auto Show in Detroit.
The FT-SX concept vehicle was designed by Toyota’s Calty Design Research facility in Newport Beach, California.
It features design cues that could point towards future Toyota production models.
Exterior designer Ian Cartabiano, 30, said he sought a fresh styling identity for the Toyota brand, with a new “T-Face” front end that establishes a memorable design theme for Toyota’s future.
The four-door FT-SX is slightly longer and wider than a Toyota Kluger, but the sleek SUV is 12cm lower and sits on huge 21-inch alloy wheels.
It is powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine driving through all four wheels.
“The FT-SX concept was developed to explore a totally new genre to help create a bolder, more decisive image for Toyota,” said Toyota Motor Sales USA senior vice-president Don Esmond.
“It is a concept aimed at young families looking beyond the traditional passenger car or SUV and baby boomers seeking a stylish and refined reward vehicle.”
The FT-SX was developed in conjunction with the TMS Advanced Product Strategy Group with the aim of creating a vehicle that combines the ride comfort, handling and fuel efficiency of a sedan with the utility, spaciousness and visibility of a car-based SUV.
The distinctive front end includes headlamps that connect seamlessly with a bold new grille.
At the rear, an innovative hatch design offers three opening options – including a lower tailgate that opens vertically for easy cargo area access.
A loading tray automatically extends when the lower hatch is opened to assist in loading large and heavy objects.
The door handles are subtly integrated into the beltline and open the clamshell doors at the touch of a button.
Interior designer Alberto Palma sought to create an atmosphere of luxury, comfort, utility and practicality using natural woods, soft leathers and durable metal surfaces. |
