VIDEO: TOYOTA WANTS TO BUILD A SMALL, PROPER OFF-ROADER – THE FT-4X

Many of us out there find ourselves wanting when looking for a more compact but proper off-roader, think Defender 90 but without the astronomical price tag.

Well, Toyota has listened and, not too long ago, hinted that they are looking at building a smaller FJ Cruiser that's an “authentic” off-road SUV.

Jim Lentz, Toyota Motor North America CEO, said in an interview with Motor Trend recently that "there was space alongside the RAV4 for a short-wheelbase SUV with proper off-road credentials.

“There’s room for an authentic small off-road SUV,” he continued, “we’re getting a lot of requests from folks who want another FJ or some variant”.

Lentz said that both the FT-4X and the FT-AC concepts that Toyota revealed late last year were “along the lines” of a new four-wheel-drive vehicle Toyota would like to add to its range.

“There is room on the lower end, in terms of price or authenticity, for an off-road, frame-based SUV,” he explained.

“This would be for people going outdoors, but truly going off-road. This would not be all-wheel-drive for safety, this would be four-wheel-drive with ground clearance.

“This could be FJ-sized, but for an enthusiast, it has to be something with a small wheelbase to be more manoeuvrable when in the rocks.”

Either way, it sure is an exciting option for those who can't afford a Cruiser.

Check out the video below for an overview of the FT-4X concept.