When it discontinued the FJ Cruiser in early 2014, Toyota killed off the only vehicle that was somewhat reminiscent of the original Land Cruiser/FJ40. Now that the FJ Cruiser is gone, Toyota is pondering a new retro-style SUV, and it just unveiled a concept vehicle at the 2017 New York Auto Show. Although the Japanese firm didn't say whether a production model is in the books, the FT-4X concept is proof that Toyota still has second thoughts about dropping the FJ Cruiser.

Granted, the FJ Cruiser was pretty boxy for mid-2000 standards, but the FT-4X concept takes the idea to a new level. It's rather difficult to find rounded areas on this crossover, but that's far from surprising given that Toyota designers likely took inspiration from the Land Cruiser of the 1960s. The roof reminds me a bit of the Kia Soul (or even the now defunct Scion xA), but other than that, the FT-4X is a nice mix of old and modern styling cues. While the roof is a big square with a 45-degree windshield, the sculpted side skirts and front fenders give it a fresh and unique look. The front end and the wide, almost separate wheel arches have a Wrangler-esque vibe, but the X-shaped fascia and bumper section make it as original as they get.

The big wheels, a common feature for concept cars, suggest excellent off-road capability. Toyota says the concept uses a mechanical four-wheel drive system with a selectable low-range and a MacPherson suspension, so it's safe to assume that this toolbox on wheels can tackle dusty and snowy trails.

Inside, the FT-4X is an advanced, modern vehicle. The driver and front passenger area has a simple, practical layout. The dash is essentially a storage area with a floating glove box, while both door panels include fancy looking water bottles. The steering wheel is also simple and straightforward, while the traditional instrument cluster was replaced by a small screen. The low dashboard also offers tremendous visibility up front. Behind the front seats, the FT-4X can provide seating for three adults or a flat loading area with loads of space for hauling stuff around or a long trip to the great outdoors.

The SUV is equipped with all the tech you need on vacation too. There are USB outlets, a ceiling-mounted removable flashlight, air vents that can warm and dry clothing, GPS, and a removable audio system. Just in case you want to throw that beach party you've been dreaming of in your high-school years. Should you get cold, there's a sleeping bag between the front seats.

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Why it Matters

Toyota says that the FT-4X is a concept for "millennial-aged professionals confined to city limits" that find themselves in "unplanned getaways of the casual, less extreme kind." I just think that this concept car is a worthy, modern successor of the original Land Cruiser FJ40 and could become a production car that may succeed where the FJ Cruiser failed. To be honest, it also seems pretty doable in the current configuration, minus some of the fancy features that would make it rather expensive for the average millennial.