FT 4X as everyone has mentioned, will never replace FJ or even be a "serious" 4X4, being a uni-body constructed vehicle! It might sell enough units, ala Juke, Soul, Element: but predict won't last long, just as these 3 examples. My concern is if Toyota builds it and it flops after initial success, Toyota will likely reach the wrong conclusion, that public doesn't care about 4x4 vehicles anymore; rather than customers aren't buying "this" as any sort of authentic 4x4! Surely, Toyota's marketing research deoartment realizes that few actually use the off road capabilities at all; or minimally; but do buy the "image" and some buy the "what's possible" with current "state of the art"
4x4 technology. Just look at how many 4 Runners are sold in 2wd, compared to 4wd, still has "image", if not capability.
What do Land Rover/Range Rover ads depict, not the Rodeo Drive or Palm Beach Worth Avenue cruising: but the technology that gives them 4x4 performance. Having the "capability" makes them feel better, not thinking, far removed, from the millions who buy a self protection firearm and never train, nor practice with it; but they "feel better" having it! New Bronco and Ranger from Ford, says they are willing to take a run at traditional Jeep market that sells a tough looking product: but lousy quality and reliability! If anybody is positioned to take on Jeep, it is Toyota with their history of capable, reliable, 4x4's: but seem too timid to take on biggest volume seller Jeep?
Maybe we can hope, as Supra is finally coming back after being last sold new in 1998? The latest MKIV version still has a cult following just like old FJ: but Toyota seems not to be able to capitalize on that reputation and loyalty, as Jeep has done?