Toyota FJ Cruiser Boosts Safety Features

TORRANCE, CA --- The Toyota FJ Cruiser has some new safety features and three new colors for 2009.

The 2009 FJ Cruiser gains a roll sensing side curtain airbags, as well as active headrests for the front seats, Toyota said. In certain rear collisions, a cable-actuated mechanism in the active headrest moves the headrest upward and forward to help limit the movement of the occupant's head. The roll sensing side curtain airbags can detect a potential rollover and signal the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system to help reduce a lateral skid. In addition, the rollover sense can signal the standard seat-mounted side airbags and side curtain airbags to deploy.

New for 2009, the optional Convenience Package adds a rear backup camera and auto-dimming rear-view mirror. Three new exterior colors include Black, Silver Fresco Metallic, and Iceberg (white).

The FJ Cruiser is powered by a DOHC 4.0-liter V6 engine that produces 239 horsepower and 278 lb.-ft. of peak torque. A Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) system ensures a broad torque curve for easy cruising on or off-road, Toyota said.