This article delves into the fascinating origin story of the Toyota FJ Cruiser, highlighting the extraordinary achievement of a recent graduate, Jin Won Kim, who designed the vehicle's distinctive exterior at the tender age of 24. Alongside him, William Chergosky contributed significantly by crafting its interior. The piece explores the journey of this iconic SUV, which began as a covert project, and celebrates the enduring influence of these two designers, who have continued to shape numerous prominent models for Toyota and Lexus throughout their impressive careers.
The year 2026 marks two decades since the initial Toyota FJ Cruiser rolled off the assembly line, a significant milestone that prompts reflection on its enduring appeal. While not a massive sales success in the American market, its robust production run of 16 years speaks volumes about its niche popularity. The vehicle's retro aesthetic, directly inspired by the classic FJ40, was complemented by genuine off-road capabilities, sharing its foundational architecture with the contemporary Toyota 4Runner. The exterior's unique styling, the brainchild of Jin Won Kim, undeniably served as its primary draw.
Jin Won Kim embarked on his career at Toyota’s Calty Design Research studios in 2001, fresh from graduating from the ArtCenter College of Design. It was there that his vision for a contemporary FJ40 quickly garnered attention, leading to its selection for the FJ Cruiser concept and ultimately, the production model. This remarkable feat was achieved when Kim was merely 24 years old, showcasing his exceptional talent and foresight.
While exterior designers often receive more recognition, the critical role of automotive interior designers, such as William Chergosky, cannot be overstated. The interior is where drivers and passengers spend most of their time, and its design can be a decisive factor in a car's overall success. Chergosky, a seasoned designer credited with the exterior of the 1996 Dodge Copperhead Concept, brought his expertise to the FJ Cruiser, creating an interior that perfectly balanced retro minimalism with practical ergonomics, avoiding any hint of kitsch.
The FJ Cruiser project served as a pivotal launching pad for both Kim and Chergosky's careers at Toyota. This initial collaborative success propelled them forward, enabling them to contribute to a multitude of significant vehicles for both Toyota and Lexus. Today, Kim holds a leadership position as one of Calty's chief designers, while Chergosky serves as a chief interior designer for the company.
Kim's extensive portfolio now includes designs for the eleventh-generation Corolla, the seventh-generation Lexus ES, the current-generation Sienna, and, in a full-circle moment, the Land Cruiser 250. Chergosky's impressive contributions are evident in the interiors of the third-generation Lexus GS, the LC grand tourer, the eighth-generation Toyota Camry, and the current Highlander. He also played a key role in the development of the GR Supra and the current GR 86, solidifying both designers' reputations as influential figures in modern automotive design.
The narrative of the Toyota FJ Cruiser's creation is a testament to the vision and talent of its designers, Jin Won Kim and William Chergosky. Their early career achievements with this distinctive SUV not only solidified its place in automotive history but also set the stage for their continued success and significant contributions to the Toyota and Lexus lineups. The vehicle stands as a symbol of how innovative design, even from young talent, can leave a lasting mark on the industry.