Ford's Jeep Wrangler: The Troller TR-X concept

Ever wonder what Ford's answer to the Jeep Wrangler would look like? A lot like the Wrangler itself with some Toyota FJ Cruiser thrown in, as it turns out. The Troller TR-X is a rugged 4x4 from Ford Brazil's Design Center created for the São Paulo Motor Show.

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Brazil has really seen some impressive utility vehicle concepts this year. The Troller TR-X joins previous reveals like the Nissan EXTREM and Volkswagen Taigun.

The TR-X was designed to celebrate and communicate its rugged purpose, rather than hiding it in a pretty package a la the Land Rover DC-100. The vehicle's muscular stance, bulging hood and beefy tires convey a sense of utter disdain and impatience for paved drives – this thing is clearly meant to go where major roads don't. The green paint serves to reinforce the car's connection with the untamed wild.

"We were trying to create a concept that symbolized the essence of Troller. It is a brand that is known for its tradition in the off-road world with the T4. We've replicated Troller DNA in the TR-X in this robust and stylish design,'' said João Marcos Ramos, Ford Brazil's chief designer.

Troller is a Brazilian off-road vehicle manufacturer that Ford purchased in 2007.

While Ford doesn't get into any mechanical details about the TR-X and doesn't appear to have any production plans at present, the latest iteration of Troller's main 4x4, the 2013 Troller T4, has a surer future. The new model also appeared at the São Paulo show.

Thanks to a compact face and round headlamps, the T4 looks even more similar to a Wrangler than the TR-X. While it's not as overtly burly and off-road-hungry as the newer concept, the T4 is every bit as prepared for rugged driving thanks to a standard snorkel, rustproof composite body and steel skid plates. It is powered by a 165-hp 3.2-liter turbo engine.

Source: Troller via Autoblog