1 Aug 2000
A bold new grille, redesigned boot lid and tail-lights, revised wheels and trim, the deletion of the Altera and the introduction of a high-performance VR-X sports model kept the TJ Magna fresh.
The bigger 3.5L engine’s power output was increased to 150kW.
The TJ range began with the Executive 3.0L and 3.5L models, and rose to the Advance 3.5, Sports 3.5 and VR-X 3.5.
The latter two featured a 163kW version of the 3.5L V6 available with either a regular five-speed manual gearbox or a new Tiptronic-style five-speed automatic sports shift.
Solara returned in October 2000, while a special VR-X limited edition arrived in May '01.
In September ’01 the MY02 TJ series was introduced, with more power (now up to 155kW), better side-impact protection and more features, including ABS and power windows across the range.
In August ’02 the TJ Series II saw the introduction of the Tiptronic-style four-speed automatic transmission across the non-Sports/VR-X range, along with minor specification and trim changes.
In January ’03 Australia’s first locally made 4WD drivetrain was added as an option to the Magna sedan range, in 154kW 3.5L V6 AWD and 159kW 3.5L V6 Sports models.
