2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser

Performance

For comparison, that V-6 shares its four-liter displacement with two other small SUVs that are competitors to the FJ: the Nissan Xterra, which shares exterior dimensions very close to the FJ's, and the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon. The Xterra's V-6 has an advantage of 26 hp and 6 lb.-ft., while the Rubicon's straight six gives up 49 hp and 43 lb.-ft. to the Toyota. Looking back at grandpa, the original FJ40, it was a smidge smaller and taller than a modern-day base Wrangler, but never got more than 135 hp and 210 lb.-ft. out of its inline six.


While power output is much increased, the looks that hearken back to the FJ's forebear are intentional, with deliberate styling cues from the first-generation Land Cruiser. These include round headlights with an integrated grille, an upright windshield, a white-cap roof, and wraparound rear glass.


"The original FJ40 had this kind of really funky balance. It was the charm of the design that made it," notes Jin Won Kim, who designed the FJ Cruiser concept. "But we really didn't want to push this one to the retro side. We're playing it off of the heritage and spirit of the FJ40. We took some of the design cues, but we didn't take the whole proportion of the vehicle. It's not just a basic evolution of the design."

Interior

This legacy styling approach comes with a downside, however. The massive pillars in the rear quarters, along with large headrests and a rear-mounted spare create so many blind spots that you almost need a white cane when backing up.


Going forward is another matter, though. The ride is smooth and comfortable, easy on the bumps, and the nine inches of ground clearance give the FJ Cruiser a ready-made feel for off-road excursions. Offering two different types of 4WD, along with an optional rear locker and inclinometer, the FJ Cruiser is basically good to go. Note that the manual tranny and full-time 4WD combo can be a bit balky (but old-time FJ owners will probably feel right at home, especially with the floor-mounted lever, instead of a sissy button on the dash). On the other hand, if smoothness is a concern, the automatic with part-time 4WD is a sweet setup.