July 26, 2006 - Toyota has a long history in off-roading, muddying its tires and hopping rocks for decades and the most enduring name in Toyota's offroad prowess has to be Land Cruiser. Whether ferrying soldiers through battle, weekend beer-soaked rock-crawling or bringing medical supplies to remote locations, the Land Cruiser name has always meant durability and utility. In recent generations, Toyota has taken the Land Cruiser marquee decidedly away from its hardcore roots and converted it into a still capable off-roader but with more of a family vibe to it. Toyota fans have been waiting for a car like the FJ Cruiser to fill the fun, brutish void for years.

The 2007 FJ Cruiser is Toyota's funky mid-range off-roader (the RAV4 is still in play on the low-end) put in place to attract a generation that has grown up maybe coveting a Jeep or in more recent times a Nissan Xterra or Honda Element. While those choices have similarly bold design, it's the FJ that's the real head-turner of the moment.

The FJ is offered in three models: a 2WD automatic, a 4WD automatic and a 4WD manual. The manual 4WD is four wheel drive all the time while the automatic is only 4WD when user-initiated. The 2WD model features an automatic limited slip differential. Starting price points are, for the 2WD model $21,710; the 4WD manual at $22,890; and the 4WD automatic at $23,300. Our model came with a heap of options and the total settled in the neighborhood of around $28,000.

Key options to consider include the "Convenience Package" (Remote keyless entry system, cruise control, power outside mirrors with illuminated markers, rear privacy glass, rear wiper, rear Intuitive Parking Assist, Daytime Running Lights (DRL)) and the "upgrade package 2" (17-in. 6-spoke aluminum alloy wheels with P265/70R17 tires) and full size spare (exterior rear door mount), Active Traction Control (4WD models), locking rear differential, 115V/400-watt power outlet, AM/FM 6-disc in-dash CD changer, MP3/WMA playback capability and nine speakers (includes subwoofer with off switch), exterior color-keyed door trim inserts, multi-information display floating ball type (inclinometer, compass, temperature), leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated audio controls, aluminum brush transmission lever and transfer lever (transfer lever on 4WD models).


Engine
All three models of the FJ Cruiser are powered by a 4.0-liter DOHC 24-valve SFI VVT-i V6, which we found to be excellent both at highway speed or bounding around in low gear on a dirt road. At almost 4400lbs, the FJ is no small truck and performance was a question mark until we got behind the wheel, having experienced power-related problems in a couple of domestic brands. Our FJ never experienced that dreadful lag that some larger off-roaders are saddled with nor did we ever want for power, even with the air conditioning going full barrel. For our 4WD automatic. Toyota states a 17mpg city and 21mpg highway, but our experience was an average of 16mpg.

Interior
Here was a welcome surprise: a low-key, entirely functional, crisp and clean interior and ergonomic set-up. The FJ knows what kind of vehicle it is and cabin design reflects the lifestyle of your typical off-roader. Controls are big and instantly recognizable. The seats are comfortable on long drives and have the added benefit of being water-resistant. The floors and deck mats are completely washable and made of what Toyota calls a "rubber-like" material. Hmmm. Back-seat room is nice and wide, though a couple of our riders had some trouble finding their way back there.


Exterior Styling
Dramatic styling flourishes include a two-tone roof panel, massive wheels and tires, suicide doors (more properly called "rear access doors") and a very aggressive front and rear positioning. Our model had black bumpers and black trim above the wheels and blacked-out 17-inch wheels. The effect was hardcore. The side-view mirrors had side-marker lights on them which while very cool also caused a lot of double-takes due to resemblances to emergency vehicles. The FJ has about 10-inches of ground clearance on the 4WD model with skid plates on the engine/front suspension, fuel tank and transfer case. A full-sized spare is also included and it rides piggybacked on the rear gate.

Summary
The FJ Cruiser is a good all-around value for the off-roader and the suburban trawler. While there are certainly more refined vehicles at this price point, we'll bet that you have to look long and hard to find one so perfectly suited for outdoor life, valet appeal, and the general wear and tear suburban warriors put on their vehicles these days. Thoughtful design, a well-executed interior and a more than ample 4.0L V6 make the FJ one of our favorite SUVs to hit the road in a long while and a worthy addition to the storied Land Cruiser lineage.