Every big auto show has an unexpected hit, a vehicle that no one expects but everyone wants. At the mammoth Detroit auto show two years ago, that surprise punch belonged to a quirky sport-utility concept known as the Toyota FJ Cruiser. Not surprisingly, the FJ Cruiser quickly made it to production and is now available as an early 2007 model. Clearly targeted at the young sports enthusiast, the FJ Cruiser is Toyota's response to Nissan's popular Xterra. With roots stemming from Toyota's legendary FJ40 off-roader of the 1960s, the new middle-weight FJ Cruiser rides on a modified Prado chassis, a body-on-frame utility not sold in the U.S, while sharing much of its running gear with the more familiar 4Runner and Tacoma. The 5-passenger ute sports a classically upright, wide-track body, atop modern 17-inch wheels. Virtually all of its styling cues favor the original FJ40. From the simple mesh grille and round headlights to the white cap roof and wrapped rear-corner windows, the new FJ fashions a uniquely functional yet throw-back form. Power, however isn't retro at all. The new FJ dons the 4Runner's 4.0-liter V6 with variable valve timing. Rated at 239-horsepower, it is more than able to back up the FJ's terrain trekking image. To manage its thrust, Toyota provides a trio of modern drive choices: rear-wheel drive, part-time 4-wheel drive with a 5-speed automatic, and full-time 4-wheel drive with a 6-speed manual. The manual includes a clutch-start cancel feature that allows one to start the vehicle without disengaging the clutch. This helps keep the FJ from rolling backwards down a grade during a restart after a stall. All 4X4s have a hi-low gearing and a minimum of 9.6 inches of ground clearance, whereas 4X2s come standard with an automatic locking rear differential. A combination of full-size front doors and smaller rear-access panels provide entry into the also retro-rugged interior of the FJ Cruiser. Here, the austere simplicity of big knobs and simple layout meets modern conveniences such as 6-speaker CD audio, tilt wheel and 60/40 flat-fold rear seats. The cargo floor, like most of the interior, is designed to shed water better than a duck's back. Bulky cargo and oversized sports gear are easy to manage thanks to a rear-load door that opens away from the curb. Small items can be accommodated through the door's flip-up glass. While you might ride in retro style, occupants have all the modern safety one could desire. While curtain airbags are optional, ABS, traction control and stability control are all standard. The 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser is a lot of carefully updated throwback fun. While primarily aimed at younger buyers with a penchant for playing in the mud, it's classic appearance and standout performance will likely give it far wider appeal. If you have to get dirty, the FJ Cruiser is the way to do it. If your SUV needs lean a little to the extreme, be sure to catch our MotorWeek road test of the 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser on episode #2532. It airs on PBS during the week beginning April 14 and on SPEED beginning April 20. Click here to find out when your local PBS Station airs MOTORWEEK. |
