Toyota FJ Cruiser

The Toyota FJ Cruiser (FJC) is a retro-style compact SUV by Toyota introduced as a concept at the 2003 Chicago Auto Show and in production form at the following North American International Auto Show. On sale in early 2006 as a 2007 model, it features styling reminiscent of the original FJ-series Land Cruisers from the 1960s, but is based on the Hi-Lux platform also used by the modern 4Runner and Land Cruiser Prado.

The FJ Cruiser primairly competes with the Nissan Xterra, Jeep Wrangler and the Honda Element. Base pricing is between $21,000 and $23,000. Many enthusiasts of the original FJ series Land Cruisers have been very vocal in their opposition to the new vehicle, decrying not only its long wheelbase, but its lack of both a diesel engine and solid front axle as well. At 183.9 inches in length, the FJ Cruiser slots between the smaller RAV4 (181.1 in. overall length; originally rumored to be replaced by the FJ Cruiser) and the mid-size Highlander (184.6 in. overall length). The addition of the FJ Cruiser adds a sixth SUV in Toyota's American lineup, meaning Toyota will have two compact SUVs (the RAV4 and FJ Cruiser), two mid-size SUVs (Highlander and 4Runner), and two full-size SUVs (Land Cruiser and Sequoia). It is also Toyota's only vehicle in its current lineup to use the name "TOYOTA" spelled out across the grille like older Land Cruiser models such as the classic FJ40 the FJ Cruiser is loosely based on, as well as other Toyota models from the past.

Specifications
Engines
 * 4.0 L 1GR-FE DOHC V6 with VVT-i, rated at 239 hp (178 kW) at 5200 rpm, and 278 lb-ft (377 N·m of torque at 2700 rpm

Drivetrains
 * 5-speed A750E automatic transmission (on rear-wheel drive models)
 * 5-speed A750F automatic transmission with VF2A transfer case (on all-wheel drive models)
 * 6-speed RA61F manual transmission (with VF4B transfer case and limited slip differential on all-wheel drive models)

Safety
Complete NHTSA Safety Reviews for the FJ Cruiser can be found here. 

Unique Attributes
FJ Cruiser is one of few vehicles with Clam Shell Doors.

Criticisms
Meager headroom and extremely poor visibility are the main complaints of most people who have driven the FJ Cruiser.

"Normally, I like to reserve this spot for a Hummer as they are so deserving of the honour. Hey, I've got an idea, let's honour our fighting folk overseas by buying a Hummer, the faux-version of their combat vehicle, so we can suck up enough gasoline to keep them fighting overseas... Okay, enough politics, but how about honouring the faux of the faux: The Toyota FJ. It's ugly enough. It even shares lousy outward visibility with the militants from GM, along with aninterior that is rather self-important. You simply must have the simulated steel plate dash appliqué. With everyday sub-12L/100km fuel economy, the FJ does its part at the gas pump to support the psuedo-Hummer image. In all fairness, like the Hummer, the FJ is quite competent in the hinterland, where I wish it would stay" - Wheels Magazine