2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser

Designed to look the classic FJ-40 Landcruiser, the Toyota FJ Cruiser is a modern marvel. It boasts an impressive 8” of wheel travel in the front and 9” in the rear. When combined with the trick off-road suspension, and either of the two 4-wheel drive systems, the new FJ is as competent off-road as the original FJ.

Unlike the original, the FJ Cruiser features a smooth and comfortable asphalt ride. There's mild body lean in the curves, but it doesn't give you that “Ahh I'm going to tip over” feel, thanks in part to its nicely weighted steering and wide stance. Road manners are great for a body-on-frame SUV, and it feels just as capable on-road as it does crawling up a mountain trail.

Power comes from Toyota's 4.0-liter V6. While it won't win any stoplight races, the FJ has more than enough power to get you where you're going. And if where you're going happens to be off-road, then you'll get to enjoy one of the FJ's excellent 4-wd systems.

Toyota FJ's fitted with the 5-speed automatic get a part-time system with low-range. While 6-speed manual trucks get the full-time system from the 4Runner. This system sends 40% of the engine's power to the front wheels and 60% to the rear. With the differential locked in, it splits power 50/50 for terrific crawling power.

The interior for the Toyota FJ Cruiser is as fun to look at as the outside is. Bits of the dash are painted to match the exterior and the whole thing is a modern/retro masterpiece. Controls are logically placed within the upright dash and have that Lexus-quality.

Clamshell doors provide easy access to the rear seats, which will hold two comfortably and 3 in a pinch. Fold them down and you have a nearly flat floor. There's a cavernous amount of cargo room and the waterproof floor is perfect for carrying your wet, dirty gear.

The Toyota FJ Cruiser is a unique truck that manages to combine the best modern features with old-school capability and style. This is a lifestyle vehicle for people who like to grab life by the horns.