2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser

Inspired by the cult status attained by Toyota's legendary FJ40 4x4 utility vehicle, which roamed from 1960 until it was discontinued in 1983, the Japanese automaker looked back for inspiration to include in its forward thinking off-road vehicle.

The original FJ40, from which much of the FJ Cruiser's design inspiration was gleaned, is still a highly sought collectible. Many design cues, such as the front grille with five inch round headlights, to the contours of the hood and fenders, to the externally mounted full-size spare tire can be directly attributed to the classic design of the original. Unique design ideas such as the swing-type rear doors help to set the FJ apart from its rivals.

The FJ Cruiser is powered by Toyota's 4-liter V6 engine fitted with dual overhead camshafts. The package is also equipped with variable valve timing with intelligence (VVTi). This fitment produces 239-horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque.

The FJ drivetrain runs the gamut from two-wheel to 4x4. Buyers of the 4x4 have a choice of an electronically shifted five-speed automatic or a six-speed manual gearbox. The automatic features an adaptable shift pattern that reacts to road conditions as well as driver's input. With the manual tranny, a transfer case utilizing a Torsen® limited slip differential, transfers power 40:60 from front to back. Based on steering angle and wheel slippage, the differential can switch to a 50:50 ratio, as needed. Power is delivered to the pavement by way of P265/70R 17 tires.

Built on a boxed steel ladder frame attached to the FJ Body, it incorporates a double-wishbone suspension in front with nearly eight inches of wheel travel. In the rear, power is transmitted by a solid rear axle while a four-link coil-spring suspension with over nine-inches of wheel travel smoothes the ride. The suspension is fitted with disk brakes on all four corners; 12.6 inch in the front and 12.3 in the rear. The tires are fitted on black steel wheels, or optional alloy rims. The alloys have proven to be the more prevalent choice. Still, we like the tough, off-road appearance the black steel wheels provide.

Safety aids include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with traction (TRAC) control. Dual stage driver and front passenger airbags are combined with 1st and 2nd row curtain shield and front seat mounted side airbags to provide an inflatable environment in case of mishap.

Toyota has seen fit to provide a range of optional convenience packages to help personalize the FJ Cruiser. Options include power outside rear view mirrors, rear clearance sonar, and active Traction Control. Round out the package with a roof rack and an AM/FM six-disc cd changer with woofer, and you have a vehicle as entertaining inside as it is outside!