Toyota FJ Cruiser is radical retro and all the rage

It’s safe to say no other sport utility vehicle looks like the 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser. It’s tough as nails and boldly designed so it’s unmistakeable on the road. And it’s radical, unconventional looks are driving young thrill-seekers to the brand.

While it may be over-the-top in design, its price isn’t. Starting at $29,990, it’s a steal compared to some of the competition. A 2007 Hummer H3, for example, starts at $39,995. And the base model is well-equipped with dual stage front airbags, power locks, power windows, air conditioning, and an AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with mini-jack and six speakers. Features, such as cruise control, a clearance and backup sensor, keyless entry, remote control power mirrors, side and curtain airbags, are optional.

The FJ turns heads everywhere — it’s a stark contrast to Toyota’s conservative image. Funky colours like black, cheery pearl, voodoo blue or sun fusion yellow make it impossible to ignore.

The FJ Cruiser’s rugged style is evident in the interior, too. Everything is super sized in the cabin. The controls are chunky and large; they’re easy-to-operate and find, even in the dark.

The FJ Cruiser seats five. The fabric covering the seats is dark, durable, and water repellent so stains are a thing of the past. If you get mud or dirt in the cargo area, the rubber-like flooring makes it a cinch to clean, too. From the driver’s seat, you have a commanding view of the road ahead. Entering the back seat is easy. The doors open wide and the step-in height is moderate so getting into the FJ isn’t too cumbersome. The back doors are rear-hinged with no pillar in between; they swing out to the rear and open 90 degrees so there’s plenty of room to step inside. But you have to open the front door first — there is no door handle on the outside back door.

If you decide to go off the beaten track, the FJ has a ground clearance of 245 mm. It can also tow 2,268 kg and carry 601 kg. Anti-lock braking system with electronic brake-force distribution, vehicle stability control and traction control are also standard features. At highway cruising speeds, the FJ Cruiser is stable. But it’s thirsty; fuel economy is rated 14.5L/100km in the city and 11.2L/100 km on the highway. Unfortunately, premium fuel is recommended.

The 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser may be a true off-roader, but for me, it’s a cool cruiser whose radical retro looks are all the rage.