Toyota’s growing popularity has not been without controversy. No, the automaker doesn’t have many quality issues to deal with and Toyota is unlikely to start losing market share anytime soon. However, there is one area where the Japanese automaker has a little perception problem and it has to do with style. Of course, Toyota vehicles aren’t ugly, but few truly exciting models are being made today. All of that is now beginning to change as Toyota launches several attention-grabbing models, including the latest version of its popular Camry sedan and one of its newest models, the FJ Cruiser. Read on and we’ll take a look at how Toyota is breaking a mold by breaking new ground.

Maybe it was the success of the Nissan Xterra or maybe it was the desire to regain past glory. [or something in between] But Toyota’s decision to build the FJ Cruiser may not have been an easy one. With a full lineup of various trucks and SUVs, the proposed FJ Cruiser would not only compete against the world’s Jeeps and Land Rovers, but also some of its own models, including the car-based Highlander and the versatile truck-based 4Runner. Still, the model was thought to have a chance for two reasons: The FJ Cruiser is a retro-styled vehicle that takes its design cues from the FJ40 of the 1960s / 1970s and for its 5-passenger seating – the vehicle of the correct size that consumers would want to take off for the road.

Yes indeed, the FJ Cruiser is a beast with attitude and an effective competitor in a sea of ​​SUVs. For the money, this is what you get with the standard model:

Land Cruiser style and versatility. As the original Land Cruisers were noted for their off-road prowess, the FJ Cruiser matches its advertised relative by climbing rocks, climbing hills, and navigating sandy terrain with relative ease.

Retro style. Like Chrysler, Ford and GM, which have successfully introduced and sold retro-styled vehicles, the FJ Cruiser’s two-tone bodywork, understated roofline and black-painted bumpers effectively blend the old model with the new.

Security features everywhere. Available as a 4×2 or 4×4, the FJ Cruiser comes with Vehicle Stability Control and Vehicle Traction Control along with ABS, Brake Assist, and Electronic Brake Force Distribution for increased stopping ability. Add optional side airbags for the driver and front passenger and side curtain airbags for the front and rear passengers, and the FJ Cruiser has passengers fully protected.

Reliable engine / transmission. To avoid taking too much risk with this model, Toyota hooked up the same 4.0L engine that powered the 4Runner and other Toyota trucks of its size and tucked it under the hood of the FJ Cruiser. A five-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission helps the off-roader succeed while climbing rocks or climbing steep hills.

The interior of the FJ Cruiser is anything but stark, but it certainly doesn’t rise to the level of the overdone Land Cruiser, although it’s not a bad thing. Power windows and door locks, remote keyless entry, and a six-speed CD radio are just a few of the features found on this model. On the outside, 17-inch steel wheels help the vehicle tow up to 5,000 pounds. Anything you choose not to tow can be brought inside or carried with you; With the second seat folded down, the FJ Cruiser’s ample storage space is the best in its class.

Best of all, the base FJ Cruiser retails for just over $ 21,000 and the 4×4 versions sell for around $ 2,000 more. One drawback reported by consumers is the excessive price hike from dealerships – some buyers claim that dealerships are adding $ 4,000 to $ 5,000 to the label price of every FJ Cruiser sold.

Finally, if it’s fuel efficiency you’re after, the FJ Cruiser just isn’t there. The 20 mpg average fuel economy isn’t terrible, but it’s not great either. Chances are, if you’re interested in a vehicle like the FJ Cruiser, fuel economy will be one of your minor concerns – at least Toyota hopes so.

Truly, it appears that Toyota has put the styling side of its house in order with this capable retro 4×4 vehicle, as evidenced by strong sales in a vehicle segment that has been hit hard by high gas prices.