The FJ Cruiser by Toyota is a 4-door SUV that comes in two trims, the base model, and the Baja 1000. Catering to the young outdoor crowd, the FJ Cruiser comes with a hefty 4.0 liter V6 which pumps out 239 hp @ 5200 rpm and 278 lb.-ft. @ 3700 rpm. The drivetrain consists of a 5-speed automatic and rear-wheel 2WD or part-time 4WD. The full-time 4WD comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser is the design reincarnation of the original Land Cruiser. Ground clearance is impressive at 9.6 inches for the 4WD, and 8.7 in. for the 2WD. With skid plates on the engine, gas tank, and transfer case, the FJ Cruiser is nicely outfitted to go right to your favorite rock hopping venue.

The solid off-road engineering of the 2007 FJ Cruiser is continued in the all-business interior, with stylish but functional instrumentation, four hand grips, and water-resistant seats. With accessories like a front skid plate and rock rails, there will be no mistaking the Cruiser for a Jeep mail truck. Other aftermarket add-ons we like are the Garmin Navigation System and the TRD Performance Exhaust. Let's roll.

Let's talk a little about the safety features on the 2007 FJ Cruiser. With the powerful V6 in action, you will eventually need to stop, and stop you will with ABS, brake assist, and stability control in full effect. Driver and front passenger airbags are standard, as is the child restraint system, and side-impact door beams. FJ has the off-road cred, but it also has good road manners and comfort.

A quiet drive, even at highway speeds is partially erased by the poor visibility and sub-par fuel economy, 17 mpg city, 21 highway for the 4WD automatic. The 2007 FJ Cruiser is a promising addition to the Toyota stable which already houses a group of fine off-road stallions.