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interior design...stays true to the original FJ philosophy by being straightforward and functional rather than overly stylized and littered with gimmicks
Edmunds' Inside Line »
a modern African safari vehicle
MSN Autos »
styling is very retro and the black matte hood sticker adds even more of a throwback look
AutoWeek »
the temperature-control knobs look like they belong on a Lego Duplo play table
Car and Driver »
STYLING | 10 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
interior design...stays true to the original FJ philosophy by being straightforward and functional rather than overly stylized and littered with gimmicks
Edmunds' Inside Line
a modern African safari vehicle
MSN Autos
styling is very retro and the black matte hood sticker adds even more of a throwback look
AutoWeek
the temperature-control knobs look like they belong on a Lego Duplo play table
Car and Driver
The Toyota FJ Cruiser’s styling hasn’t changed much since its launch half a decade ago, but that’s a good thing as the in-your-face looks and retro cues are what make the vehicle so special. The lines are inspired by the 1960s-era FJ40 but have been updated with a cartoonish look that’s somewhat comical yet still very cool. The only thing that comes close to matching the FJ Cruiser in terms of styling would be a HUMMER, but since they’re no longer sold the Toyota is now a relatively unique option in the new car market.
The design is also practical in some areas. The FJ Cruiser’s side access doors, for instance, open 90 degrees in clamshell fashion for easy rear-seat ingress and egress. Additionally, a swing-up glass hatch is incorporated into the side-hinged rear door and can be opened independently for quick access to trunk.
The chunky, almost technical look continues into the cabin which is dominated by a somewhat drab instrument panel featuring matte-metallic highlights. Traditional round gauges are separated into clusters in the dash, and meshy seating with contrasting body-color inserts establish a serious basic-truck attitude.
Conclusion
No other SUV on the market can match the panache of the Toyota FJ Cruiser, guaranteeing owners will standout wherever they go.