2011 Toyota FJ Cruiser

Inside, Toyota keeps it simple, with a basic, almost drab instrument panel, punctuated with matte-metallic highlights. The dash has a chunky, technical look, with traditional round gauges separated into clusters, while meshy seating and contrasting, exposed body-color inserts establish a serious basic-truck attitude.

The 2011 FJ Cruiser is built from some of the same components as the last-generation Toyota 4Runner, so it shines off-road—especially when considering its shortened wheelbase and additional ground clearance. Skid plates protect the underbody, and components are tucked into frame rails. Suspension tuning aims to get good wheel articulation without making too many on-road sacrifices, and the FJ can ford up to 27.5 inches of water; approach and departure angles for the FJ are among the best of any stock vehicle.

Considering that, on-road performance isn't quite the afterthought you'd expect. The FJ does quite well, even on the highway, provided the path is relatively straight, but in any corners its height, tall tires, and hefty 4,300-pound curb weight get in the way of any attempt to change direction quickly. Maneuverability remains disappointing, though; the FJ doesn't turn around as easily as you'd expect, and it feels wide in anything but full-width parking spots.

With a cramped backseat, and difficult access back there due to small rear-hinged back doors, it's best to think of the FJ as a vehicle for two plus gear. Up in front, most will find the driving position and front seating comfort to their liking, In back, yes, it's small and disappointing, and only kids will be able to fit comfortably; the huge step up to get in can be a hindrance, too. Those looking for a lot of storage compartments for smaller items and electronics might also be a little disappointed.

Ride quality is just okay, seemingly capable of soaking up minor imperfections here and there but becoming harsh and bouncy on the worst road surfaces; on rough surfaces, there's a lot of sideways 'head toss' that could be fatiguing. Refinement in general is also something that you shouldn't expect very much of in the FJ Cruiser. The engine is coarse and vocal during acceleration, and at highway speeds, a combination of tire noise and a slightly boomy engine note conspire to wear you down.

The insurance-funded IIHS has rated the Toyota FJ Cruiser 'good'—its best score—in frontal and side impact, as well as the seat-based rear-impact test, but it only earned an 'acceptable' rating in the new roof strength test—which seems especially important for tipsier off-road-oriented SUVs. In the former federal tests the 2010 and earlier FJ had earned four- and five-star ratings for frontal impact and a top five-star showing in all aspects of side impact.

Given the FJ Cruiser's tall, rather narrow-windowed design, you'd be correct to guess that outward visibility isn't that great. It can be challenging, and for a better look out during parking, we recommend the optional rear parking sensor system.

Toyota has upped the FJ Cruiser's standard tech content this year, and its set of features is very impressive and should appeal to younger buyers who want to go everywhere but stay connected and entertained. Audio systems have been reconfigured for 2011; all FJ Cruisers now include iPod connectivity and XM satellite radio, in addition to a USB port, Bluetooth audio streaming, and a Bluetooth hands-free system with steering-wheel controls. In addition, there's a new JBL premium audio option.

For dedicated off-roaders, there's a standard rear diff lock, A-TRAC active traction control, and a multi-information display (inclinometer, compass, temperature) available. The All Terrain package includes all of the above plus BF Goodrich Rugged Trail tires, 16-inch aluminum wheels (steel wheels are standard on the FJ), Bilstein shock absorbers, a Cyclone air precleaner, and a trip computer.

For 2011, the FJ Cruiser takes even better aim at its target audience with a Trail Teams Special Edition, in Army Green with black bumpers, grille, and door handles. This model also gets an easy-clean cyclone pre-air cleaner, to capture grit, plus stronger 12-volt and 120-volt outlets, water-resistant seats, and rubber-like flooring, in addition to all the equipment of the Off-Road Package. Inside, the JBL premium audio system is included.

A Convenience Package (remote keyless entry, cruise control, power mirrors, and other luxuries), rear sonar parking assist, an eight-speaker audio system with six-disc CD changer, an attractively built-in subwoofer, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, and a 115V/400W power outlet.

The Toyota Racing Development (TRD) sport package remains available, too. It comes with Bilstein off-road shocks designed to reduce brake dive and squat, as well as enhance straight-line stability, also including TRD-specific 16-inch rims with BF Goodrich all-terrain tires; an all-black exterior paint scheme; and TRD performance exhaust and rock rails.

On the other hand, if you need a serious off-roader and nothing else works, the FJ isn't any worse of a choice for the environmentally concerned than any other hard-core off-roaders like the Xterra or Jeep Wrangler.