The Toyota FJ Cruiser: Breaking the Styling Mold

Toyotas growing popularity hasnt been without controversy. No, the automaker doesnt have much of a quality issue to contend with and, no Toyota isnt likely to begin losing market share anytime soon. Yet, there is one area where the Japanese automaker has a bit of a perception problem and that has to do with styling. Of course Toyota vehicles arent ugly but there are few models being built today that are truly exciting. All that is now beginning to change as Toyota releases several head turning models including the latest rendition of its popular Camry sedan and one of its newest models, the FJ Cruiser. Keep reading and well take a glance at just how Toyota is breaking one mold by breaking new ground.

Maybe it was the success of the Nissan Xterra or perhaps it was the desire to recapture past glory [or something in between] but Toyotas decision to build the FJ Cruiser may not have been an easy one. With a line up filled with various trucks and SUVs, the proposed FJ Cruiser would not only be competing against the Jeeps and Land Rovers of the world, but with some of its own models including the car based Highlander and the versatile, truck based 4Runner. Still, the model was thought to stand a chance for two reasons: the FJ Cruiser is a retro-styled vehicle taking its design cues from the FJ40 of the 1960s/1970s and for its 5 passenger seating capacity: just the right sized vehicle that consumers would want to take off roading.

Yes indeed the FJ Cruiser is one beast with an 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 heralded relative by climbing over rocks, surging up hills, and navigating sandy terrain with relative ease.

Retro styling. Much like Chrysler, Ford and GM which have each successfully introduced and sold retro styled vehicles, the FJ Cruisers two tone body, restrained roofline, and painted black bumpers effectively combine the old model with the new.

Safety features everywhere. Available as a 4x2 or 4x4, the FJ Cruiser comes with vehicle stability control and vehicle traction control along with ABS, brake assist, and electronic brake force distribution for added stopping capabilities. Add in optional driver and front passenger seat-mounted side airbags and side curtain airbags for front and rear passengers and the FJ Cruiser has riders thoroughly protected.

Dependable engine/transmission. Not to take too much of a risk with this model, Toyota snagged the same 4.0L engine powering the 4Runner and other Toyota trucks of its size and stuck it under the FJ Cruisers hood. A five speed automatic or six speed manual transmission helps the off roader triumph as it scales rocks or takes steep hills.

The interior of the FJ Cruiser is anything but austere, but it certainly doesnt rise to the level of the overdone Land Cruiser, not a bad thing though. Power windows and door locks, keyless remote entry, and a six speed CD radio are some of the features found in this model. On the outside, 17 inch steel wheels do their part in helping the vehicle tow as much as 5,000 pounds. Whatever you choose not to tow can be stuck inside or carried on top; with the second seat folded down the FJ Cruisers ample storage area is tops in its class.

Best of all, the base FJ Cruiser retails for just over $21,000 with 4x4 versions selling for about $2,000 more. One drawback reported by consumers is dealer price gouging: some buyers are claiming that dealers are adding four to five thousand dollars to the sticker price of every FJ Cruiser sold.

Finally, if it is fuel efficiency you are seeking the FJ Cruiser just isnt there. Average fuel economy of 20 mpg is not terrible, but it is not great either. Chances are if you are interested in a vehicle like the FJ Cruiser, then fuel economy will be one of your least concerns at least Toyota hopes so.

Truly it appears that Toyota has gotten the styling side of their house in order with this capable retro 4x4 vehicle as evidenced by strong sales in a vehicle segment that has been hit hard by high gasoline prices.

Copyright 2006 Matthew C. Keegan is a freelance automotive writer covering products from the Tornado Fuel Saver to quality, wholesale priced Toyota parts.

Nissan Truck Part
Jeep Lift Kit
All Weather Tire
Bushwacker Fender Flare Jeep
Jeep Tail Lights
4x4 Truck Wheels
Car Show Model
Jeep Lift Kit
Merchant Tires
4x4 Tire

Mountain Biking and It's Types

Mountain biking can be divided into nine different categories. Each category offers a new challenge for players. The different categories of mountain biking are:

1. Cyclo cross

Cyclo cross is hard, fast and much more than running with your bike through mud.

Cyclo-cross racing takes some of the technical skills of a mountain biker and is a cross between road and mountain biking. These riders have to go over obstacles, cross through rivers and rafts, and race on and off the course.

2. BMX

BMX cycles have 20 inch wheels and is the style of BMX biking. As these bikes have smaller wheels and shorter wheel bases, therefore these bikes are commonly used at skate parks or in dirt jumps. BMX bikes are good to perform tricks and stunts with.

3. Cross country

Cross Country Mountain biking involves riding bike up and down mountains and in hilly areas. It is one of the most difficult type of mountain biking but there are riders who are fit and go on long rides in these mountains.

4. Downhill

Downhill mountain biking means racing down the mountains with a bike. This type of riding is very intense and extreme, offering riders the chance for ultimate thrills and excitement.

5. Dirt jumping

Dirt jumping is a type of mountain biking that involves jumping the bike over large man made dirt jumps and then doing tricks while they are in the air. These jumps are placed close together so riders can go over six or more jumps in one run to gain a flow to give them more speed for bigger jumps.

6. Single speed

This is a form of cross country biking that's done using a bike with only one gear and fewer components. Main reason for single speed is simplicity of bikes and the game. Fewer components mean less mechanical problems, a lighter bike and provide efficient pedaling.

7. Freeride

Free riding game is very extreme as it involves finding the perfect path down the mountain using all of the terrains. These types of competitions are very popular among bikers as riders can show their expertise and fitness.

8. Trails

In trails bikers use bikes with 20 or 26 inch wheels and sport small, low frames. Although the bikes used for trails does not look like mountain bikes but trials can be considered as a part of mountain biking. Trail bikers need extreme amount of balance and concentration as they have to hop and jump their bikes over obstacles.

9. Street and urban

Street and urban riding is done in urban areas, ledges, and with other types of man made obstacles. Riders of street and urban biking will do tricks such as stalls and grinds very well.

Phillip Culver is the author of many recreation related articles. To read more articles please feel free to go to: http://www.recreationdirectoryonline.com

Pro Comp Tires
Nexen Tires
4x4 Truck Tire
4 Wheel Trucks
Jeep Lift Kit
Skyjacker Lift Kits
Jeep Body Lift
Jeep Muffler
Jeep Cargo Racks
Jeep Xj Bumper