In the summer of 1951, the first Toyota Land Cruiser, designated the BJ, climbed to Checkpoint No. 6 on Mt. Fuji, a feat no other vehicle in history had dared to attempt. More than 50 years later, and over four million Land Cruisers sold world wide, the off-road torch of excellence had been kept but is now passed to the newest and best of the cruiser line, the FJ Cruiser.
MECHANICS
4.OL V6 DOHC 24 V 239HP
5-speed Auto 0/DR
Variable gear power steering
EXTERIOR
Black overfenders
Black bumpers (silver tone highlights)
White roof
Tow hooks (2 front 1 rear) mudguards
Silver tone door handles and mirrors
White Sandstorm color
COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE
8-way adjustable driver’s seat
Water repellent fabric on the seats
AM/FM, MP3, 1 disc CD player
Power door locks and windows
The FJ Cruiser sits tall and looks strong. During the time I test-drove the Cruiser, I was constantly asked questions about the vehicle. I never failed to attract a crowd, whether I was filling up with gas or trying to valet park at a restaurant, people wanted to talk about and look at the Cruiser.
The Cruiser is big and beautiful. It stands six feet tall, and has a width 74.5 inches. The overall length is 105.9 inches with a track (front/rear) of 63.2 inches. I got better than the EPA expected Fuel Economy Estimates of 17 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.
The price, mileage, styling, off-road capabilities, and ruggedness are the best that the FJ Cruiser has to offer.
Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this newspaper or at dcaussey@sbcglobal.net
