2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser

MSRP: $22,545
Angle of approach/departure: 34/30 degrees
Ground clearance: 9.6 inches
Turning radius: 20.9 feet

2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser + click to enlarge | view gallery >

An off-roader that’s cute and macho at the same time? Unlikely. But the FJ Cruiser is both. Borrowing just the right amount of retro coolness from the old FJ Land Cruiser that helped establish Toyota’s global reputation in the 1960s, the FJ Cruiser also packs modern sport utility running gear and clever packaging and features.

The interior isn’t very luxurious, but it’s comfortable, waterproof and easily cleaned up after romping in the mud. The small, rear-hinged “suicide” door aids access to the tight backseat. Defying its cuteness, the FJ Cruiser is serious when it comes to off-road capability; heavy-duty hardware includes protective skid plates, functionally protective frame rails, a capable four-wheel-drive system with locking rear differential and an impressive amount of wheel travel to help with off-roading. Despite the off-road prowess, it handles and performs well on the highway. It’s not only one of the most eye-catching SUV designs out there this year, it’s a great value, too, at $22,545.