• Brandchannel, Monday, November 20, 2006 11:15 AM

Concept cars don't usually move from auto-show stage to auto lot very quickly, but Toyota's FJ Cruiser is an example of a brand following the wishes of its potential market. When the FJ was first introduced at the 2003 Chicago Auto Show, it attracted so much attention from onlookers and journalists that Toyota moved the car into production a scant six months later.

The FJ Cruiser is both utilitarian and funky chic. Unlike many other compact SUVs and especially CUVs (or crossover utility vehicles), the 4x4 version is designed for true off-road driving. Conspicuously absent are any traces of carpet, leather or burled wood trim options. But some models sport bright primary colors, such as "Voodoo Blue" and "Sun Fusion" (yellow) topped with a white roof, black and silver accents, and softer lines, making the FJ Cruiser look like one big Matchbox car.

Aimed primarily at men looking to escape to the great outdoors, the design aesthetics may equally appeal to women, too--as long as they don't plan on bringing the whole family along for the ride.

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