Toyota FJ Cruiser vs Jeep Wrangler

Made for the US and Middle East (hence no diesel option), this is a retro-styled rendition of Toyota's early FJ45 off-roader. It's quirky but works. There's only one model and features include satnav, cloth upholstery, rubber flooring and 17-inch alloys. It gets Toyota's low-cost capped-price service program at $1260 for three years, at six-month intervals. Resale is 55 per cent.

Top-shelf Overland is comprehensively kitted-out with satnav, seven-speaker audio with UConnect streaming and hands-free connectivity, DVD player, heated leather seats and 18-inch polished alloy wheels. No capped-price service program and service intervals are six months. Resale is 53 per cent.

Not a lot of room inside. Rear door is side-hinged but opens wrong way (into traffic) thanks to US-build spec. Rear doors are small and are rear-hinged so there's no central door pillar, making it easy to enter, but the floor is high. Big, bold dash controls toughen up the look. Long roofline with near-vertical windscreen helps keep heat out of cabin.

Same as previous years, decades almost. The four-door Unlimited is almost 4.8m long but cabin room isn't generous. Luggage space is generally poor though rear seats can be folded and removed. Dash design and switchgear are bold to give the impression of ruggedness. Height makes access awkward. The big roof-mounted subwoofer creates wonderful sound but interferes with rear passenger view.

Based on previous Prado, the FJ gets short overhangs for superior off-road capability. Shares its 4.0-litre petrol V6 (200kW/380Nm) with Prado and HiLux, as well as the five- speed auto and two-speed transfer case with part-time 4WD. Toyota claims 11.4L/100km from a 159L fuel tank that reduces fuel stops but magnifies refilling cost (about $240).

Other than connectivity, there's not much state-of-the- art stuff here — it's an off-roader. The 3.6-litre petrol V6 (209kW/347Nm) turning five-speed auto and two-speed transfer box is common to Chrysler-Dodge and, soon, Fiat. Drivetrain claims 11.7L/100km from 85L tank. Despite the removable plastic roof (soft-top is included) it weighs a meaty 2053kg and can tow 2000kg.

Not tested though has "good" rating in US. Prado base indicates four stars. Six airbags, blind-spot monitor, electronic stability and traction control, rear camera and full-size spare.

Gets a four-star crash rating though it has a big safety list of electronic aids including a control for trailer sway. There are also four airbags, rear camera, tyre pressure monitor, heated mirrors, auto headlights and full- size spare.

Similar to the Wrangler, though relationship between the seat and controls is less jarring. Lots of blind spots like Wrangler, and the FJ's standard sensor is welcome. Engine less responsive than Jeep but equally quick, with more accurate steering that makes it easier to drive over long distances. Remarkably agile in the dirt.

Perhaps one of the worst driving positions of any vehicle. Very soft seats counteract a firm ride, outward vision is poor, the pedal placement is offset and the switchgear isn't particularly easy to find. But the engine and gearbox are responsive and the Jeep will kick along with surprising ease. Unbeatable off the road.