2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser

The FJ Cruiser is in many respects the anti-Toyota. It unapologetically shuns practicality in favor of style and attitude, and it unflinchingly focuses on one mission -- off-road performance. Fuel economy and comfort? Not so much. The FJ has the same solid bones as the 4Runner, including a meaty 4.0-liter V-6 that provides as much muscle -- and makes almost as much of a racket -- as a V-8. A live rear axle, a standard manual transmission, and a locking limited-slip differential back up the tough-guy looks. The trail teams special edition package goes even further, with specially tuned Bilstein dampers, skid plates, and unique wheels and tires. It also comes in a distinctive shade of red, which surely makes you faster both on-road and off. Just be sure to mind the blind spots, which are huge. Toyota attempted to address the blind-spot issue last year by adding fold-down rear headrests, but the giant C-pillars and chopped windshield remain. That windshield makes itself heard during highway cruising, as do the slab sides and chunky tires. These gripes can't overcome the larger point that the FJ is one of the most fun Toyotas to drive, not to mention one of the most capable and best-looking off-roaders offered by any manufacturer.