2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser

The Toyota FJ Cruiser has changed very little since its introduction five years ago, and during that time the range of serious off-road-worthy models hasn't changed much. Hummer is now gone, and Jeep has honed its Wrangler, but the FJ Cruiser remains one of the better bets for off-road toughness and trail prowess.

The FJ blends retro and contemporary so well that its design should be quite ageless. Looking a bit like a vintage 1960s-era FJ40, crossed with modern cues from the 4Runner and Land Cruiser, with a MINI Cooper-like edge, the FJ Cruiser looks ripe for the trail, yet like a stylish accessory that would make as much of a statement parked in front of an outdoor outfitter as in front of Urban Outfitters. Inside, the appointments are intentionally stark, with body-colored panels and simple gauges and sturdy switchgear.

The 2012 FJ Cruiser is built from the sturdy underpinnings of the last-generation Toyota 4Runner, with off-road ability the priority. Especially when considering its shortened wheelbase and additional ground clearance, it shines off-road. Skid plates protect the underbody, and components are tucked into frame rails. On the trail, you'll find good wheel articulation, without making too much of a sacrifice on-road, and the FJ's approach and departure angles and water-fording depth (27.5 inches) are better than other stock vehicles.

Considering that, on-road performance isn't quite the afterthought you'd expect. The FJ does quite well, even on the highway, provided the path is relatively straight, but in any corners its height, tall tires, and hefty 4,300-pound curb weight get in the way of any attempt to change direction quickly. Its 260-horspower, 4.0-liter V-6 provides strong performance from a standing start, whether with the five-speed automatic or six-speed manual, though it's not as quick on the highway.

Source: www.thecarconnection.com

GM Offers to Buy Back Volts From Owners

General Motors Co. will buy back Chevrolet Volt from any owner who fears the car is a fire risk amid a U.S. safety investigation of its lithium-ion battery, the auto maker said Thursday The offer comes along with to GM's move this week to offer loaners to 6,000 U.S. Volt owners in an effort to reassure customers after three crash-tests resulted in fires or sparks from the vehicle's complex battery pack days or weeks after they sustained damage.

As of Thursday morning, 33 Volt owners asked for loaners, GM said. The company has been telling customers since Monday that they could return the cars, but so far no one has taken GM up on the offer, GM spokesman Selim Bingol said "If someone asks, we'll snap it up in a second," Mr. Bingol said. He said GM is confident the car is safe, but wants to ensure Volt customers are comfortable with their vehicle.

GM is working to head off a publicity crisis around the Volt, a car the auto maker has been touting for years as proof it cares about the environment and can deliver cutting-edge technology The Volt has delivered mixed results for GM since it launched this year. The car was widely lauded as a technological feat and won high praise among critics and owners. On Thursday, Consumer Reports said the Volt scored the highest rating in their annual owner satisfaction survey, with 93% of buyers saying they would purchase the vehicle again. The survey was taken before the battery issue.

Source:online.wsj.com

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