Auto News 5

Even though the FJ Cruiser is a stale model in Toyota's lineup, it's still fun to slap on a new package that appeals to the off-road enthusiast crowd. This particular FJ is wearing the Trail Teams Special Edition package ($6695 mind you), which consists mainly of exterior features like: unique Sandstorm paint, blacked-out hood, sideview mirrors, and grille. But my favorite is the black, beadlock-look wheels with beefy BFGoodrich all-terrain rubber. It really sets it apart from other FJs on the road-or trail more like it. The package also comes with a locking rear differential, backup camera integrated into the rearview mirror, and Bilstein shock absorbers.

The Venza is a clear case of a good design that has been ravaged by cost cutters. Toyota nailed the basics: the Venza drives like a mid-size sedan (albeit a boring one) and offers as much utility as larger crossovers. It even would even be attractive save for its overly fussy front fascia. What kills the Venza is its inexcusably cheap interior. The cheap, mismatched graining of the plastics and the impreciseness of the panel fits on the dash is just the sort of work we used to slam in Fords and Chevrolets.