In addition to the noisy (optional) exhaust, the restricted visibility is starting to get to me. The mirrors do make a big difference and are helpful on the highway but backing out of a parking space is an excersise in faith in my fellow motorists - and boy do I hate having to practice a faith I just don't have.
Still, at the end of the day I love the way this truck looks good just sitting in the driveway - or just about anywhere else you can park it. It's attractive and somehow looks a little smaller than it really is - nice job Toyota designers...
The FJ is never going to take the place of four door SUVs and it's hauling capacity makes you appreciate even a small pickup but like a lifelong bachelor or a 10 year old kid the FJ is always ready to play.
Brian Moody - 12,726 miles
rsholland says:
08:15 AM, 09/ 5/06
Anyone taking any bets as to how long it will take Toyota to address the lousy outward rear visibility?
I say 3 years.
maxwell3 says:
11:30 AM, 09/ 5/06
Does your test vehicle come with the parking assist sensor? If so, Is it still a pain to back out even with the sensor working?
desmolicious says:
03:07 PM, 09/ 5/06
The sensor only helps with immobile objects. It doesn't help if a car comes by. By then it's too late.
briancam says:
08:09 PM, 09/ 5/06
Our FJ does have the parking sensor and that makes the truck MUCH less daunting in parking situations - I can't imagine buying this vehicle w/o the parking sensor. Still when backing out of a driveway it doesn't help with cross traffic - ditto for the local mall that insists on having diagonal parking spaces. Try pulling this thing out when a Suburban or F-150 super crew parks next to you. It's even worse if the offending truck has a "hey I'm in high school" lift kit.
briancam says:
07:54 AM, 09/ 6/06
Making the FJ Cruiser with a removable top would eliminate the visibility issues.