Sumo vs. Terminator - FJ vs. H3
Both Toyota FJ Cruiser and Hummer H3 are SUVs that can do anything. Design should be the least important thing, but it isn't so.
To my opinion, FJ is more aesthetically fun but Hummer has its unique advantages, one of which would be a "MTV rapper" feeling driver has when entering the driver's seat and Terminator feel when on the road.
On the other side, FJ turns into a sumo wrestler, more capable on more than one account.
Both cars are very comfortable, high drivers position ensures excellent front visibility, huge rear view mirrors help driving backwards. Large spare wheels dominate the backs of both cars.
Hummer's interior is far more luxurious than FJ's which is rather spartan. H3 is full of black leather and "titanium look" applications = overall, driver has a feeling that he's driving in the tycoon's office. Plus, Hummer is more spacious inside, especially at the back seats.
On the other hand, FJ has higher roof and therefore, more headroom. Its storage capacity is 1891l, which is 314l more than Hummer's.
H3's 3,7l 244bhp engine has an advanced alternator which should provide a better fuel economy. But, despite the technical tricks, H3 will burn 16l on average compared to FJ's 14l.
Clearly, none of the competitors will ever be a Greenpeace official car.
Toyota's 249bhp engine has similar characteristics to H3, but it's far more refined. Its 6 cylinder engine is faster and less noisy than 290kg heavier Hummer's engine. Plus, Cruiser has a modern 6 gear automatic transmission - Hummer's old 4 gear transmission loses another point here.
Toyota has a towing capacity of 2268kg which is 227kg more than H3. That's when US towing capacity standards are used - in Europe, difference is even bigger (2800kg Toyota, 2041kg Hummer).
When driven off road, FJ proves better, mostly because higher clearance (235mm) and very efficient traction control system.
To conclude, if you drive the American way and have extra 10.00USD to spend, then go after a Hummer.
More agile FJ Cruiser is better option for everybody else.
Restyled Aygo is on sale in March, while hybrid Toyota Yaris HSD is scheduled for May.
June is Prius month - that's when Prius plug-in and MPV Prius + will get into stores.
Second generation of Auris and new GT86 are scheduled for the end of the year.
Toyota's SUV flagship, Land Cruiser V8 (4.5l, 286bhp), is redesigned and will be on the market this year.
Cube chaped fog lights have replaced oval ones, and are integrated into a new front bumper, along with daily LED lights.
Front grille is also changed, as well as outside rear view mirrors and back lights.
After many announcements and two concept studies, Toyota has revealed long awaited sport coupe - GT 86. Cooperation with Subaru resulted in many similarities with Subaru's BRZ - it shares the same engine, a 200bhp 2,0l boxer, but has a lower mass center and better mass distribution (front 53%, rear 47%).
Toyota GT86 is successor to legendary Toyota's sport coupes - sport 800, 200 GT and Celica.