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Toyota’s first stab at retro design resurrects the iconic 1960s Land Cruiser, a staple of off-roading as well as an enduring collector’s item.

FJ Cruiser, so named to celebrate the FJ designation of those tough utility vehicles that provided an early alternative to Jeep and Land Rover, carries the signature grille design and hood scoop of the old Land Cruiser, although the sculpted shape of the new body deviates from the boxy simplicity of the original.

FJ Cruiser seems to have launched yet another retro frenzy, a la VW New Beetle, Chrysler PT Cruiser and Mini Cooper, with hot anticipation among those who have seen photos of the Toyota in a host of publications. So right now, FJ Cruiser is the hottest thing out there.

A 2007 model, the SUV has not arrived in showrooms but is due in early spring. I was lucky enough to get my hands on a pre-production FJ with all the trimmings, including four-wheel-drive, 4-liter V-6 and automatic.

Of course, being the descendent of such four-wheeling acclaim, FJ needs to have its boondocking credentials in order. I took on some boulder-strewn trails, where FJ proved to be a competent and enjoyable off-roader that shrugs off rough terrain and climbs like a bighorn sheep.

The only challenge was a set of tires that didn’t grip well.

One of FJ’s big attractions is the surprisingly low base price, ranging from $21,710 for a two-wheel-drive version to $23,300 for four-wheel drive with automatic.

FJ Cruiser slots in between RAV4 and 4Runner, and Toyota should be able to sell as many as it makes.

PERFORMANCE: The 4-liter V-6 is remarkably powerful, delivering good muscle and acceleration under all conditions, from trail to freeway, and makes FJ feel eager to run. But it does like to slurp fuel.

The SUV is available with five-speed automatic or a sporty six-speed manual. The automatic seemed right on the money, with a shifter well-designed for manual gear changes. The 4×4 system is controlled by a separate shift lever that adds to the retro appeal, though some may miss the push-button operation of most modern SUVs.

DRIVABILITY: Even on the nastiest rocky trails, the beefy all-independent suspension soaks up the bumps while delivering precise maneuverability. Short overhangs front and rear allow sharp approaches and exits. On dirt roads, the handling and balance are impressive.

On the road, there’s no doubt that compromises have been made to better the all-terrain abilities. The suspension feels rubbery, and the steering is fairly slow, desirable on dirt but dodgy on pavement.

STYLING: The look is great and garnered a lot of attention from other drivers. The front-end design and white roof reflect the old Land Cruiser, but the new model is longer and more stylized.

FJ is based on the same platform that underpins 4Runner and Tacoma.

INTERIOR: The retro feel continues, with a squared-off cabin, a windshield that is flat and nearly upright, and big, chunky dials and switches, which are easy to manipulate.

The audio system was great. Seating is roomy, with loads of head, shoulder and legroom up front and fair space for three passengers in the rear. Clamshell doors give FJ the look of a two-door, while providing access to the back seat.

Rear vision was compromised by thick roof pillars.

BOTTOM LINE: A retro craft that is loads of fun with a modest price tag.

related Vehicle type: Five-passenger, four-door SUV, four-wheel drive.

Engine: 4-liter V-6, 239 horsepower at 5,200 rpm, 278 pound-feet of torque at 3,700 rpm.

Transmission: 5-speed automatic.

Wheelbase: 105.9 inches.

Overall length: 183.9 inches.

Curb weight: 4,300 pounds.

Towing capacity: 5,000 pounds.

EPA rating: 17 city, 21 highway.

Highs: Off-road prowess, cool styling, moderate price.

Lows: Vague steering, wimpy tires, significant blind spots.

Pricing

Base price: $23,300.

Price as tested: Not available.

OPTIONS

Pricing for optional features was not available, but optional equipment on the prototype test vehicle included rear differential lock, traction control, running boards, sonar backup assist, side curtain air bags, cruise control, power features and upgraded audio.

Shipping: Not available.