Which Toyota SUV Is the Best Off-Road? FJ Cruiser vs. 4Runner TRD vs. Lexus GX

Well, the answer is yes and no. As it turns out, the GX is actually pretty decked with off-road-worthy technology, and that's because it is essentially a Land Cruiser Prado in fancy dress. Between its crawl control function and its low transfer case, finding traction will never be a problem. However, finding ways to cross certain obstacles without damaging the body panels might be.

The Lexus GX has an air suspension to mitigate that factor, but even in its highest setting, the approach and departure angles - as well as break-over, thanks in large part to its side steps - are nowhere near what you would need out on a rocky trail. And, indeed, all our suspicions are confirmed as soon as the first real obstacle emerges: the GX is forced to give up, reducing the number of contenders to two.

Deciding between the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro and the Toyota FJ Cruiser is going to be a tough task. On the one hand, they're largely the same vehicle, making any technical-based differentiation difficult; on the other hand, they are very different in spirit and looks, with one focusing on being practical, while the other spends a little more time than it's recommended admiring itself in the mirror.

The climb up the trail does little to separate the two, though, by the looks of it, it's the 4Runner that had an easier time getting up. However, that might be more down to two aspects that don't necessarily say anything about the cars themselves: the tires and the driver's approach.

As far as tires are concerned, the FJ Cruiser is equipped with a set of Cooper Discoverer ATs, whereas the 4Runner TRD Pro also uses ATs, except it's Nitto Terra Grapplers. Not much setting them apart there, so it should be mostly the driver. Indeed, it looks like Tommy has a softer, more discreet approach, which often sees him struggling to get over obstacles, whereas Nathan in the TRD is never shy when it comes to pressing the throttle.

So, are we getting a definitive answer here? We're afraid not. The two are evenly matched, and they both make good off-roaders. The FJ Cruiser offers worse viewing angles, but it more than makes up for it with its design and character. The 4Runner is a workhorse, though maybe not so much in this TRD Pro trim, meaning it's capable without making much fuss about it. In the end, it's all a question of personal preference and, of course, money.