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FJ Cruiser scoops 4x4 of the (102)

Toyota's FJ Cruiser capped off its first year on sale in Australia by winning 4x4 Australia magazine's 4x4 of the Year title.

FJ Cruiser beat the Jeep Grand Cherokee diesel, Range Rover Vogue TDV8 and Mercedes-Benz G 350 BlueTEC to take the top prize.

4x4 Australia editor Fraser Stronach said FJ Cruiser had finished the competition strongly, winning favour with the six experienced judges. "Coming into the week-long 4x4 of the Year test, the FJ Cruiser was very much the outsider and a good deal behind," Mr Stronach said.

"But as the testing unfolded and the kilometres rolled by, the FJ proved itself to be the real deal and not just a 'look-at-me wannabe'.

"Don't be fooled by the FJ Cruiser's toy-car styling as, underneath, lies the well-proven and robust mechanicals of Toyota's immensely popular Prado."

Toyota Australia executive vice president David Buttner said the award recognised Toyota's concerted effort to bring exciting new products to the market.

"FJ Cruiser underlines Toyota's prowess in four-wheel drive vehicle design backed by popular retro styling," Mr Buttner said.

"It is the latest vehicle in the Toyota range to bring renewed energy to our brand alongside the Rukus and the upcoming 86 sports car."

4x4 Australia magazine will publish the 4x4 of the Year feature in its February 2012 edition.