Fusion FJ 

For its SEMA show debut, The FJ Company – which, as its name suggests, specialises in the restoration and modification of Toyota FJ Cruisers – made a splash with its most ambitious build to date. Dubbed ‘The Aspen Project’, it was commissioned by the company’s president, who wanted an FJ43 as suited to long-distance motorway driving as it is attacking the rugged countryside in Aspen, Colorado. As with all its builds, the FJ Company first undertook a full frame-off restoration, implementing modern creature comforts such as power steering, front disc brakes and air-conditioning at the same time. After a lick of matte white paint was applied (contrast with gunmetal grey for the wheels), the bells and whistles could be added – there’s a heavy-duty winch, a custom roll cage, scuff- and rust-proof floor lining and a modern 210HP Toyota engine, to name just a few. But despite the modern trickery, this FJ43 still retains that classic Land Cruiser look. We’d love to see how it would fare against a Twisted Land Rover Defender – twin test, anyone? 

Photos: The FJ Company