Overview & Reviews
The Toyota FJ Cruiser is a midsize SUV that harks back to the company's iconic FJ40 Series of Land Cruisers. Like the old FJ40, the Toyota FJ Cruiser has superior off-road capabilities. It's built on a truck-based, ladder-frame chassis and features a stout suspension and drivetrain, sharing its underlying hardware with Toyota's 4Runner SUV. Toyota designed the FJ Cruiser to be a bit more specialized, however. Compared to the 4Runner, it's smaller, less expensive and more capable in off-road situations, and it's meant to appeal to younger and more active consumers.
Most Recent Toyota FJ Cruiser
The Toyota FJ Cruiser was produced from 2007 through 2014, with only relatively minor changes made throughout that eight-year run. A midsize SUV, the FJ Cruiser focused on off-road performance and thus in personality and in some cases styling (such as the grille and headlights), paid homage to the original FJ40 of the 1960s. The FJ Cruiser featured two standard front doors supplemented with a pair of smaller, reverse-opening rear doors to provide easier access to the rear seat.
The sole engine used was a 4.0-liter V6. Output depended on the year, as the first three years it was rated at 239 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque while for 2010 and later the specs stood at 260 hp and 270 lb-ft. Rear-wheel drive was standard and two different 4WD systems were available. One was a part-time system, while the other was a full-time system. All FJ Cruisers except those with the full-time 4WD came with a five-speed automatic; those with the full-time 4WD had a six-speed manual along with a locking rear differential.
There was just one trim level with the FJ Cruiser. Standard feature highlights included 17-inch steel wheels, air-conditioning, power windows and locks, a 60/40-split-folding rear seat, water-resistant cloth upholstery, Bluetooth phone and audio, a CD player, satellite radio and auxiliary/iPod/USB inputs. Options (which sometimes depended on region and model year) included alloy wheels, a rear wiper, a rearview camera, an electronic locking rear differential, rear parking sensors and extra gauges. Several off-road-oriented features (such as heavy-duty suspension components, tires, roof racks, driving lights, rock rails and cargo covers) were also available, as were similarly themed packages that usually included specific styling details.
Changes throughout the years were essentially limited to features availability. First year FJs offered optional side and side curtain airbags, but they were made standard for 2008, while the following year saw the debut of the rearview camera option, which we highly recommend. For 2011, the FJ Cruiser received an upgraded audio system and better access to the rear seat (which also gained folding headrests). Three years later, Toyota celebrated the FJ's last year with the limited-production (only 2,500 built) Trail Teams Ultimate Edition package.
With such serious four-wheel-drive systems available, a major draw for shoppers will be the vehicle's off-road abilities. The Toyota FJ Cruiser was designed to have considerable wheel travel, high ground clearance and a tough, fully boxed frame. The front suspension is independent with a double-wishbone design, while the rear features a solid rear axle with a four-link coil-spring suspension.
In reviews, the Toyota FJ Cruiser earned positive commentary for its impressive off-road ability, surprisingly fun on-road driving experience, comfortable front seats and distinctive exterior styling. FJ Cruiser drawbacks included limited outward visibility and a rear seat area that wasn't particularly comfortable or easy to access even with the reverse-opening rear doors.
User Reviews:
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Love my FJ Cruiser - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
By David Barber - January 1 - 10:36 amI love my FJ. Ive had it a few months and the car is great. I love the way it handles, accelerates and the feel of the drive. It is very roomy and comfortable.
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Excellent Vehicle - 2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser
By mjr88car - December 24 - 2:33 pmA great SUV for the money. Bought it for the Toyota quality and reliability and wanted the best 4x4. I have the manual with full time four wheel drive and my mileage is consistently 21-23 hwy and 19 city. Solid, fun to drive, and it does grow on you. I put on 2 blind spot mirrors which do help a lot. However I find that all the hype about the poor rear view is nonsense anyway. If you know how to drive its no problem. I fish in Canada and have gotten stuck with my old domestic 4x4 (dont know how they can call them true 4x4s). I finally bought something that will get me in/ out of less than poor road and landing conditions. Love the VSC and traction control. I rarely ever lock everything in.
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Extremely Fun to Drive! - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
By Tyree326 - December 23 - 4:23 amLove the utility of this vehicle. Was not looking for a luxury car with electric seats, heated seats, moonroof, etc. Toyota has done a great job with this one. Lots of head room and great for either city driving or off-roading. Averaging around 20 MPG between city and highway driving. Smoothest automatic transmission Ive ever driven! Anxiously awaiting a diesel option so I decided to lease. I chose the the Black Cherry FJ.
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It is so much fun to drive! - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
By Back9 - December 19 - 5:30 pmIt is fun to look at and drive. On and off road! It is my everyday vehicle and I would estimate 20 miles to gallon on my TRD FJ with Automatic. I have driven everything from a pinto to a lexus and for me this is the best vehicle I have ever owned. I am hard to please these days and Toyota did a good job building the FJ just for me. I guess its ok if they sell one to you too. :)
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FJ - Great Truck - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
By Italia317 - December 15 - 11:16 pmPurchased my Silver FJ Cruiser on 02/04/07. I did a lot of research on Edmunds as well as other sites before buying. The truck is def. a head turner, big, powerful, different. The interior has a lot of room, big knobs, stereo isnt too bad, a lot of compartments. Sideview mirrors are a little tough to get used to, but not too bad. As for the outside, I love it. Older drivers might have a tough time getting in w/o running boards, but its def a younger persons car. Gas mileage is ok, but its a truck so you cant expect much. Overall, I think its a great buy... powerful, fast, durable, and an attention getter. I would recommend it to anyone in the 25-35 year range.
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2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
By STEVEO - November 26 - 6:00 amThe FJs larger interior and move powerful engine along with its great 4X4 abilities make it the vehicle of choice for me.
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ordered and paid before id ever seen it - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
By zigsvoodooblue - November 18 - 9:36 amThis thing is so cool. Id have never bought an SUV or a Toyota if not for the FJ Cruser. I saw it as a concept and have been waiting for it. Im 62" and this is the first car Ive ever had where i didnt feel like i was pressed against the windshield. Its great on the highway, cruises comfortably at 100+mph, handles well, is quiet and easy to park. Best factory sound system ive ever heard.
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Utility is Back - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
By fjaddict - November 14 - 11:56 pmI was tired of all automatic, highly refined car-like SUVs that you could not dare get dirty. FJ is just what the doctor ordered: it is rugged, rubberized on the interior and built for utility all the way around. It is outstanding off-road. I take it on trails when I go on photo expeditions and camping with my kids. It is well- mannered on the roads and proves to be a fun commuter as well. In short, this truck does an exceptionally good job on and off the road. Of course it has lots of plastic and rubber; it is built for utility. Blind spots everyone keeps talking about have not been a problem; paring sonar and side mirrors do a good job of fixing all that. I love my FJ!
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My ICEBERG FJ - 2013 Toyota FJ Cruiser
By FJ Rocks - October 27 - 5:46 pmBest vehicle i have ever owned. Best of both worlds. I live in a remote area an do alot of driving an when the weather gets bad i need a suv that will preform safely for me an my family. This one is the best i have ever had. Drives great on road an will go where i need to go. I have owned alot of vehicles but nothing even compares to the fj. If you want a vehicle that will go like a jeep but last like no other buy a fj. Toyota made another great product with the fj. Too bad they dont sell them anymore in the us. I love it. An the aftermarket parts selection are unreal. You can make it customized to your liking in no time.
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Top Cat - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
By master mech. - October 27 - 5:00 amQuiet ride,excellent v6 engine,fit and finish a perfect 10, washable interior and comfortable seating. Add this up and you have a Top Cat on the block.
