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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  Higly recomended car when you have small kids - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By smoramx - April 10 - 10:03 am

  I took the decision to buy an FJ because is very practical when you have kids; every time the kids spill water or any other liquid its really easy to clean up. Kids cant open the back door or roll down the rear windows. The privacy glass prevents the sun in kids face. I buy the 2x4 version which I first regretted, but living in LA and with small kids its a little difficult to go off road anyway. I took it to a Baja trip for a total 3,000 miles (very little off road) and its very comfortable and smooth.

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  Not for All - 2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By Patrick Goungo - April 6 - 2:23 pm

  This vehicle is only for young people. If you have infants or small kids, very bad for them, no room.

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  FJ Cruiser - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By Dan Bridges - April 1 - 1:06 am

  the FJ Cruiser handles well on the road. It has good response when you step on the gas. Also holds the road well around turns. It does not give you the feel that you are going to roll over or lose control.

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  Terrific Vehicle - 2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By FunSaut - March 9 - 1:40 am

  Does it all - loves the mountain twisties - loves to play in the snow - loves to get dirty - loves the dirty dog. Sure, 40 mpg would be nice - so would a neck massage! Its quirky, its fun, its practical and, boy, is it yellow!

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  2010 FJ Trail Team - 2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By Rick - March 3 - 9:16 am

  This is a head turning vehicle with lots of performance. The Special Edition TT is only available in Sandtone and it is sharp. The wheels really make it. Roof rack going on next week. It feels like its very well constructed. Its not about luxury, it is about off road. I think its got plenty of power. I have to admit, I do miss the heated seats.

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  Great truck... Fun! - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By ev611 - March 3 - 3:23 am

  We recently leased one. We call it Toyotas Hummer but much better, roomier and a great ride! Good fuel economy. Easy to park and great acceleration, off the road capabilities. Great choice!!

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  Fun in the FJ - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By Playa del Sur S.P.I. - February 26 - 3:43 pm

  I have owned this truck for a week and can not wait to take it to South Padre Island next week. One unique thing about this truck is that not very many people have one, and you can build your own. It makes you feel great when everyone is staring.

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  It rocks, the bumpers are lame! - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By FJ Brent - February 11 - 9:26 pm

  My standards are very high as my other vehicles are all German (Porsche & Audi) but this truck is great! On and off road manners are really great. It handles and performs very well for an SUV. Off road it is superior to most stock off road vehicles that ive seen at the Jeep Jamborees and the like. The engine, suspension, and chassis are really great. This is a fun SUV to drive and I would never say that about SUVs in the past as they are all too sluggish. The FJ proves me wrong with its strong performance, excellent ride, and great off road capability and toughness. My hat goes off to them for really getting the value built into this truck. Overall, it is an awesome package for the $.

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  Lovin my FJ - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By Smitty - January 26 - 7:16 am

  This is a great all around vehicle. I traded a Grand Cherokee and dont regret it for a minute. Performance on and off road is better than I could have imagined. If you want the best bang for your buck, get the FJ Cruiser! Hello Toyota! Glad to meet you.

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  Dream SUV reincarnated - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By Lucky Jack - January 21 - 4:36 am

  I have waited for over 30 years for this vehicle. I always wanted an FJ40 Land Cruiser, but could never get one. Now, I have the vehicle that is fun and still makes sense... no more poor fuel mileage from those Chevy Tahoes I used to drive. Yet, I can still pull the little boat and go hunting/fishing. PS... I have to allow at least 30 extra minutes when I go anywhere, just to talk with the people who want to see the car and find out all about it. I love this cruiser.