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 the FJ cruiser. - 2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser
By Kal - April 12 - 9:26 amBought this car after a lot of research. I am a big Toyota fan and this car has lived up to my expectation. Used to drive a RWD Mercedes Benz and just hated driving it in the winter in Iowa. But this car drives like a champ and is so comfortable. My boys (8 and 4) love the car and can sit comfortably in the rear seat. Blind spot is no big deal. if you drive well you get used to it just like anything else in life. Would not miss out on the other great features of the car because of that.
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FJ is the best dollar value available! - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
By MelloFJYellow - March 2 - 10:40 amThis is by far the best value vehicle on the market today! It is so fun to drive, extremely rugged, very well-built, and has looks without comparison! There is no other vehicle on the market today that has more going for it, especially at such a low price! Please, just do yourself a favor - no matter what other vehicle you are interested in, give the FJ a try with a test drive and you will wonder why you ever even considered any other vehicle! It truly is that good!
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Had to get one. - 2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser
By rle1875 - January 3 - 3:33 pmI thought about the fj for two years, and then in a matter of 5 hours went to Larry Miller Toyota and bought one. Silver with White top. Looks fantastic. Runs great. Lots of power. Very quiet when cruising. Great unique styling, nothing really like it. Smooth ride. Very stable. Safe on snow and ice. Sits up high. Long trips are very comfortable. Plan to keep it forever.
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Fun car, great value - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
By Dr. Jamie Pleasant - January 3 - 6:56 amLove the car. The looks got me and just to own something that is different on the road is a plus. It is a fresh break from car and suv boredom and ho hum designs. I also own a bentley continental flying spur and this is my have fun dont care car.
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WHATARIDE - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
By WillieB - December 31 - 7:53 amIve only had this vehicle a short time, but the offroad capability, comfort, and ride are all exceptional. I really did not expect this new design to be so well conceived, but being a multiple Toyota owner, was not surprised. I do wish high test gas was not required, but so far, that is the only feature I would change.
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Fun - 2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser
By Rodger - December 11 - 7:16 amI just bought this last week and drove it 5 hours to San Diego. This is far more comfortable than I thought it would be. This car gets a lot of looks. I had it raised 6 inches and it looks amazing.
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My FJ - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
By John - December 5 - 1:30 amMy first Toyota was a 72 FJ40 after 200,000 miles it was time for a 4runner in 96 and then the new FJ Cruiser in 07, what a great machine. Moab, no problem, city driving awesome. I did change out the lame stereo for a Pioneer nav unit MTX amps, speakers and a much needed back-up camera. I hope to get 200,000 miles with the FJ. I had to replace the windshield after taking a big rock, $1100, boy are they proud of it.
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Read it and Ride it...then youll buy it - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
By KATS RIDE - November 29 - 2:13 pmI went on a trip to AZ and asked for a SUV rental. We got an FJ. For one week, I fell in love. One year passed, and last week, I went and bought one. Total happiness. Went from a BMWZ4 to this. No complaints. None. Not a van, nor a 4 door same ole same ole SUV. I like the cup holders and hidden compartment in dash for my stuff! This SUV drives unlike any other I have had, and that includes, Pathfinder, Navigator, Expeditions. Better because it strikes a hit in the unique ride and rides exceptionally well. No truck feeling here. Performs great, rugged but functional. And just take your time backing, just like the BMW, go slow and look. No worries!! I will have this for a long, long time!
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FJ Cruiser 4X4 - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
By IIZFISHIN - November 25 - 10:36 amThis has got to be one of Toyotas best from its exterior styling to its rugged interior design and yet one of the most comfortable SUV rides Ive had. Toyota again had their head on straight for this one. I cant wait to get this thing out in the wintertime.
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Just what youd expect... - 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser
By tahoclimbr - November 23 - 10:56 amIf you are considering buying this car, you are likely looking for something rugged, durable, reliable, and fun to drive. This meets all expectations. I have had my 2012 FJ for 1 month now and couldnt be happier. It gets the same gas mileage as a the Highlander, drives and handles great, is actually just as quiet (or quieter) than my friends Audi S4 (except at speeds over 70mph, then of course there is more wind noise). I get compliments everyday on the car. Its spacious, reliable, rugged, unique, fun to drive, handles snow/ice/mud great, what else do you want? If youre considering buying this vehicle, its just what youd expect.
