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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  My Little Mini-Hummer - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By aggie_fj - March 3 - 8:03 pm

  This vehicle is awesome. I first read about the FJ when I was deployed to Iraq. For circumstances beyond my control, I did not purchase this vehicle until just recently. All I can really say is that this vehicle is awesome. I absolutely love all the features on this vehicle. I purchased it as a Certified Used Toyota in Houston, TX.

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  Fun and quirky - 2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By Raider - February 20 - 10:00 am

  In spite of some minor design issues, the FJ is the best do-it-all, purpose built SUV on the market. If you dont need/want 4 full doors and dont routinely haul adult back seat passengers, it is extremely comfortable and spacious. It is absolutely the best vehicle I have ever owned for off road performance and handles winter road conditions with ease (I have had three jeeps - no comparison). The blind spot issue has received too much attention. If you know how to use rear/side mirrors you will not have a problem. Wind noise is surprising low in spite of cool "rolling brick" aerodynamics. Bullet-proof engine and transmission. Interior is simple and controls are well thought out. FUN!

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  My 2nd FJ - 2014 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By dano100 - February 9 - 1:27 am

  The FJ Cruiser is the perfect vehicle for our situation. We have 3 dogs, a pop up camper and live in Ohio, where the winters can be rough. The rubber floor and water resistant seats, the ability to tow 5,000 lbs. and the off road and bad weather capabilities make it a joy to own.

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  A real Winner - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By Doc 10is - February 5 - 11:16 pm

  Excellent; V6 engine, easy wash interior, comfortable seating, concept car looks, good value, side airbags, FJammer radio, large dials and Toyota history. All this adds up to a real winner. The FJ should win many awards in the next few months.

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  FJ is Awesome! - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By DaveT - January 25 - 3:16 am

  This is a great eye cather and fun to drive!

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  Love my FJ - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By charles s - January 13 - 9:40 pm

  My FJ has been a great vehicle to own. I have added some extras to make it even nicer and more fun to drive. Have BBS rims, nerf bars, Clarion DVD nav stereo, bull bar with skid plate and the ever popular back up camera. It accelerates nicely for a vehicle this style. Very easy to accelerate to 100 quickly. Runs great in the snow. The cons would have to be gas mileage, unstable in windy conditions (gusty over 30 mph winds). I feel it is very roomy inside as I am 65 230. My kids are 10 and 7 and have no problems getting in or out the back doors. Maybe a bit more room in the back would be nice. Have used only synthetic oil since purchase and have added a K&N filter. A solid 9 out of 10.