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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  Great niche truck - 2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By ed - August 26 - 3:46 am

  I absolutely love this truck. Styling is a matter of taste. The retro theme is appealing to me however, and I like having a truck that doesnt blend in. The engine is very powerful with a lot of low end torque, great exhaust note too. The suspension is made with off roading in mind and is a bit floaty with some body roll in the turns. Regardless though it is surprisingly fun to drive. Also very smooth/comfortable on the road/hwy. Was worried about wind noise w roof rack but no more than my Explorer had. Gas mileage avg 19 mpg mixed. Not bad considering: 4200 lbs, powerful engine, big tires, and styling sacrifices some aerodynamics. Back seat tight getting in/out but dont really ever use.

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  Love it!! - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By adventure - August 23 - 5:16 pm

  Have been looking at different sport utility for many years, since 2004 hurricane season. After seeing and reading about the FJ for one day and test drove it the next day. The decision was made!! Have had the vehicle for 3 months now, love driving it and never have to worry about driving in the areas that are prone to flooding. Love the smooth ride, it doesnt feel like Im driving a truck. It feels more like Im driving my sienna, but taller.

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  Favorite vehicle ever! - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By Big G - August 13 - 2:06 pm

  The looks were the first thing that drew me to the vehicle, then I read about the performance, then I drove it and compared it to a Wrangler unlimited. Even though the roof came off the Wrangler and the appeal of a convertible was high, I drive at least 20K a year and have family trips of 2,000+ miles...the Wrangler was like a stagecoach. I just got new tires after 45K and I feel like I can go ANYWHERE. The confidence I have in the FJ will someday get me buried, but it hasnt happened yet. I actually pulled an Esacalade out of the ditch the other day and the owner was simply flabbergasted at the capability. Lots of comments, some snide, mostly in admiration. So what on the blind spots...

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  This is offroad vehicle - 2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By boris rabinovich - July 21 - 1:13 am

  This vehicle is built strictly for off-road application. Dont buy it for the city use or for home-office commute. To park this car in the city is impossible task and this is not because of physical dimensions. It has too many blind spots, you always concern you might hit somebody. The backseat is not adjustable and people on the back have very little space. Besides the backseat passengers might got trapped in case of accident with no way out. You will not be able to open door if the people in the front got disable.

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  Love my FJ Cruiser! - 2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By Susan Signorelli - July 20 - 11:08 am

  I have owned my 2008 FJ Cruiser since 2009 when I bought it new! I absolutely love it. I am so disappointed that they have chosen not to continue manufacturing them. That is a real mistake, as the FJ is a fabulous as well as unique SUV! I am currently looking to possibly trade mine in for a new one, only because I want to be able to own one longer! Toyota rules, and it is by far the best vehicle I have ever owned. The milarky about the blind spot being a problem, as far as I am concerned, is a problem ONLY for "inadequate" drivers. I have no problem navigating this vehicle! Love it! Toyota, please reconsider and bring them back!!!!!!

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  Having Fun - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By Sue - July 17 - 12:23 am

  I love the car and it turns heads. I use it for daily driving to work and so forth and find it very easy to handle and comfortable to drive. Everyone Ive shown it to loves the look, inside and out. I feel safe on the road. I cant wait for it to snow so I can play some more!! Cant say enough good things about this vehicle.

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  Get an FJ TODAY! - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By misstella - July 12 - 9:20 pm

  It had been a long time since I purchased a new car. I was scared. Firstly, prices, car and gas, all the makes and models. Yuck! But alas, I walked in to Toyota, my first car was a 1982 Cressida, cautiously. To my surprise, I did not have to look any further. There she was! My next new car, well actually SUV, a 2007 FJ Cruiser. It was mine if she rode half as cool as she looked, and she did. I felt so safe. I felt so powerful. I felt so cool. Her engine growled, she sat up high, was easily manuverable, and built like a tank. Her gas mileage wasnt awful, her price was almost palpable, $35,000 after all the bells and whistles. So, caution to the wind, I really loved this SUV, so I bought it!

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  Nothing Compares! - 2013 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By Sawboss - June 22 - 3:45 pm

  Ive owned a Jeep Wrangler, 4x4 Tacoma(2011) and older 4x4 S10 and a Civic. I can say, without a shadow of a doubt, that the FJ is the funnest vehicle on the road! It blows the Wrangler out of the water! Lots of power, great suspension, lots of leg room. I could go on and on. Off road in the mountains of Tennessee or the Orange Groves of Florida its second to none! You can take the FJ virtually anywhere. Love this vehicle! Never getting rid of it! Great in Rain or Snow. Toyota made an amazing vehicle in the FJ.

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  Another great Toyota product - 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By toyotaman - June 22 - 9:16 am

  The vehicle speaks to Toyotas continued committment to quality, reliability, value and importance of carrying on an off road tradition with the highest integrity. A commendable achievement in itself that is only strengthened by the implementation of technology and ingenuity that allows us weekend warriors to drive to work in comfort and style. Well done Toyota!

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  Always wanted offroad - 2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  By Great Deal - June 21 - 2:23 am

  Ive wanted the FJ after the 1st one I saw. And after getting it, I love it. I do a lot of off roading and with a just few add-ons its ready to go. I dont have kids and dont think I would have gotten if I did. For me, the wife and a couple of dogs, its all I need. The interior is great for clean up. I got the all weather mats and its just a spay down with the hose to clean. The big 4.0L V6 has the power I need off roading or blowing away the "on the phone soccer mom" on the road. It does go through the fuel and you may want to bring some extra on those long trips to the middle of nowhere. There is plenty of head room which has been a problem for me in the past.