Like many clean-sheet designs, the FJ Cruiser had a few flaws when first debuted that Toyota later remedied. Early 2007 models featured poor differentials. Many were fixed under factory warranty. Another design problem on 2007 and 2008 models caused the engine bay’s inner fender aprons to bulge and crack, leading to structural difficulties. Finally, the FJ Cruiser received an engine update in mid-2009. Initially, they were powered by a 4.0-liter “1GR-FE” V-6 with single variable valve timing (VVT-i), and premium fuel was suggested to unleash all 239 horsepower. For the 2010 model year, the V-6 was improved with dual VVT-i that increased output to 259 horsepower on standard 87 octane. No wonder 2010-and-later vehicles sell for around $15K more than a 20072008 model in comparable condition.
If you want to make other FJ Cruiser owners envious, keep an eye out for a decent Trail Teams Edition. They include an improved Bilstein suspension and a distinctive monochrome color scheme that changed each year. In 2013 and 2014, Toyota installed the CRAWL control system, which uses a load of computers and sensors to increase low-speed traction on loose ground, although many collectors don’t believe this worth the extra expense. From 2008 through 2014 (excluding 2009), Toyota made 14,700 Trail Teams Editions.
The pice de rsistance is the one-year-only 2014 Trail Team Ultimate Edition which had Heritage Blue paint and a white grille replicating a popular color on the original FJ40. Off-road performance was further upgraded with an external reservoir rear suspension system and aluminum TRD skid plates that improved the approach angle. Low-mileage examples trade hands around $60k.
The FJ Cruiser was one of the rare times in Toyota’s history where fun was an intrinsic component of the design process. This, coupled with Toyota’s famous reliability and off-road history makes for a winning mix. Like many classics, the FJ Cruiser was not appreciated enough in it’s time and has improved with age.
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Toyota still offers the FJ for sale?
2014 was the final model year for FJ Cruiser before it was discontinued. But with adventure-ready Toyota vehicles like the 4Runner and the off-road capable TRD Pro Series, excitement and capability continue to exist. There is a tough Toyota 4×4 ready to take you exploring, no matter who you are. You will continue to receive excellent servicing from your local Toyota Service Center if you currently possess a FJ Cruiser. Search for a Toyota Certified Used FJ Cruiser below or Keep It Wild with 4Runner.
A FJ is it worth it?
The FJ Cruiser developed a cult following thanks to its distinctive vintage look, capability, and reliabilitydespite never exceeding sales targets. A used FJ Cruiser merits serious attention and won’t let you down if you’re seeking for a flexible mid-size SUV but don’t have the money for a new one.
The vintage SUV, which borrows styling inspirations from 1960s and 1970s Land Cruisers, made its debut as a concept vehicle at the 2003 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Fans and the automotive press both gave it favorable reviews, which prompted Toyota to create a production version that debuted at the same auto show two years later.
At Toyota’s subsidiary Hino Motors in Hamura, Japan, production began in 2006, and it is still going strong today for markets like Chile, the Middle East, the Philippines, and South Africa.
The FJ Cruiser was offered in the United States, where it was primarily intended to be sold, from 2006 to 2014 and received numerous accolades and favorable reviews each year.
Even though fewer than 200,000 of these cars were sold in the nation during this time, they managed to attract a devoted following thanks mostly to their dependability and off-road prowess. Due to these factors, it has grown in popularity among buyers looking for a unique yet versatile SUV, and its resale value has even risen recently. Pro: Dependable engines and transmissions
Any FJ Cruiser has a reliable 4.0-liter V6 under the hood. The engine had a single variable valve timing (VVT-i) from 2007 to 2009 and generated 239 horsepower (178 kW) and 278 lb-ft (377 Nm) of torque.
Dual VVT-i technology, which adjusts timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts, was added to models starting in 2009. This technology produces 259 horsepower (193 kW) and 270 lb-ft (366 Nm) of torque.
The SUV is available with either a rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive system, the latter of which can be either permanent or intermittent. It employs either a five-speed manual gearbox or an automatic with five or six speeds, depending on the drivetrain.
Few used SUVs can match the level of dependability that the engine and transmissions have established for themselves, even after years of abuse from off-road driving.
It is important to note that certain owners of 2007 models with automatic gearboxes have claimed that their FJs tremble at speeds between 35 and 45 mph (57.2 and 76.2 kph) because of gearbox issues. So, if you find a 2007 model you want, be sure to look up the transmission’s service history and pay attention to this problem when you test drive it. Pro: Known for its off-road skills
The FJ Cruiser’s well-known off-road ability is another incentive to think about getting one if you enjoy off-road excursions or simply need to drive through challenging terrain frequently.
Part-time 4WD vehicles have high and low-range ratios with automatically locking front hubs, whereas four-wheel drive models equipped with the five-speed manual have a full-time 4WD system that uses a central Torsen locking differential.
The approach, departure, and ramp-over angles are great due to the FJ’s smaller overall size and wheelbase, allowing it to confidently crawl over any terrain.
Some versions made after 2013 have the practical CRAWL feature, which modifies the brakes and throttle on five low-speed levels so the driver can concentrate on steering.
The SUV may easily be transformed into an extreme off-road monster because to the abundance of aftermarket off-road-oriented improvements available.
Six airbags are included as standard equipment on all vehicles made starting in 2009, including two front, two side, and two side-curtain bags that also protect passengers in the back seats.
The NHTSA awarded the 2007 and 2014 models five stars for front driver, side driver, and side rear passenger protection, four stars for front passenger protection, and three stars for rollover protection. The IIHS awarded the 2007 and 2014 models a Top Safety Pick.
Despite the fact that there are a lot of good reasons to think about purchasing a used FJ, the car is not without faults. Pro: Limited visibility The FJs are also well-known for having poor visibility because to the design’s numerous blind spots. To determine whether this is a deal-breaker, make sure to test drive one extensively as it might be a serious issue until you become accustomed to certain locations. Con: Tight, difficult-to-access backseat
For the driver and front passenger, the inside provides exactly the appropriate level of comfort and ergonomics, but the backseat is congested and provides limited legroom for an average-height adult. The narrow rear “suicide” doors, which can only be accessed after opening the front doors, make it difficult to reach as well. Con: Inefficient fuel usage While 201011 versions are rated at 17/21 mpg (13.8/11.2 liters per 100 km) on ordinary gas, FJ Cruisers manufactured from 20072009 have a city/highway mpg of 16/20 (14.7/11.7 liters per 100 km) on premium petrol. With a 17/20 mpg (13.8/11.7 liters per 100 km) rating and only requiring ordinary gas, more recent versions made between 2012 and 2014 are also more fuel efficient.
The FJ Cruiser is unquestionably a fantastic SUV, and you won’t regret purchasing a used one if you can live with these drawbacks.
There are obviously a lot of things to consider when you purchase one, so we advise that you thoroughly investigate its service history and arrange a pre-purchase examination before finalizing the deal.
The cost of an excellent FJ Cruiser can range from $15,000 to $35,000, depending on the model year, drivetrain, and equipment.
What did a brand-new 2007 FJ Cruiser cost?
The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2007 FJ Cruiser starts at $22,555 and rises to more than $35,000 when fully outfitted. Since the beginning, our Fair Purchase Prices have reflected actual selling costs that are $1,000 to $4,000 higher than those sticker prices.
Why did Toyota cease production of the FJ?
The first stone in the FJ Cruiser’s coffin was the recession of 2008, which signaled the beginning of declining sales and the end of profit. To honor Toyota FJ Land Cruisers, the Toyota FJ Cruiser had its concept premiere in 2003. As 2006 year models, the first production models hit the market. They were designed as a vintage off-road vehicle and were first highly well-liked.
Unfortunately, Toyota was severely impacted by the 2008 recession, which had a negative impact on FJ Cruiser sales. Although it was performing well prior to then, it was ultimately canceled by 2014. That was partly due to the FJ Cruiser’s likeness to the original Jeep.
Toyota wanted to build an off-road vehicle that stood out from the rest of what they were producing at the time, and the FJ Cruiser was their attempt to do that. The FJ Cruiser was discontinued in 2014 as a result of Toyota’s decision that the sales were too poor to justify the manufacturing costs associated with developing a second generation after the recession officially began.