We frequently get this inquiry! The early FJs were originally known as BJsthey having a Type B engine, not an F, which is why the “J clearly refers for “Jeep and the “F signifies the engine type.
In This Article...
What is FJ Cruiser?
Since 2006, Toyota has been manufacturing the retro-styled mid-size SUV known as the FJ Cruiser. The FJ Cruiser made its debut as a concept car at the January 2003 North American International Auto Show. After receiving favorable consumer feedback, the FJ Cruiser was given the go-ahead for production, and the finalized version made its debut at the January 2005 North American International Auto Show.[2][3]
The Toyota subsidiary Hino Motors in Hamura, Japan, has been producing the FJ Cruiser since 2006, and it shares many structural components with the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado.[4]: 96 The FJ Cruiser debuted on the Japanese market on December 4, 2010, after its announcement on November 25.
The FJ Cruiser was still produced for sale in other markets, such as Australia[6][7], until its export to that market was stopped in August 2016. On 5 November 2013, Toyota USA announced the 2014 model year Trail Teams edition would be called the “Ultimate Edition” and that the 2014 model year would be the last for the FJ Cruiser in that market. It is still offered in places including Chile, the Middle East, the Philippines, and South Africa as of April 2022[update].[8][9]
On September 12, 2017, the “Final Edition” of the FJ Cruiser was made available for purchase in Japan[10]. On January 31, 2018, sales of the FJ Cruiser were halted there.
Why did Toyota halt the FJ Cruiser?
I love mid-size SUVs, so learning that Toyota ceased producing the FJ Cruiser shocked me. It was unsurpassed in terms of traction control performance and suspension strength.
The FJ Cruiser is one of the few SUVs with well-known off-road prowess, a distinctive retro appearance, and a dependable engine; its discontinuation would necessitate searching for another car model with comparable attributes, which can be difficult given the Toyota selection.
When sales of the FJ Cruiser fell off, Toyota stopped making them. The decline in sales was primarily caused by the recession. The FJ Cruiser was discontinued as a result of complaints about its poor lateral grip performance, constrained load capacity, visibility problems, and uncomfortable rear seats.
The FJ Cruiser is still regarded by auto aficionados as a dependable and illustrious SUV that deserved to be resurrected. Interestingly, after Toyota stopped producing it, its resale value increased. In this comprehensive explanation, we go into greater depth about why this occurred.
Here is what we learned about this adaptable mid-size SUV and the reasons it was canceled after speaking with a number of automotive specialists and conducting our own investigation.
What is the foundation of the Toyota FJ?
The FJ idea is notably smaller than the gigantic 100-series Land Cruiser and bears style influenced by the iconic 40-series SUV. The 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser is the result of the FJ Cruiser idea. The FJ Cruiser is a whimsical homage to the iconic 40-series Land Cruiser and resembles the concept from earlier in the decade.
What about a new FJ Cruiser from Toyota?
Toyota has a history of building tough off-road SUVs, including the luxury Land Cruiser, the 4Runner, and the FJ Cruiser. While the Land Cruiser will stop being sold in the United States starting in 2022 and the FJ Cruiser hasn’t been offered here since 2014, Toyota is determined to maintain its position as a leader in the off-road segment as the automotive industry shifts to electric vehicles, and it will soon introduce a tough compact electric SUV. The Compact Cruiser EV concept foreshadowed the boxy appearance, tough bumpers, and body cladding of the SUV. The electric engine is unknown, but given the rapid torque of electric motors, it should be reasonably speedy and capable of handling tough terrain.
How long is the lifespan of a Toyota FJ Cruiser?
So you want to purchase a high mileage secondhand FJ? Few 4WD vehicles can possibly compare to the dependability and toughness of the Cruiser series. These SUVs are constructed strong by Toyota, and if you read the comments left by the many satisfied FJ cruiser owners in the hundreds of forum threads, you’ll be persuaded that it’s one of the safest used SUV 4WD purchases available. There are a few problems, though, and I’ll go into more detail about those a little later.
If the scheduled maintenance and services have been performed, FJ Cruisers can travel well over 250K miles without experiencing any mechanical issues. With only routine maintenance and a few minor cosmetic faults, many owners have driven their vehicles well past 300K miles.
Therefore, it is crucial to confirm that a used FJ Cruiser has a comprehensive service history, either at the Toyota agents or with a reliable private workshop, before making the purchase. For these FJs, mileage is less of an issue than how well they were maintained.
Many owners are really pleased with their purchases and speak highly of the build quality, dependability, and durability of them. The FJ is an extremely capable off-road vehicle, suited for long drives or whatever 44-track you’re willing to subject it to. It will effortlessly eat up the trails and transport you home in complete luxury.
The eccentric, retro styling is obviously not to everyone’s taste when it comes to design, proving that beauty is subjective. I adore it, for sure!
Let’s see what one owner had to say:
I recently purchased a 2011 FJ. 123,000km on the clock. I gave it my 3.6 Rubicon in exchange. I liked the Jeep and couldn’t be happier.
Therefore, these cars’ dependability and longevity are really what make them beautiful. Clearly, mileage is not a concern. You should be fine to go if you look hard and long for the one you prefer, test drive it, and make sure it has a complete service history. These 4WDs don’t have any shady plans in place to take advantage of you once you’ve spent your hard-earned money. They have a sturdy construction. It’s a rather secure purchase.
The fuel consumption of these JF Cruisers is, in my opinion, their main drawback. Definitely thirsty!
The 2010 models have seen minor fuel economy improvements since their 2007 debut. For variants with two or four wheels, the FJ will achieve city fuel economy ratings of 14 to 17 mpg and highway fuel economy ratings of 19 to 21 mpg.
Expect those numbers to fall considerably lower if you want to customize the FJ with larger tires, lifts, and roof racks. You’ve now been forewarned.
However, those who purchase these automobiles don’t necessarily do it in order to consume less fuel.
Do FJ Cruisers frequently experience issues?
FJ Cruisers: Are They Reliable? The FJ Cruiser receives a 3.5 out of 5 reliability rating from RepairPal, placing it 12th out of 26 midsize SUVs. The model typically has an annual repair and maintenance expense of roughly $506. This is less than the $573 average for medium SUVs.
Are FJ Cruisers becoming more expensive?
In 2020, something happened. From selling one or two FJ Cruisers annually to selling more than two each month, classic vehicle auctions. The base model’s median sales prices increased significantly, from roughly $14,000 in 2019 to $27,500 in 2020, and then increased again to $30,450 in 2021.
FJ Cruiser was succeeded by what?
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.
Why are the tops on FJ Cruisers white?
Actually, Toyota was among the first automakers to take action against the threat of global warming far back in the 1940s, and the FJ Cruiser was the vehicle that revived the concept. Due to the success of this idea, ALL Toyota products, including those under the Lexus brand, will have a white roof starting in 2015. There will be no price for repainting the TRDs that you may have seen with the black roof.
The Obama Administration is currently conducting a feasibility study to determine whether to cover all roadways and parking lots with a white wearing surface. To avoid reflecting heat back into the atmosphere, the lane markings and other graphics painted on the existing asphalt surfaces will be made of a very “light absorbant” black paint. The FAA is participating in this investigation as well for usage on runways.
Does the FJ Cruiser use little fuel?
The 4.0L DOHC V6 engine that powers the 2018 Toyota FJ Cruiser vehicle can produce up to 268 PS and 366 Nm of maximum torque. A five-speed automatic transmission delivers power to the rear wheels. The automatic mode lets you restrict the top gear to any one of the five speeds despite the lack of an overdrive button. Additionally, the transfer case is controlled by a second gear shifter, making it simple to change to 4H and 4L.
The Toyota FJ Cruiser naturally has a big and boat-like feel to it when it comes to ride and handling because it was specifically created for the US market. When you launch the SUV from a stop, turn, or halt, everything is fantastic, even the squats, rolls, and dips. The trip is generally pretty comfortable, but we’re not sure if you’re going fast. Even with a more off-road geared TRD set, it’s still extremely gentle and stable. This comfortable ride is also useful when traveling off-road because it will silence most of the rough roads.
Yes, the Toyota FJ Cruiser’s main feature and the reason for its reputation is off-roading. Challenging rocks or ruts are simple to navigate with steep approach angles and adequate ground clearance. As was already indicated, the powerful V6 delivers such power that regulating once in 4H and 4L is also a piece of cake. More than that, while operating this cruiser, do not quake in fear of falling over.
When you learn that the FJ Cruiser makes it difficult to move around town, you might gape in surprise. Although the SUV is categorized as a compact SUV, it is surprisingly wide. When impediments are on the left side, window line and a high hood are the culprits that cause the driver to become confused. Additionally, a number of the views behind are obscured by massive pillars, creating some significant blind spots. Thank goodness Toyota recognized this and included a back-up camera in the SUV.
The FJ Cruiser achieves a fuel economy rating of 5.06.0 km/L in heavy traffic. Nevertheless, at an average speed of 100 km/h, it only consumes 10 km/L on highways.
FJ Cruiser is it 4×4?
The FJ is a part-time 4×4, which means that it is rear-wheel-drive under typical driving circumstances. However, you can switch to 4×4 high range or even 4×4 low range if there are significant impediments.
FJ Cruiser runs on gas or diesel.
The FJ Cruiser from Toyota stands out thanks to its classic appearance, which will appeal to buyers seeking uniqueness and significant off-road prowess.
However, that unique design entails several trade-offs, particularly in terms of access and room in the back seats and its rather high fuel consumption.
Over the course of its five years on the Australian market, the FJ Cruiser only had one version. There is no diesel or manual option available for this five-door wagon with a 4.0-liter V6 petrol engine, five-speed automated transmission, and heavy-duty dual-range 4WD. More standard equipment, CRAWL Control, a bigger fuel tank, and minor cosmetic modifications were included during upgrades in March and October of 2013.
The FJ Cruiser, a capable, totally modern vehicle, captures the nostalgic spirit of the classic FJ40 LandCruisers of the 1960s and 1970s. Old and new elements are combined in styling. Water-resistant seat trim and rubber floor mats are useful for a variety of lifestyle activities, while plastic trim inserts and the dash fascia offer an appearance of vintage painted metal.
It has five doors, however only the front doors can be opened before using the small, reverse-opening back doors. The hefty body produces blind spots, and the rear side windows don’t open, so you’ll need to judge rear access and room for yourself. Owners’ remarks have ranged from “a touch snug but OK” to “awkward and almost claustrophobic.”