Toyota FJ Cruiser
(2011 - 2017)

  • Unique design and experience
  • Excellent off-road ability
  • Typical Toyota reliability
  • Holding value incredibly well
  • Very thirsty for fuel
  • Rear seat are difficult to access
  • Vertical windscreen prone to damage
  • Not as practical as some other SUVs
Watch our video review
Overview

With a design aesthetic paying tribute to the classic FJ40 LandCruiser of the 1960s, the FJ Cruiser offered a fun and unique take on the more conservatively designed SUV market.

Based on Toyota Prado underpinnings, the FJ Cruiser was as rugged and off-road capable as it was stylish and unique.

While not as practical or fuel efficient as some of the alternatives, the FJ Cruiser offers a somewhat retro and special experience similar to the Jeep Wrangler, Suzuki Jimny and Mercedes G-Wagen.

Should you buy one, read on to find out.

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What goes wrong
  • The 1GR-FE engine can have issues with blown head gaskets however, it is not a common problem. Fresh coolant when specified helps this
  • Cracks can form at the base of the B-pillar
  • Rear door hinges can sag
  • Check that factory recalls have been fixed
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Model range, pricing and features

FJ Cruiser

  • Price when new: $44,990 - $47,990
  • Price used: $35,000 - $58,000

The FJ Cruiser was offered in one 4×4 variant in Australia with a 4.0-litre petrol V6 and a five-speed automatic transmission.

Other markets received 4×2 and 4×4 versions with the option of a six-speed manual transmission for the 4×4 as well as various limited variants like the TRD and Trail Teams Special Editions.

Standard features:

  • 6 airbags
  • Anti-lock braking
  • Air conditioning
  • Adjustable steering wheel – Tilt only
  • 17-inch alloy wheels
  • Brake assist
  • Bottle holders – rear seats
  • Central locking remote control
  • Cloth trim
  • Door pockets – front and rear
  • Electronic brake force distribution
  • Electronic differential lock
  • Head airbags
  • Halogen headlights
  • Multi-function control screen
  • Multi-function steering wheel
  • MP3 compatible audio/CD Player
  • Mobile phone connectivity
  • Parking distance control rear
  • Radio CD with 8 speakers
  • Reversing camera
  • Rear view mirror auto dimming
  • Side airbags
  • Traction control cystem
  • Vehicle stability control
  • CRAWL off-road cruise control (From 2013)
  • Fuel sub-tank (From 2013)
Should you buy it?

Yes, if it genuinely suits your lifestyle.

Trust us when we say that the novelty and enjoyment of the unique experience will soon wear off if you’re conscious of fuel consumption or require easy access to the rear seats.

If these factors are not a concern to you, buy one and buy it soon.

Only time will tell if the cost of purchasing an FJ Cruiser will continue to increase, and surely there must be a ceiling on what money these trucks can pull, but we are now seeing great condition late-model FJ Cruisers with minimal kilometres on the clock fetching north of $55,000. Amazing when you consider the FJ Cruiser retailed for approx. $47,000 when new.

In our opinion, the FJ Cruiser offers the cool uniqueness and the same all terrain capability of the Suzuki Jimny, Land Rover Defender, Mercedes G Wagen and Jeep Wrangler only with more practicality than a Jimny, better livability than a Defender, less cost than a G Wagen and a better reputation for reliability than the Wrangler.

Warranty & servicing

Warranty:

3 years/unlimited kms

Servicing:

10,000kms or 6 months

Tech specs

Body style:

  • 5-door SUV

Engine & outputs:

  • 4.0L, 6-cyl petrol – 200kW / 380Nm

Drivelines:

  • 5-spd automatic, 4WD

Fuel use:

  • 11.4L/100km (combined)

Dimensions:

  • Height: 1830mm
  • Length: 4670mm
  • Width: 1905mm
  • Weight: 2000kg
  • Ground clearance: 224mm
Disclaimer

Information correct as of February 04, 2021.

The advice provided on this website is general advice only. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this advice, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.

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