2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser Review

Specifications

Toyota finally jumped on the retro bandwagon with the FJ Cruiser! Based on the original FJ40 that Toyota produced between 1960 until it was discontinued in 1983, the FJ Cruiser is a union if the old 4×4 with its cult following and new technology and for once, the amalgamation works in simple styling and high performance off-road capability.

Design points from the FJ40 are seen on the new rendition - the five inch round close-set headlights are reminiscent of the original grill design and the mildly flared fenders continue the look. Add the flat top front bumper, shaped hood and round taillights, the design and overall feel is distinct.

What is also distinct is the definitive Toyota technology and quality that has made the company grow from its humble beginnings to a leader in the automotive industry. The new FJ is far more powerful then the original with Toyota’s DOHC 4.0 liter 24-valve SFI VVT-i V6 engine with dual overhead camshafts that produces 230 hp and a commendable 278 lb-ft torque. This gives the 5567 lb vehicle some get up and go - 0 to 60mph in 8.5 seconds is admirable especially when considering the high tow capacity of 5000 lbs and payload of 1325 lbs.

Owners can choose from two-wheel drive model with a 5 speed automatic transmission or the 4WD model where there is a choice of the a manual 6 speed transmission as well as the automatic. The 2WD model gets 21 mpg on the highway and 17 mpg in the city while the 4WD models gets between 19 and 20 on the highway and 16 and 19 in the city. The five-speed automatic offers an adaptable shift pattern that varies depending on the vehicle speed, road conditions and adapts to driver’s input.

Where the FJ Cruiser really makes its mark is in off-road performance. The off-road cult icon of the ’60s does not disappoint in this new rendition with performance enhancing technologies like the standard rear Torsen limited slip differential and two-speed transfer case meaning it will take a lot to get you stuck in the mud.

For an off-road designed vehicle, the on-road ride is adequate. For people who have only ever driven a car, the clumsy handling at highway speeds may take a bit to get used to but in reality, any vehicle designed for off-road tends to be disconcerting at highway speeds. However, the Vehicle Stability Control with traction control, dual stage front airbags, side airbags with both first and second row curtain shield provide adequate protection in both accident avoidance and crash protection.

Toyota designed the overall finish of the FJ Cruiser to match its higher end SUVs. Both the interior and exterior belie the price point - it looks and feels like a much more expensive vehicle and blows similarly priced vehicles off the road in fit and finish. Designed for long drives with lot’s of loose equipment, the FJ Cruiser offers cubbies in doors, back of the seats, the cargo area and every other spot you may want to put down a book or drink. The rubber matting continues with the utilitarian look that is all but functional only. The rear side ’suicide’ doors offer ample access to the cockpit and rear seats while the side-opening back door offers adequate access to the rear cargo area. The 400-watt plug in the rear cargo area is excellent for fridges or any item requiring power.

The driver’s cockpit adjusts to a variety of body types and the 8 way manual adjust seat is comfortable. The fit and finish of the dash has, again, a retro feel to it with exterior toned interior finishings. The black on white dials are easy to read and attractive while the vents and center console controls are easy to read and access.

Overall, the 2009 FJ Cruiser is an incredible off road vehicle with features you would expect at either a higher price or a custom designed rig. As a highway vehicle, the FJ Cruiser falls down a ways in the ratings due to the sloppy ride of the off-road vehicle although it is still considerably better then the original FJ40! The one drawback is the huge blind spots, limiting visibility considerably, which is counterproductive in both an on road and off road vehicle. Otherwise, for someone who is going to enjoy the off-road capabilities of this functional SUV, it is an excellent choice that is not going to break the bank at the time of purchase or at the gas pump.