2011 Toyota FJ Cruiser Review

About this Vehicle

Trim: 2011 Toyota FJ Cruiser Base

MSRP: $25,090 Engine: 4L V6 Transmission: Automatic, Manual

Drivetrain: 4X2, 4X4 Fuel Type: Gas Curb Weight: 4,050 lbs.

Review

The Toyota FJ Cruiser has been a popular choice for sport utility buyers over the last four years and Toyota has brought it back for 2011. Reasonably priced and with a unique build, the FJ Cruiser stands out in a marketplace full of midsize SUV options.

Notable Specifications

The 2011 FJ Cruiser will be a comfortable choice for those individuals who have grown accustomed to stable Toyota pricing. The MSRP will sit comfortably at $24,000 on the low end and just above $26,000 on the high end. Those who want enhanced features or a special edition FJ Cruiser can expect to pay a bit more. The 2011 engine is similar to what Toyota has offered in the past, and it makes this vehicle one of the most powerful in its class. Toyota will once again roll out its standard 4.0 liter V6, an engine capable of 259 horsepower. Though this vehicle has some real accelerating power, it truly shines with torque and towing ability. Most wouldn’t consider this to be a traditional tow-capable SUV, but it might be time to reevaluate that stance. The 270 ft/lbs of torque provide the 2011 FJ Cruiser with the ability to comfortably tow up to 5,000 pounds. This is elite performance when compared to the vast majority of in-class competitors.

Road Test

The 2011 FJ Cruiser has become known for its superior handling when compared to some of its in-class competitors. There is no debating that the FJ Cruiser is a high-end SUV when taken off the road. Its suspensions are specifically designed for rough terrain, and it provides owners with the ability to go where few other cars can go. But what does it do when it’s on the road? Toyota upgraded the Cruiser’s braking system for 2011, and this will have a positive impact on both safety and handling. The suspension system is designed to handle difficult conditions, and gives this vehicle a stable feel. With locking rear differential, Bilstein shocks, and Active Traction Control, it provides plenty for the wary driver.
The differences between favorable and unfavorable reviews of the FJ Cruiser are stark, and perhaps that illuminates the divide between the initial positive reaction and actual sales. Is the FJ Cruiser a great ride? Well, it depends on whom you ask. The one thing all agree on is that FJ Cruiser is in its element off the road, and it is here where it provides amazing, innovative ride quality. The differences lie in its performance on the pavement. Some say it is adequate for this type vehicle while others claim the lack of performance is a deal-breaker.

Safety Features

For safety measures, Toyota provides front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags with rollover detection, anti-lock disc brakes, stability control, and traction control, all standard. Last year’s model with similar equipment received 5-star ratings for head-on and side-impact collisions.

Interior Features

With competitors trying hard to upgrade their interiors, Toyota gave the 2011 Cruiser a bit more as well. A multi-information display comes standard on each of these vehicles. Likewise, there is plenty of room to stretch out for passengers. The retro design around the dash looks good, but Toyota hasn’t provided any of the high-end audio features that some competitors have. The cargo area is a bit cramped, as well, but that comes with the territory with a mid-size SUV.

Pros

• Unique
• Fun and affordable
• Style and substance

Cons

• City performance
• Cargo area and access
• Resale value

Comparables

• Ford Flex: The Flex is one of the few affordable midsize SUVs that provide as much personality as the FJ Cruiser does. It is definitely worth test-driving, and some will find that they prefer its performance on the pavement to the FJ Cruiser’s juice off-road.
• Nissan Xterra: The Xterra is one of the best off-road SUVs on the market. It’s a bit smaller than the FJ Cruiser is, but it’s worth test-driving if it’s the off-road qualities drawing you.
• Jeep Wrangler: If it’s the retro-style of the FJ Cruiser calling out to you, then you owe it to yourself to test-drive the Jeep Wrangler. It’s not the right vehicle for everyone, but it does retro in a way that other vehicles can’t.