Toyota's Land Cruiser FJ 4.0 V6 tested in the dunes of Southern Africa. This one was modified by LA Sport. If you enjoy Andrew's videos, CLICK HERE: / andrew_stpierre_white
LOL ,unlike me i was making jokes about this Washing Machine as we call it in Saudi Arabia , the plot is , i own own and i freaking love it . Sorry FJ for every word and curse i said about you😂
PuRiFiCaToR100 my brother and his wife both have rubicons. As far as creature comforts go, they’re not as comfortable as my FJ. More room in my FJ’s cabin and the seats have more cushion. Rubicons are not uncomfortable though.
PuRiFiCaToR100 No big difference there. I’ve done lots of off-roading in my FJ. No rock crawling because I don’t want to mess up my daily driver, but it has no problem on trails. A few years back when it was somewhat new (with street tires), I was hanging with a few heavily modded wranglers through Borrego Springs. I’ve also done an ok trail through Joshua Tree with my brother trailing behind in his brand new Rubicon. No real difference in performance from what I saw.
Just me and wife and two dogs. We own property in Florida and commute there from Iowa 2-3 times a year, usually late fall or late winter. We've been lucky so far, only encountered one snow and it was brief. Bought an FJ Cruiser two weeks ago and had to get around a fatality accident enroute to work after almost a foot of snow on unplowed, untraveled gravel roads. Everyone else sat in the traffic on the highway and that FJ just ate it up! So it's teriffic in snow also, probably the best and nicest 4x4 I've ever owned. No worries encountering anything short of a complete white out blizzard.
Bringing this back to life.... I have a 2010.... I love it. Just did a suspension lift/level.... went all Led except for the headlights- those will remain halogen and true to its form and heritage. I will keep it forever...
I bought a 2014 FJ cruiser, and I love it, one of the best off-roaders you can buy, thy aren't so many cool trucks out there, I'm really happy with my FJ, can't wait to modify it
Same this video is one of the reasons I went away from Land Rover. I was one of those hardcore Land Rover guys having owned 4. Now I Love my Fj Cruiser plan on keeping it indefinitely. Web result
watching Andrews review of this clinched the deal for us & we bought a 2013, knowing his honesty & respect for his opinion, the only regret we have is that we didnt get one years ago when we first started liking them....it is fantastic for us
This sort of vehicle, which is capable of going through thick mud, forestry roads, snow and with enough space to carry me, the dog, rifle case, deer box would be perfect for stalking use in the UK!
Great review! I just got one myself ... i was going for the Toyota 4runner or tacoma but the wife loves the looks of the FJ! And the 4runner doesn’t come manual transmission in the states and manual is a must for the wife! So far we love it! We are about to move to Nevada and cant wait to test it off road
Paul Formaioni they are hard to find here in the USA as well and not only that but they want soooo much money for them... i paid $17k for an 07 with 115k miles last year
Took my 2007 FJ in for an oil change last week. The aquisitions manager said he would put me in a Taco for the same monthly payment...I said no way...he then said he would cut me a check for $24,000 right on the spot for it. I still said no. He said he had a waiting list...and if I ever wanted to get something else..no matter what....bring it to him and he would cut the check. I bought it used a few years back for $19,000. They are going anywhere from $36,000 to $42,000 in Alberta at Toyota dealerships...and they can't keep up.
Same here. The dealership keep trying to buy my car. They sent me a notice in the mail with list of cars I could have and what my payments would be. Yeah right Im going to go from a fj to a carolla. And my car is a 2013. They expensive but no way I'm trading my in.
Just recently bought a 2008 FJ Cruiser with 250,000 miles and manual transmission in black. Picked up and drove it across the US to my home, drove like a dream. It is nice in today's throw away society to have a vehicle I would actually spend the money on if the engine went out or other big ticket items.
Searched for two ears on the used market for a white one with reasonable mileage and price. Found one in Los Angeles advertised on craigslist it had just. Even traded in so I drove down the next day and after close inspection and researching the two previous owners found that it had never been off road -what a shame for them - drove it home put new bf all terrains and I am pleasantly content and happy and off road it is unbeatable after having owned cj 7 the iconic 1995 Cherokee, then the grand Cherokee V8 and I'm sorry but my stock fj with the all terrain tires is the most comfortable reliable non rattling fully capable vehicle over the others.
A modern day Classic! Dealerships scramble for them. In February of 2016 I saw two 2013 FJ's used ...on a Toyota lot for $37,000 and $38,000 I looked up these two with the options they had new in 2013..and they were around $34,000...What vehicle has done this in recent history? When I bought my 07 the week they announced they no longer selling the FJ in North America, my wife had put a $500 hold deposit good for 24 hours because I was at work. We went to test drive it the next morning and there were 6 couples waiting to test drive it! We decided to buy it and they told the people waiting we were buying it. About a half hour later the salesman noticed that three couples had not left. He said to them again that we were buying it and they said they were waiting to see if the deal went through. So glad I got mine when I did.
The stealerships are trying to market them as a classic, end of production run vehicles (like the Defender 90 in its day) and hiking up the prices to ridiculous levels. Honestly they are not worth the money they are asking. A better choice would be the Xterra P4X, also end of production, but are a dime a dozen so fantastic value, which will definitely rise in value.
+Anders Normansson good points..but what the market will bear is always the rule of thumb. And people WANT the FJ right now....I know people getting letters from stealerships to buy them back.....I get people stopping me and talking all the time. An X Pro 4 is a very capable vehicle...and they are a dime a dozen...which makes them a great sleeper for someone looking for a vehicle that won't break the bank. But I imagine that won't last long...and people will start scrambling for those too. It may take longer gor thus to happen because I think Nissan pretty much crapped the bed on Xterras and never fully committed to gettin them out there in the target community as they should have been. Probably because they did the same to the Frontier; they never learn. With the exception of the Pathfinder ..they never really pushed that adventerous side of their nature. Which is weird because they spent an undisclosed amount of money..just to get the Xterra name. Xterra along with the FJ has and/or will go the way of the dinosaur...both have fans that follow them like religion. The fact is...manufacturers are building vehicles to what people want...and right now..they want latte holders..dvd players...fart swallowing air conditioned seats...and lots of cushion for the every widening north american ass. The only manufacturer that is at least trying to hold on to a legacy..is Jeep..with their Wrangler. Even the Cherokee embarassingly is a mall crawler now. Maybe the Comanchee they have been tossin around as eye candy for off roaders may fit the bill. Either way...the FJ..The Xterra ...are going to be harder to get a hold of as each year passes so people shouldnpick one and go for it.
Good review I have a 07 fj and I absolutely love it the engine will blow away just about any stock v6 and allot of v8's its also great for 4x4 I took mine through a creek with the water up to the top of the wheel Wells and it had no problem.
Have mine since 2007 6 speed manual 4x4 lifted its a beast and has never failed me , the only mechanical fix i have had in 13 years is the starter and clutch nothing else with 220k on the odometer,have driven it i. Deep tropical jungles ,high mountain tracks ,and semi desert roads.The most reliable vehicle i have ever had and most fun as well.
Got to love that review, I have a work ute and a little C2 run around so my FJ does nothing but 4X4ing and touring, the touring part does require a long range tank as towing makes the FJ a thirsty girl, I agree with that review in nearly every way. Well done.
I have a 2014 FJ and use it as a commuter vehicle in Northern Virginia commuting 40 miles round trip 4 times a week minimum averaging 65mph. It does well enough outside of sucking down gas at a pretty good clip. I take the same FJ surf fishing in Delaware driving out on incredibly soft sand with street tires aired down to 10 psi. It just chews it up. Conversely, I’ve seen plenty of Jeep Rubicons get stuck in the sand just crossing the first dune, and they have no where near the storage capacity of an FJ
I've had my FJ(2012 Trail Teams, mt) for two years and agree with everything that was stated in this video. The only real quirks about the vehicle are, as the Mr. St. Pierre stated, the rear row of seats which will leave passengers feeling really confined. Adding to this is Toyota's mysterious decision to leave out windows for the rear passenger doors(aka 'Suicide doors') that could be opened manually or electronically. There is an aftermarket product to solve this problem but it's expensive. Then again, my two dogs really like sticking their heads out the window while driving so I plan on shelling out the cash...Still, my FJ is the best vehicle I've owned. I can't state enough good things about it.
***** Thanks for the reply. I agree. I love the FJ, especially the fulltime 4x4D system which is outstanding. The best thing to do is buy a FJ bone stock and then mod it. Toyota does have a OEM set of roof lights but they're just ok. I'm also not sure if that kit includes an OEM roof light button. The better route is an aftermarket set of bumper and roof lights. As for lack of visibility, you can buy some convex mirrors with 3m tape to put on the mirrors but that's another mod. The rear passenger windows, well, you're just going to have to take the hit and buy a product called 'Freedom Windows" and then have the windows installed. The whole process isn't cheap but it is worth it. If you have dogs, this mod is a must get. Frankly, I'm kind of amazed Toyota didn't work that detail out to begin with. A sunroof option would have been good too. Of course, you can have an aftermarket sunroof installed, as a well as a second one towards the aft of the FJ for a 'Safari' look to it. Still, all of these aftermarket mods add up to make one really costly modded FJ.
It’s a once in a generation car. Iconic. Perhaps the 70 Series of this generation. If the bronco is reliable, then it will likely be a worthy challenger. I’m on my second FJ only because I made the mistake of selling my first. It’s got almost everything right. However, I would add that it’s not ideal for tall people for three reasons: 1. Low vis out the front and sides. (Fortunately rearward visibility has never been an issue for me with the backup camera. Aftermarket convex side mirrors also help a lot) 2. Poor lumbar support (needs better seats) 3. Short distance between the seat level and the floor (knees in the air and almost touching the front panel) Don’t get me wrong, even with my height disadvantage (in this situation), It would take lot to get me to part with my FJ.
Thank you for your observations. This vehicle is something I was looking into buying used. For a few seconds there I was thinking you preferred the elephant over the FJ.
I love my roof racks. I have it set up so that I can pick up 10 pieces of 2x4x8 and bungee cord it to my roof rack. FJ's look great when they are working. When I hook up my trailer to my FJ it is awesome looking.
Probably wasnt done because, (unless youre towing something heavy) the 4.0V6 has the same power and uses the same amount of fuel as the 1VD , and its more fun, which is the point of the FJ
@@bkl8804 yes I speak in here in North America, I'm from Oman, but I live in Canada, last year in the 2014, and yes I know they still make FJ in the Middle East, mainly in the Gulf region, I know I know
Thanks for your video. I bought my yellow FJ Cruiser in 2007 and at that time I thought it was the new Land cruiser. I still had my 1991 FJ 80 Land Cruiser at the time. The salesman walked me over & showed me the 2007 Toyota Land Cruiser which looked about the same as my 1991 Land Cruiser. At least at that time the FJ Cruiser & Land Cruiser were different vehicles Here in America. I'm interested to know if at some point in time they started calling the FJ Cruiser the Land Cruiser & was it always marketed as such in South Africa? We're just now at 90K miles & have loved the FJ Cruiser every mile.
yup, this is the official police cruiser in saudi arabia. and the average college student vehicle. I'm quite surprised to see it also in Chicago and now in South africa. I tried it. and I love it.
I've tried to get a Patrol from Nissan SA, but they don't seem very interested. Because its not just a matter of taking one for the day. I need to rough it up a bit, in the bush, or it's just too difficult to do a proper test. A
I like the FJ, but after riding in the back of one for a weekend trip I knew it was not enough. The back seat is a big compromise to sit in for very long. So, I got a 4Runner trail.
If u want more inside space just bought a Prado or a 4runner. It got the same suspension and platform, just longer frame. And all the aftermarket parts fit all these trucks :)
thanks for the vedio.. am totally in love with my 08 fjammer.. I bought it new and never had any issues with it. the suspension is designed for serious offroading so not gonna be very comfortable for long distance driving obviously.. gas mileage is bad but who cares.. haha
One of the criticisms of the generation plastic four wheel drives are the airbags cant easily be disabled for off road. This becomes dangerous on surfaces such as corrugated surfaces leading to unintended destinations of the airbag whilst driving. Has Toyota learned or failed at this simple test ?
A love-hate relationship is where you love it AND hate it simultaneously. What you're describing is something that is polarizing; either you love it OR you hate it.
Kind of like a good wife... Sometime drives you nuts, but still madly in love with her! For what it's worth, the FJ is more than big enough for the wife and I to go on week-long adventures.
Yeah, it will most likely be gone after 2014. Its been on the market here for a long time. Americans are always looking for the new thing. So 7 years with not many changes doesn't help. I own one and love it! I got this over the Jeep JK because I wanted a reliable everyday car. Jeep is a little suspect on that, even if its a better offroad vehicle. You can't go wrong with this vehicle if your ok with everything that was said in the video.
very nice test!! Here in Italy FJ did not have much success only because of the engine.... 4.0 gasoline engine is not affordable here, but if Toyota will ever decide to put the 3.0 diesel of the Land Cruiser Prado I'm sure they will sell a lot and not just here in Italy but in the whole Europe
The only thing that really worries me is rear visibility. The rear window is small and blocked by the spare tire. The rear side windows are also small and have BIG blind spots.
In Australia the Toyota dealers cant keep up with the demand for them. Yes they are heavy on fuel, but the whole vehicle is Prado except for the body. In the USA they are not selling and are being with drawn. God knows what the yanks like
Unfortunately we don't have anywhere to REALLY use one of these. Most off-roading in the US is either heavy rock crawling or kidding. There isn't much in between. That's why Jeeps are a little more popular. Personally, I drive a 2004 Land Rover Disco 2. I would love an FJ, but they just can't be used to their full potential here as there are really not many dunes at all and you can't drive on many beaches.
Love mine here in the States. I’ve got an old 80 series and a FJ and the 2 vehicles are meant for different applications. I will say this. I drove my FJ to an off-road Park, completely stock other than BFG KM2’s, and made my way up the advanced trails meant for dirt bikers. Really surprised a lot of people that day and I came to respect it’s capability but learned to account for its limited range.
G'day Andrew...big fan of your work...just an amazing knowledge you have..just wondering why in your recent videos you say Fj with skinny tyres are brilliant and don't mess them up with wide tyres. Is that for the ability to cut through mud? And if you had an Fj what BFG,s would you put on them...thanks again for helping us mere mortals
Lol... Nice. yeah they're all great trucks really. I love REAL 40s though aye. We just finished my mates 72 FJ40, 400 small block bored .60 over, D60/14-bolt f/r lockers 39" tires... its a beast, it almost makes trails TOO easy, but its awesome to have for a recovery vehicle while we test my "smaller" trucks limits aye. Toyotas are so great, can't WAIT to finish my 1KZ swap into a 2nd gen 4runner (aka the last of the real Hiluxes in yhe US). 30MPG on 35s... OH BABY.
Yes another video, your channel is the ONLY channel of my subscribtions where I spesifically asked for Emails everytime you upload a video! I don't know if you take requests, but could you do a video of Patrol if you haven't? It seems like the perfect candidate for a new video, since it's a very capable offroad veichle. The Arabs LOVE it.
Just found out that Toyota will be discontinuing the FJ Cruiser after the 2014 model. Hopefully Toyota changes its decision & bring forth a new more retro redesign. If not I may have to get one by its final run.
the tire would be more suitable on the roof rack as the door is terribly heavy with issues with the hinges over time
11 лет назад
Hi, could you do a proper off-road test on a Nissan Terrano II 2.7 Turbo-diesel? It would be nice to see some good (past 2000) low price 4x4 (accessible for the main public) get tested. It's made with some parts of the Patrol. It is heavy used in the iberic peninsula because it's easily available in the second hand market, it's reliable and is really tough for it's construction. Beside that it only consumes 10l/100km. Wich gets you 700km (roughly) with one tank.
The 4runner to me is an excellent vehicle however it's basically the same shape and size of a Ford Explorer while the FJ stands out With its unique robust look deal with it 4runner fans FJ for the wind
awesome videos, I grew up with land cruisers in Venezuela, they call them "toyota machito" for their proven reliability. I was wondering what series land cruiser do you drive besides the latest edition of the fj70
Lol I showed my mom about the fj a year ago and she didn't like how it looked so i was like ok... then wen she asked a mechanic about what is a good manual car to buy the mechanic recommended the fj and she was then very interested in it. She also forgot about what she thought of it a year ago.
Oh man... I missed the "icon" part. Those things are SPENDY!!! What engine did he have them do??? I'd live to have a 43(my fav 40-ser) with a turbo'd 1HZ in it aye. Sounds like your dad has great taste though aye!!!
Toyota dose not make this car anymore here in Canada But i buying a used one to Overland around the USA & Canada I find a good one yes change out the rack for one that can hold a tent if i need some extra sleeping or gear storage but will be driving a Toyota FJCruiser Trail Team towing a Turtleback Expedition Trailer Its a USA Brand but its low cost smaller size will make it a good setup
is the gas mileage as bad as people say? Does it really ride smooth on paved roads? I heard it was a bit rough ride and noisy. Is is a comfortable car on long highway drives? Thanks you for the video. It was quite entertaining.
GlockNinja I have driven my 07 back and fourth from georiga to Arizona and I absolutely love it when I was stock and when I lifted it. it truly rides like a car smooth as glass
It's actually good with gas I get almost 500km in a full tank, and allot of my friend taste drive my FJ and the first thing they say, it's really smooth, it's a good car, 2014 is the last production, so is good investment
However, Toyota Australia spokesman Stephen Coughlan says the FJ will still be available in 2014, and that the company has no plans to discontinue it locally. “We have no plans to discontinue the FJ Cruiser here in Australia,” he says. Advertisement “We have no termination date for that model,” he says, stating that because it’s sourced from Japan, the decision to cancel the off-roader in the US - if that is indeed the case - has no effect on Australia retaining it as part of its lineup.
any idea my 2007 TOYOTA FJ CRUISER shudders at around 35-45mph? they say it's the Torque Convertor or transmission fluid... I just got it and hope to make some mods. Thanks
Last time I watched this video I was dreaming of getting one. Now that I have one. I believe it is because of Andrew's review.
Kiddomike me too i got one after watching this and now i'm back to the same video by randomly 😂
I watched this video .. I got a 2013 fj trail edition..
I watch AS-PW videos. Don't know if I saw this before I bought my 13 TTSE or not, but I love this review, and my new to me fj.
LOL ,unlike me i was making jokes about this Washing Machine as we call it in Saudi Arabia , the plot is , i own own and i freaking love it . Sorry FJ for every word and curse i said about you😂
Same here
FJ owner checking in. I've driven my FJ across the U.S. 4 times and it's be most comfortable ride I've ever had. Excellent for long expeditions.
Agree
PuRiFiCaToR100 my brother and his wife both have rubicons. As far as creature comforts go, they’re not as comfortable as my FJ. More room in my FJ’s cabin and the seats have more cushion. Rubicons are not uncomfortable though.
PuRiFiCaToR100 No big difference there. I’ve done lots of off-roading in my FJ. No rock crawling because I don’t want to mess up my daily driver, but it has no problem on trails. A few years back when it was somewhat new (with street tires), I was hanging with a few heavily modded wranglers through Borrego Springs.
I’ve also done an ok trail through Joshua Tree with my brother trailing behind in his brand new Rubicon. No real difference in performance from what I saw.
Just me and wife and two dogs. We own property in Florida and commute there from Iowa 2-3 times a year, usually late fall or late winter. We've been lucky so far, only encountered one snow and it was brief. Bought an FJ Cruiser two weeks ago and had to get around a fatality accident enroute to work after almost a foot of snow on unplowed, untraveled gravel roads. Everyone else sat in the traffic on the highway and that FJ just ate it up! So it's teriffic in snow also, probably the best and nicest 4x4 I've ever owned. No worries encountering anything short of a complete white out blizzard.
Bringing this back to life.... I have a 2010.... I love it. Just did a suspension lift/level.... went all Led except for the headlights- those will remain halogen and true to its form and heritage. I will keep it forever...
You are the David Attenborough of 4x4's
I've been called that before. I assume it's because of the hair?
@@4xoverland No, of voice and how you are telling everything
Well,I bought a 2014 Toyota fj cruiser and absolutely love mine, I love the way it drives, gas mileage is ok,you either love it or hate it.
I bought a 2014 FJ cruiser, and I love it, one of the best off-roaders you can buy, thy aren't so many cool trucks out there, I'm really happy with my FJ, can't wait to modify it
I bought one after your review and have never looked back. This is a super car and thank you for getting us out there.
Same this video is one of the reasons I went away from Land Rover. I was one of those hardcore Land Rover guys having owned 4. Now I Love my Fj Cruiser plan on keeping it indefinitely.
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watching Andrews review of this clinched the deal for us & we bought a 2013, knowing his honesty & respect for his opinion, the only regret we have is that we didnt get one years ago when we first started liking them....it is fantastic for us
This sort of vehicle, which is capable of going through thick mud, forestry roads, snow and with enough space to carry me, the dog, rifle case, deer box would be perfect for stalking use in the UK!
five year later this same FJ would resale for exactly what you paid for it new
I love mine I've had it since 07. It is one hell of rig it can take on pretty much everything.
Great review! I just got one myself ... i was going for the Toyota 4runner or tacoma but the wife loves the looks of the FJ! And the 4runner doesn’t come manual transmission in the states and manual is a must for the wife! So far we love it! We are about to move to Nevada and cant wait to test it off road
when i was looking at getting one in australia it didnt come in manual which put me off
Paul Formaioni they are hard to find here in the USA as well and not only that but they want soooo much money for them... i paid $17k for an 07 with 115k miles last year
Bought one after watching this vid best decision ever i love my fj
Took my 2007 FJ in for an oil change last week. The aquisitions manager said he would put me in a Taco for the same monthly payment...I said no way...he then said he would cut me a check for $24,000 right on the spot for it. I still said no. He said he had a waiting list...and if I ever wanted to get something else..no matter what....bring it to him and he would cut the check. I bought it used a few years back for $19,000. They are going anywhere from $36,000 to $42,000 in Alberta at Toyota dealerships...and they can't keep up.
Same here. The dealership keep trying to buy my car. They sent me a notice in the mail with list of cars I could have and what my payments would be. Yeah right Im going to go from a fj to a carolla. And my car is a 2013. They expensive but no way I'm trading my in.
i love mine, had it for 6 years now and cant imagine ever getting rid of it.
FJ Nation. Smooth ride, Off-Road fun, Dependability
Andrew is the best in 4x4 (6x6) Camping Car world.... Legend man
Just recently bought a 2008 FJ Cruiser with 250,000 miles and manual transmission in black.
Picked up and drove it across the US to my home, drove like a dream.
It is nice in today's throw away society to have a vehicle I would actually spend the money on if the engine went out or other big ticket items.
Searched for two ears on the used market for a white one with reasonable mileage and price. Found one in Los Angeles advertised on craigslist it had just. Even traded in so I drove down the next day and after close inspection and researching the two previous owners found that it had never been off road -what a shame for them - drove it home put new bf all terrains and I am pleasantly content and happy and off road it is unbeatable after having owned cj 7 the iconic 1995 Cherokee, then the grand Cherokee V8 and I'm sorry but my stock fj with the all terrain tires is the most comfortable reliable non rattling fully capable vehicle over the others.
A modern day Classic! Dealerships scramble for them. In February of 2016 I saw two 2013 FJ's used ...on a Toyota lot for $37,000 and $38,000 I looked up these two with the options they had new in 2013..and they were around $34,000...What vehicle has done this in recent history?
When I bought my 07 the week they announced they no longer selling the FJ in North America, my wife had put a $500 hold deposit good for 24 hours because I was at work. We went to test drive it the next morning and there were 6 couples waiting to test drive it! We decided to buy it and they told the people waiting we were buying it. About a half hour later the salesman noticed that three couples had not left. He said to them again that we were buying it and they said they were waiting to see if the deal went through. So glad I got mine when I did.
The stealerships are trying to market them as a classic, end of production run vehicles (like the Defender 90 in its day) and hiking up the prices to ridiculous levels. Honestly they are not worth the money they are asking. A better choice would be the Xterra P4X, also end of production, but are a dime a dozen so fantastic value, which will definitely rise in value.
+Anders Normansson good points..but what the market will bear is always the rule of thumb. And people WANT the FJ right now....I know people getting letters from stealerships to buy them back.....I get people stopping me and talking all the time.
An X Pro 4 is a very capable vehicle...and they are a dime a dozen...which makes them a great sleeper for someone looking for a vehicle that won't break the bank. But I imagine that won't last long...and people will start scrambling for those too. It may take longer gor thus to happen because I think Nissan pretty much crapped the bed on Xterras and never fully committed to gettin them out there in the target community as they should have been. Probably because they did the same to the Frontier; they never learn. With the exception of the Pathfinder ..they never really pushed that adventerous side of their nature. Which is weird because they spent an undisclosed amount of money..just to get the Xterra name.
Xterra along with the FJ has and/or will go the way of the dinosaur...both have fans that follow them like religion. The fact is...manufacturers are building vehicles to what people want...and right now..they want latte holders..dvd players...fart swallowing air conditioned seats...and lots of cushion for the every widening north american ass.
The only manufacturer that is at least trying to hold on to a legacy..is Jeep..with their Wrangler. Even the Cherokee embarassingly is a mall crawler now. Maybe the Comanchee they have been tossin around as eye candy for off roaders may fit the bill. Either way...the FJ..The Xterra ...are going to be harder to get a hold of as each year passes so people shouldnpick one and go for it.
prices where I am between xterra and fj I starting to equalize. I'm going FJ... Toyotas are bullet proof.
Yep, got one as well because of Andrew's reviews.
And sold it a year later. The vehicle was very capable offroad indeed but failed miserably at everything else.
Good review I have a 07 fj and I absolutely love it the engine will blow away just about any stock v6 and allot of v8's its also great for 4x4 I took mine through a creek with the water up to the top of the wheel Wells and it had no problem.
Have mine since 2007 6 speed manual 4x4 lifted its a beast and has never failed me , the only mechanical fix i have had in 13 years is the starter and clutch nothing else with 220k on the odometer,have driven it i. Deep tropical jungles ,high mountain tracks ,and semi desert roads.The most reliable vehicle i have ever had and most fun as well.
Got to love that review, I have a work ute and a little C2 run around so my FJ does nothing but 4X4ing and touring, the touring part does require a long range tank as towing makes the FJ a thirsty girl, I agree with that review in nearly every way. Well done.
This video was the inspiration to my purchase of my fj and also my build. Would love to show you the build one day ASPW
they have great heaters and very good in the snow.
I have a 2014 FJ and use it as a commuter vehicle in Northern Virginia commuting 40 miles round trip 4 times a week minimum averaging 65mph. It does well enough outside of sucking down gas at a pretty good clip.
I take the same FJ surf fishing in Delaware driving out on incredibly soft sand with street tires aired down to 10 psi. It just chews it up. Conversely, I’ve seen plenty of Jeep Rubicons get stuck in the sand just crossing the first dune, and they have no where near the storage capacity of an FJ
I love my 2010. The dealer keeps wanting me to trade. No Way.I do miss a pickup, but this is way too much fun to drive.
I love my 2008 FJ Cruiser. An amazing vehicle.
My kids love the back seats in my FJ Cruiser. All Three of them.
I love it..had mine 7 years..260k and not had one issue..off road in the uae desert every weekend in winter.
I've had my FJ(2012 Trail Teams, mt) for two years and agree with everything that was stated in this video. The only real quirks about the vehicle are, as the Mr. St. Pierre stated, the rear row of seats which will leave passengers feeling really confined. Adding to this is Toyota's mysterious decision to leave out windows for the rear passenger doors(aka 'Suicide doors') that could be opened manually or electronically. There is an aftermarket product to solve this problem but it's expensive. Then again, my two dogs really like sticking their heads out the window while driving so I plan on shelling out the cash...Still, my FJ is the best vehicle I've owned. I can't state enough good things about it.
***** Thanks for the reply. I agree. I love the FJ, especially the fulltime 4x4D system which is outstanding. The best thing to do is buy a FJ bone stock and then mod it. Toyota does have a OEM set of roof lights but they're just ok. I'm also not sure if that kit includes an OEM roof light button. The better route is an aftermarket set of bumper and roof lights. As for lack of visibility, you can buy some convex mirrors with 3m tape to put on the mirrors but that's another mod. The rear passenger windows, well, you're just going to have to take the hit and buy a product called 'Freedom Windows" and then have the windows installed. The whole process isn't cheap but it is worth it. If you have dogs, this mod is a must get. Frankly, I'm kind of amazed Toyota didn't work that detail out to begin with. A sunroof option would have been good too. Of course, you can have an aftermarket sunroof installed, as a well as a second one towards the aft of the FJ for a 'Safari' look to it. Still, all of these aftermarket mods add up to make one really costly modded FJ.
FJ Cruiser one of the best offroad cars have made
It’s a once in a generation car. Iconic. Perhaps the 70 Series of this generation. If the bronco is reliable, then it will likely be a worthy challenger.
I’m on my second FJ only because I made the mistake of selling my first. It’s got almost everything right. However, I would add that it’s not ideal for tall people for three reasons:
1. Low vis out the front and sides. (Fortunately rearward visibility has never been an issue for me with the backup camera. Aftermarket convex side mirrors also help a lot)
2. Poor lumbar support (needs better seats)
3. Short distance between the seat level and the floor (knees in the air and almost touching the front panel)
Don’t get me wrong, even with my height disadvantage (in this situation), It would take lot to get me to part with my FJ.
Thank you for your observations. This vehicle is something I was looking into buying used. For a few seconds there I was thinking you preferred the elephant over the FJ.
Good review, i have a lifted 2007 Fj and beat the crap out of it in the Oman deserts, still not broken!
I concur! A mate's got one and getting the kids out in a shopping mall has it's issues. However for a long weekend camping = bingo!
I love my roof racks. I have it set up so that I can pick up 10 pieces of 2x4x8 and bungee cord it to my roof rack. FJ's look great when they are working. When I hook up my trailer to my FJ it is awesome looking.
about to purchase a FJ... largely influenced by your experience. thanks andrew
i wish they would come out with a big turbo diesel version of the FJ
2014 is the last FJ cruiser production, but they coming out with diesel Tacoma in 2016.
@@pureauto454
You can buy and import a new 2019 models from the Middle East, they are still manufactured (but in small quantities) and desirable here
Probably wasnt done because, (unless youre towing something heavy) the 4.0V6 has the same power and uses the same amount of fuel as the 1VD , and its more fun, which is the point of the FJ
@@pureauto454 Negative sir. Last year of production for US. U can still buy new, current year FJs overseas!
@@bkl8804 yes I speak in here in North America, I'm from Oman, but I live in Canada, last year in the 2014, and yes I know they still make FJ in the Middle East, mainly in the Gulf region, I know I know
Thanks for your video. I bought my yellow FJ Cruiser in 2007 and at that time I thought it was the new Land cruiser. I still had my 1991 FJ 80 Land Cruiser at the time. The salesman walked me over & showed me the 2007 Toyota Land Cruiser which looked about the same as my 1991 Land Cruiser. At least at that time the FJ Cruiser & Land Cruiser were different vehicles Here in America. I'm interested to know if at some point in time they started calling the FJ Cruiser the Land Cruiser & was it always marketed as such in South Africa? We're just now at 90K miles & have loved the FJ Cruiser every mile.
FJ Cruiser was always marketed as a different platform inspired by FJ-40, different than other landcruisers like 100 series.
yup, this is the official police cruiser in saudi arabia. and the average college student vehicle. I'm quite surprised to see it also in Chicago and now in South africa. I tried it. and I love it.
Love the intro! It's completely accurate to how I think most of us would be with an elephant in the background.
....SQUIRREL!!!
I've tried to get a Patrol from Nissan SA, but they don't seem very interested. Because its not just a matter of taking one for the day. I need to rough it up a bit, in the bush, or it's just too difficult to do a proper test. A
That was great. You really captured the distracting obsession of viewing the big 5!
I have the icon coilovers and it rides amazing.
What's wrong with the FJ Cruiser? I think they're pretty cool
I like the FJ, but after riding in the back of one for a weekend trip I knew it was not enough. The back seat is a big compromise to sit in for very long. So, I got a 4Runner trail.
If u want more inside space just bought a Prado or a 4runner. It got the same suspension and platform, just longer frame. And all the aftermarket parts fit all these trucks :)
thanks for the vedio..
am totally in love with my 08 fjammer..
I bought it new and never had any issues with it. the suspension is designed for serious offroading so not gonna be very comfortable for long distance driving obviously..
gas mileage is bad but who cares.. haha
One of the criticisms of the generation plastic four wheel drives are the airbags cant easily be disabled for off road. This becomes dangerous on surfaces such as corrugated surfaces leading to unintended destinations of the airbag whilst driving. Has Toyota learned or failed at this simple test ?
Esta hermoso!!! I love my FJ!
A love-hate relationship is where you love it AND hate it simultaneously. What you're describing is something that is polarizing; either you love it OR you hate it.
Kind of like a good wife... Sometime drives you nuts, but still madly in love with her!
For what it's worth, the FJ is more than big enough for the wife and I to go on week-long adventures.
Yeah, it will most likely be gone after 2014. Its been on the market here for a long time. Americans are always looking for the new thing. So 7 years with not many changes doesn't help. I own one and love it! I got this over the Jeep JK because I wanted a reliable everyday car. Jeep is a little suspect on that, even if its a better offroad vehicle. You can't go wrong with this vehicle if your ok with everything that was said in the video.
very nice test!! Here in Italy FJ did not have much success only because of the engine.... 4.0 gasoline engine is not affordable here, but if Toyota will ever decide to put the 3.0 diesel of the Land Cruiser Prado I'm sure they will sell a lot and not just here in Italy but in the whole Europe
The hidden reference to the elephant, meaning the FJ is 'the elephant in the (desert) room' perhaps?
A fantastic honest review. Sums up my own thoughts.
The only thing that really worries me is rear visibility. The rear window is small and blocked by the spare tire. The rear side windows are also small and have BIG blind spots.
In Australia the Toyota dealers cant keep up with the demand for them. Yes they are heavy on fuel, but the whole vehicle is Prado except for the body. In the USA they are not selling and are being with drawn. God knows what the yanks like
Unfortunately we don't have anywhere to REALLY use one of these. Most off-roading in the US is either heavy rock crawling or kidding. There isn't much in between. That's why Jeeps are a little more popular. Personally, I drive a 2004 Land Rover Disco 2. I would love an FJ, but they just can't be used to their full potential here as there are really not many dunes at all and you can't drive on many beaches.
We like visibility and actual back seats. Fj cruiser makes little sense when you can opt for a 4Runner.
Love mine here in the States. I’ve got an old 80 series and a FJ and the 2 vehicles are meant for different applications. I will say this. I drove my FJ to an off-road Park, completely stock other than BFG KM2’s, and made my way up the advanced trails meant for dirt bikers. Really surprised a lot of people that day and I came to respect it’s capability but learned to account for its limited range.
fhhsvnggbh something might be wrong with mine 2007, All stock, 14L/100km in summer, 17L/100km in winter. Btw, I am from Canada
very nicely edited. you looked so excited to see an elephant :)
Honest gentleman. Superb review. Awesome!
Im starting to like this guys reviews.
G'day Andrew...big fan of your work...just an amazing knowledge you have..just wondering why in your recent videos you say Fj with skinny tyres are brilliant and don't mess them up with wide tyres. Is that for the ability to cut through mud? And if you had an Fj what BFG,s would you put on them...thanks again for helping us mere mortals
at 5:55 - 6:00 - that's exactly how i feel when i drive my FJ.
Thank you for an honest review.
Lol... Nice. yeah they're all great trucks really. I love REAL 40s though aye. We just finished my mates 72 FJ40, 400 small block bored .60 over, D60/14-bolt f/r lockers 39" tires... its a beast, it almost makes trails TOO easy, but its awesome to have for a recovery vehicle while we test my "smaller" trucks limits aye. Toyotas are so great, can't WAIT to finish my 1KZ swap into a 2nd gen 4runner (aka the last of the real Hiluxes in yhe US). 30MPG on 35s... OH BABY.
Yes another video, your channel is the ONLY channel of my subscribtions where I spesifically asked for Emails everytime you upload a video! I don't know if you take requests, but could you do a video of Patrol if you haven't? It seems like the perfect candidate for a new video, since it's a very capable offroad veichle. The Arabs LOVE it.
So , there you have it , buy an FJ get a free Elephant ;)
Wonder if they will ever make another BJ? The 3ltr 4cycl diesel from the Prado and Hilux would fit nicely.
Informative stuff. Love fj. Not seen many in kenya. Maybe now there is right hand drives from SA we'll see imports.
Just found out that Toyota will be discontinuing the FJ Cruiser after the 2014 model. Hopefully Toyota changes its decision & bring forth a new more retro redesign. If not I may have to get one by its final run.
I can’t decide weather I’d like it more with a Hilux engine or the likes or not.
just awesome directory and you =))
the FJ-C is a very capable vehicle stock and even better with a few mods. Rumor is that Toyota is killing production in 2014 at least in the US.
I had a fj cruiser and I loved it. I kick myself everyday for selling it. However, I am looking to get another one
the tire would be more suitable on the roof rack as the door is terribly heavy with issues with the hinges over time
Hi, could you do a proper off-road test on a Nissan Terrano II 2.7 Turbo-diesel? It would be nice to see some good (past 2000) low price 4x4 (accessible for the main public) get tested. It's made with some parts of the Patrol. It is heavy used in the iberic peninsula because it's easily available in the second hand market, it's reliable and is really tough for it's construction. Beside that it only consumes 10l/100km. Wich gets you 700km (roughly) with one tank.
Does that mean there will be more updated ones made in AUS if its canceled in the US?
The 4runner to me is an excellent vehicle however it's basically the same shape and size of a Ford Explorer while the FJ stands out With its unique robust look deal with it 4runner fans FJ for the wind
Based on the Prado? Me thinks some shop should swap out the petrol engine for the diesel.
I like it, I want it! Would I change it for 100? Not so simple.
Nice video. I have watched a few times. Thanks!
Buen video y muy buen vehículo. Felicitaciones
awesome videos, I grew up with land cruisers in Venezuela, they call them "toyota machito" for their proven reliability. I was wondering what series land cruiser do you drive besides the latest edition of the fj70
Another great video, thanks. I love that 4WD. I think that is not sold in Europe, is it?.
Lol I showed my mom about the fj a year ago and she didn't like how it looked so i was like ok... then wen she asked a mechanic about what is a good manual car to buy the mechanic recommended the fj and she was then very interested in it. She also forgot about what she thought of it a year ago.
Oh man... I missed the "icon" part. Those things are SPENDY!!! What engine did he have them do??? I'd live to have a 43(my fav 40-ser) with a turbo'd 1HZ in it aye. Sounds like your dad has great taste though aye!!!
I want it
what do u think of agressive mud tires in sand, or wich tyres are better for sand ?
I drive the v6 fortuner. I love it. I think ot is as capable off road. Was hurt by the comments 🤣
Toyota dose not make this car anymore here in Canada But i buying a used one to Overland around the USA & Canada I find a good one yes change out the rack for one that can hold a tent if i need some extra sleeping or gear storage but will be driving a Toyota FJCruiser Trail Team towing a Turtleback Expedition Trailer Its a USA Brand but its low cost smaller size will make it a good setup
is the gas mileage as bad as people say? Does it really ride smooth on paved roads? I heard it was a bit rough ride and noisy. Is is a comfortable car on long highway drives? Thanks you for the video. It was quite entertaining.
The ride is very good. Including the open road. It's based on the Prado, which makes is a very good cruising vehicle.
Thank you
GlockNinja I have driven my 07 back and fourth from georiga to Arizona and I absolutely love it when I was stock and when I lifted it. it truly rides like a car smooth as glass
It's actually good with gas I get almost 500km in a full tank, and allot of my friend taste drive my FJ and the first thing they say, it's really smooth, it's a good car, 2014 is the last production, so is good investment
Tallal Salim I get 600km on a full tank 87 octane.
Yeah I don't like how it looks, but I would choose it over a Jeep.
Because it's a Toyota
Nicely done Andrew. What brand of wheels are those?
wonderfull show. thanks.
However, Toyota Australia spokesman Stephen Coughlan says the FJ will still be available in 2014, and that the company has no plans to discontinue it locally.
“We have no plans to discontinue the FJ Cruiser here in Australia,” he says.
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“We have no termination date for that model,” he says, stating that because it’s sourced from Japan, the decision to cancel the off-roader in the US - if that is indeed the case - has no effect on Australia retaining it as part of its lineup.
💙my fj toyota ! 🇲🇽
any idea my 2007 TOYOTA FJ CRUISER shudders at around 35-45mph? they say it's the Torque Convertor or transmission fluid... I just got it and hope to make some mods. Thanks
qq80113444 Bent / out of balance tire wheel (?).
Use an additive meant for just that symptom.
Available on Amazon. Lubeguard instant shudder fix.
Heard of it on the Lexus GX forums.