I bought mine in August, 2006 in northern California; one of the first batch made, #34,686 to be exact. He just turned over 400,000 miles; original everything (except new cat' converters), almost no maintenance, runs like new! Best vehicle ever!
Did you ever change the transmission fluid? I have a 2012 with 85k. Still like new and no issues at all. Just not sure if I should change the fluid at some point.
@@earthling1984 Flushed it once at about 255K, then read that you should never flush. Big debate. Apparently there's debris in the fluid from the small clutches that is important to maintain. I hear drain and refill every 60K-100K from CarCareNut on RUclips. He's a Toyota mechanic from dealership to private shop. Good channel. So I've flushed/changed mine once. Might drain and refill someday. Never had a problem with any fluid-filled box on this FJ.
That 4.0L in that FJ Cruiser is the 1GR-FE V6. That engine is pretty much bulletproof. You do have to keep an eye on the coolant and oil but she will last you a long time. In the earlier versions of the engine 01 - 06 it had an oil leak at the front timing chain cover that occurred but other than that, amazing engine. Almost as good as the 2UZ-FE 4.7L V8 found in the Tundra's and Sequoia's. Great video, I would like to get my hand's on an FJ. If you want to see how to do a water pump on this FJ take a look at my channel, I show you how to do it, take care!
Have one, never left me stranded. Only that one time I high centered on a snowbank. Rock crawling where only jeeps are recommended, sand, snow, mud. Gives me the feeling that it can go anywhere without something breaking.
Seen a lot of these in Latin America and they're very eye-catching. Was shocked to hear they were discontinued in 2014 because they look as modern as anything else on the roads.
Back in the 1960’s there used to an advertisement displayed on the London Underground with the following inscription: “It was Christmas Day in the mess When the Colonel had rather a shock He heard to his sorry distress Someone rhyme Cockburns with rock At first he thought he would throttle The stripling who'd never been taught The naming of parts of a bottle Of Cockburns delectable port But the Colonel's a kindly old soldier And he'd known the lad's pa long ago. So he just said: 'Remember I told you 'One doesn't say Cock, one says Coe'.” Just thought you might like to know. 😁 P.S. TRUMP 2024 - ULTRA MAGA! FLY THAT FLAG HIGH 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸😁
@@orsoncart802 Joe will read anything they put on a teleprompter yet he has no right to disparage half the country like that.....imagine if Trump had said that, the Left would riot in the streets.
@@rightwinggo9694 Yes, I know. I’m watching the horror unfold. The malignant takeover that’s engulfing the US would have been unbelievable a few short years ago. But it’s the same here in England - and the rest of the West. At least you have the Bigly Dee Jay Tee & Ron DeS, and the 2nd; we have Jack Schitt. Ultimately it all hinges on you chaps. I have my fingers crossed for you to spearhead the reversal. Another 1776 moment? It certainly looks that way to me. Best of luck to you. And to us. By the way, I can see your reply here only by clicking on the notification I received. It’s not visible otherwise. I see the Wye Tea b0ttss are busy. Hence my cryptics above.
Haha I knew that told it to people an they laughed in my face. I was going to import one to Sweden from Germany. But ended up with rav 4 2019. Maybe its time know 😀 but I think the price is up now.
I bought a 2007 about ten years ago and we still use it daily. I liked it so much I bought a 2012 that I drive daily. The wife took the 2007 and I never get to drive it. 😊
I was looking to change my 4wd 7 years ago... took one of these for a drive just on a whim... the rest is history. Love it and can never see myself selling. If I did, I'd get almost the same as I paid. Has taken me to amazing places (some on my channel). And it's right hand drive 😉 👍
When you said for absolutely no reason, i have to say i can totally relate to it. Some things have no logical explanation. Thanks for validation, I’m not alone :)
definately. Good investment. Prices going up. Sadly no diesel models in Oz. Between 2011 and 2017, when Toyota officially discontinued the car locally, more than 12,000 FJ Cruisers were sold in Australia. about 220 thousand in USA
I had a 2013 Trail Teams edition with a 6MT and it was the best vehicle I've ever owned. totally indestructible and unstoppable off road with very little modification. I regret selling it every day.
Loved this video ! I first came across Barby's town car a few years ago when working for an off-road trails company. There were always 'proper' off-roaders such as Defenders, Discos and Landcruisers. But one week someone turned up in one of these eeeeek ! The owner got a fair bit of flack because of it's looks and the fact that it was still on road tyres. The more muddy it got the more there were admiring eyes from the lifted, mud tyred brigade until a long descent with 2 really muddy tight turns. We got stuck in a Disco, several land cruisers got stuck but the FJ just quietly and calmly drove through to the applause of all watchers. The FJ is the best mud crawler I've ever seen, bar none !
I have 14 summit white I freaking love it I will never sell it 50,000 miles on it it cost me a lot but that’s my bb I can’t stop looking at it and is so unique inside and out nothing on the st looks like it eye opener for sure have 33 tires on it stock suspension black wheels looks amazing just with that on
I’ve been watching your videos for a while now, and I’ve noticed your nearly 100% accurate with the way you describe cars, I’ve already bought a car based on one of your reviews and guess what? It turned out just as you described. Ps I previously owned an FJ in UAE and it’s exactly what you say it is. I totally love it.
Great review Matt, I have owned on in UK for 2 years. Not easy to get used to driving as the car is wide and has blind spots. The best thing about the car is it is not full of electronics and very reliable. I will not be selling anytime soon.
My 2008 FJ Cruiser has a 140L tank and I get around 900-1000kms which is phenomenal for a truck at 13.5L/100km. By the way fun fact, this FJ is not made by Toyota, it's built in Hino Plant in Japan
The new grenadier...lol. Billionaire that is building them - "Guys, vote Brexit and I'll defo build your retro jeep here in the UK" A minority of the population - sure, OK guvnor (doff caps/tug forelocks) Billionaire - 'France, want some jobs?, these island dwelling noobs just made it difficult and expensive to import/export anything, lol' France - oui, lol. Also billionaire - moves tax residence out of UK and into Monaco. Golden.
They were sold in Australia as right hand drive. I have a 2016 model. I have 169 litre fuel tank that comes standard. I love it ,they are becoming a collectors item.
Had mine 2 years and it's been great .....easy to service yourself and smooth power...that motor has roller rockers on hydraulic tappets with chain driven cams....one of the best motors in the world....just ask Lotus.
One of the coolest cars in my opinion. Remember seeing one in the metal when in the states and thinking it looked like nothing else. Love the sound of that 4 litre V6 too.
I've been saving my money for about 2 years and I'm ready to drop cash on one of these, thanks for the review. There's a bunch of available in Colorado. I found one with a manual transmission even!
I seriously considered one of these but brought a Range Rover sport which as I write is in the garage waiting for them to see why the park switch on the shifter won’t come off.
Had my FJ 10 years. It's 12 years old though, I bought it when it was 2 years old and had 17k miles. Not a single thing has gone wrong. Original battery lasted until it was 9 years old (during a cold winter around 20F I noticed it was starting a bit slower than it did the winter before. So I replaced it). I only have 85k miles on it. I did recently replace the spark plugs and brake rotors. They are rated for 100k, but I don't put a ton of miles on a year. Mechanic told me the original rotors still looked like almost new, I probably could have left them on another 85k. I will say, the gas mileage is not what you showed here (you showed 17/25). I get more 15 / 20 mpg.
Wow, what a motor. That would be a keeper if you can find one Matt. Cars like this are going to be history soon with the EV supposedly to take over. The direct opposite of blandness, love it !!
With the coming threat of electricity shortages, it may be the EV that becomes antisocial, and the 4 litre petrol SUV that becomes the new darling. That would be interesting.
You want one because its fun to drive and it looks way cool. Parked outside of a home that had a garage sale going asked what kind of vehicle it was? That is a Toyota was the remark in the form of a question? Putting gas at a station a guy walks up to me and asks me to show him my FJ. And so many times just driving on the road and I'll observe someone just locking eyes at my FJ as I pass them by. They weren't looking at me. And I get that till today 8 years after I bought my FJ Cruiser in 2014.
Great review. US dreamer here. Had a 1994 Tacoma 4x4 back in the day. Loved driving that on and off road. Hoping I can find myself a nice FJ for future adventures.
I bought mine exactly 9 years ago in el paso tx and still running has not let me down and have no plans of getting anything else yes with fuel its a problem but if you want something reliable this is the one
We still get them here in South Africa new and with the steering wheel also on the correct side. My old man has one. Bought it with 50 000km on the clock in 2013 and can now sell it for more than he paid with 180 000 on!
I’ve always loved the look of these, kind of a guilty pleasure like the Rover 75, very unique and different to the usual bland looking off-roader, and a nice alternative to the discovery or defender if you want something to stand out in.
I know I've commented on how high your production values are now Matt...but that's insane...had to rewind to check the Toyota FJ on the road🤯🤣.....very slick indeed sir. Brilliiant and another fascinating review. Cheers.
Great review and hit the nail on the head. I bought one of the last ones made in 2014 (trails edition one of 2500). I had been after one for a few years and pulled the trigger. I kept it for a year but traded it for a Toyota Tundra. Too many blind spots. If I had kept it, it would have been worth more now than when I bought it, prices have gone crazy.
Thanks Matt! I love these cars so much. With just a little bit of modification they can look so damn attractive and cool! Like a roof basket, chunky tyres and concave wheels. Perfect!
Same in NZ..I think in total in my home town Dunedin there is 1..If you want to go off road..Landcruiser/Hilux etc..These were just Toyotas attempt at a psuedo Hummer but without the size.
Th FJ Cruiser is actually manufactured in Japan in the factory that manufacturers Hino Lorries (Hino is Toyota Lorry division). The FJ Cruiser is still manufactured and is available brand new in the Philippines and Dubai and Saudi. Much cooler and more exclusive and a lot more reliable than those Land Rovers and Range Rovers that Matt loves so much.
I own an 07 FJ that is a 6-speed manual. Hands down, the best car I've ever owned. It hit 260k miles and passed its yearly state inspection with flying colors the same day. The price of gas unfortunately means that I do not drive it much
loved mine. they held their value incredibly well even before they stopped making them. Just make sure the timing chain has been done on schedule, it's an expensive maintenance issue due to the difficulty in getting to it on this vehicle.
Was looking forward to seeing this video after dropping my Volvo off with you. Great quality as always, and I see my old car is off with a new owner too!
Many thanks for the review Matt. I have been looking at these RHD for a while now as a replacement for my Disco 3. Ideally wanted a Land Cruiser, but way overpriced I feel. I am very tempted with the FJ, just need to talk myself into the fuel consumption 🤪
@@riboid I have a V8 discovery, fuel consumption is the same. They are very different vehicles. Comfort, cabin space, seating, ride, sound systems, turning circle,.... The list is long. Discovery is 10 times better in town as a family vehicle.
Yet 30% of all discos will need a engine replacement, but hey, if the bloke wants one, let him try it, only because you don't like it doesn't mean he won't, you also sound VERY biased to land rover, I have owned a disco and a 120 Prado, 120 Prado all day long, far better, didn't have to think when will it have an electronic fault and brake down
Friends of mine bought one that used to belong to one of the members of the Prodigy, it had all the goodies; exterior roll cage, winches front and rear, serious entertainment system, jacked up suspension, etc. It’s been a complete money pit! Engine, gearbox, axels, diffs, electrics. They have spent many tens of thousands! ☹️ Great videos, thanks.
in some markets the car has never been discontinued. where i live you can still get a 2022 model FJ from the dealer with zero mileage. but the car basically stopped receiving upgrades from 2015 onwards so whether or not you'd want to pay full price for outdated tech is a matter of choice. i opted for a relatively low mileage 2015 version for just over half MSRP. Love the car and always looking for ways to customize it and give it my personal touch.
I didn't like FJs when they came out... but over time it grew on me and about a year ago I fell in love with them and bought one. I absolutely love mine, but the rear visibility is tough to get used to. FJs were ahead of their time in aesthetic design and I think Toyota made a mistake not making them a bit more upscale and marketing them as such. When they came out I assumed they were an economy car meant to compete with the Honda Element and other bold-but-weird cars, Toyota really should've pushed how tough and fully 4x4 capable they are, I think they would've sold much better.
I have always loved these and am delighted that you have had the opportunity to review….. so cool! - I hope you find one for a decent price. Great review.😀
A work mate of mine back in the days used to travel from his home outside Aberdeen, down to Wallsend on Tyneside where the top sides were being constructed for the Mobil Beryl B oil platform and leaving around 5:30 am used to be on site at about 08:00 and he drove this cars big brother, a 7 seater converted to a camper-truck. Now-a-days with fuel/diesel at record pricing , he would have needed to spend around £150 as his had two fuel tanks, similar to a MOD Services Landrover.
I found myself in Toyota dealer in Algeria (long story) and there were queuing around the block to buy these (and other Toyotas to be fair). As there is almost nothing else to spend your money in Algeria (or was back then) everyone gravitates to buying a new car…
I like it a lot. Many years ago a cardealer nearby had one. I drove by his "shop". I stopped and jumped out of my car and investigated the FJ Cruiser. The cardealer was nearby and he came over and unlocked it. I crawled all over it. I was mesmerized. I didn't buy the FJ Cruiser, but I've bought a few (according to my wife to many) cars from this dealership. The dealer is a clever guy. Let the customers testdrive all the cars he wants. At two occasions he said "take it for the weekend" Let the customer drole/fall in love, and from time to time he'll dig into his pocket 😏
Thank you so much for doing the video, I have always liked them, like you I just like different, I find different more fun, when you going to do a Lada Niva, not the old one they are like hen's teeth to get, but you can get them new now, mine was the Cossack with alloys and bull-bars extra lights, sump-guard, roof-rails and the spare wheel on the back, was brilliant off road, was like a min Range Rover, with coils all around, even had a radio, what dissident luxury lol
A good honest review, of a truly great unpretentious do anything - go anywhere lifestyle vehicle. You only failed to mention they were all manufactured at the HINO truck factory in Japan, and as such they are truck tough and rarely even have a rattle or squeak (even after 400k km). I lucky to own a 1 owner 2011 Voodoo blue with only 60k km, sensible ARB enhancements, and it’s ultra reliable, comfortable and very fun to drive (especially off-road).
These were popular in Australia or the Antipodes as Matt calls it because of their toughness, off road ability and military styling. I have seen them advertised in dealers in good condition for around 52,000 bucks and yes Matty they're RHD.
Yeah they were sold new here in New Zealand and plenty more imported used from Japan. Current used prices start around NZ$23,000 (with 200,000kms) from a dealer which is about £12,000! Average price seems around NZ$30K/GP£16K. A quick search shows more than 50 for sale in a country of 5M people.
Great value in Japanese imports given their strict inspection scheme. Generally, many good cars to be found at good prices. I bought an Alphard and am amazed at the number on the road in the UK now. That, the Nissan Elgrand and Toyota Estima. Whole communities built around them. Would be great to see an Alphard review for those of us with toddlers in tow.
@@fraserb8147 they're great cars. I was contemplating swapping mine for a Vellfire but I think I'd regret it even though they're great cars. Convinced my mate to get an Elgrand instead of a Vito/Transporter and he loves it. The fuel bills though 🤣
@@chappy2121 Yeah, my Alphard loves high octane fuel 😬. Probably it’s only ( minor) downside. Even so, it’s still my daily car and perfect for school runs.
@@fraserb8147 my mates booked his Elgrand in for LPG conversion. I have to run my Crown on super due to it being a 1jz gte, I get about 21-22mpg but on a good run 35ish. Not bad considering it's only 4speed auto torque convertor and 3/400 bhp. Weekend car too so not too bad
I bought mine in August, 2006 in northern California; one of the first batch made, #34,686 to be exact. He just turned over 400,000 miles; original everything (except new cat' converters), almost no maintenance, runs like new! Best vehicle ever!
That’s impressive
That's Awesome!! Hopefully my FJ runs the same!!
Did you ever change the transmission fluid? I have a 2012 with 85k. Still like new and no issues at all. Just not sure if I should change the fluid at some point.
@@earthling1984 Flushed it once at about 255K, then read that you should never flush. Big debate. Apparently there's debris in the fluid from the small clutches that is important to maintain. I hear drain and refill every 60K-100K from CarCareNut on RUclips. He's a Toyota mechanic from dealership to private shop. Good channel. So I've flushed/changed mine once. Might drain and refill someday. Never had a problem with any fluid-filled box on this FJ.
I just love my FJ!! I drive a '13 Trail Teams 6 MT on lifted Kings and I can't imagine driving another truck.
That 4.0L in that FJ Cruiser is the 1GR-FE V6. That engine is pretty much bulletproof. You do have to keep an eye on the coolant and oil but she will last you a long time. In the earlier versions of the engine 01 - 06 it had an oil leak at the front timing chain cover that occurred but other than that, amazing engine. Almost as good as the 2UZ-FE 4.7L V8 found in the Tundra's and Sequoia's. Great video, I would like to get my hand's on an FJ. If you want to see how to do a water pump on this FJ take a look at my channel, I show you how to do it, take care!
Hello kindred spirit, I own an 07 FJ ,Manuel ,& an 09 Tundra with the 4.7 great reliable trucks.
We have a 2007 4X4 all original bought new 56k miles. We love it!
Have one, never left me stranded. Only that one time I high centered on a snowbank. Rock crawling where only jeeps are recommended, sand, snow, mud. Gives me the feeling that it can go anywhere without something breaking.
Seen a lot of these in Latin America and they're very eye-catching. Was shocked to hear they were discontinued in 2014 because they look as modern as anything else on the roads.
I just enjoy your no nonsense, honest and to the point presentations
It is a pleasure to watch your content
They have become a real classic. In the USA they are going up in price at a rapid rate of knots. Originally designed for American Bros.
Back in the 1960’s there used to an advertisement displayed on the London Underground with the following inscription:
“It was Christmas Day in the mess
When the Colonel had rather a shock
He heard to his sorry distress
Someone rhyme Cockburns with rock
At first he thought he would throttle
The stripling who'd never been taught
The naming of parts of a bottle
Of Cockburns delectable port
But the Colonel's a kindly old soldier
And he'd known the lad's pa long ago.
So he just said: 'Remember I told you
'One doesn't say Cock, one says Coe'.”
Just thought you might like to know. 😁
P.S.
TRUMP 2024 - ULTRA MAGA!
FLY THAT FLAG HIGH 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸😁
@@orsoncart802 Joe will read anything they put on a teleprompter yet he has no right to disparage half the country like that.....imagine if Trump had said that, the Left would riot in the streets.
@@rightwinggo9694 Yes, I know. I’m watching the horror unfold. The malignant takeover that’s engulfing the US would have been unbelievable a few short years ago. But it’s the same here in England - and the rest of the West. At least you have the Bigly Dee Jay Tee & Ron DeS, and the 2nd; we have Jack Schitt. Ultimately it all hinges on you chaps. I have my fingers crossed for you to spearhead the reversal. Another 1776 moment? It certainly looks that way to me. Best of luck to you. And to us.
By the way, I can see your reply here only by clicking on the notification I received. It’s not visible otherwise. I see the Wye Tea b0ttss are busy. Hence my cryptics above.
Haha I knew that told it to people an they laughed in my face. I was going to import one to Sweden from Germany. But ended up with rav 4 2019. Maybe its time know 😀 but I think the price is up now.
@@Domn879 people have stopped me to try and buy my fj, had a wrangler and an impreza and that never happened.
I bought a 2007 about ten years ago and we still use it daily. I liked it so much I bought a 2012 that I drive daily. The wife took the 2007 and I never get to drive it. 😊
I was looking to change my 4wd 7 years ago... took one of these for a drive just on a whim... the rest is history. Love it and can never see myself selling. If I did, I'd get almost the same as I paid. Has taken me to amazing places (some on my channel). And it's right hand drive 😉 👍
I wanted a truck but I decided to test drive one and after….. well I had to have it😂
When you said for absolutely no reason, i have to say i can totally relate to it. Some things have no logical explanation. Thanks for validation, I’m not alone :)
I have an FJ since 2007........best off road car on the market.
definately. Good investment. Prices going up. Sadly no diesel models in Oz. Between 2011 and 2017, when Toyota officially discontinued the car locally, more than 12,000 FJ Cruisers were sold in Australia. about 220 thousand in USA
I had a 2013 Trail Teams edition with a 6MT and it was the best vehicle I've ever owned. totally indestructible and unstoppable off road with very little modification. I regret selling it every day.
Loved this video ! I first came across Barby's town car a few years ago when working for an off-road trails company. There were always 'proper' off-roaders such as Defenders, Discos and Landcruisers. But one week someone turned up in one of these eeeeek !
The owner got a fair bit of flack because of it's looks and the fact that it was still on road tyres. The more muddy it got the more there were admiring eyes from the lifted, mud tyred brigade until a long descent with 2 really muddy tight turns. We got stuck in a Disco, several land cruisers got stuck but the FJ just quietly and calmly drove through to the applause of all watchers.
The FJ is the best mud crawler I've ever seen, bar none !
I think it looks really cool, it looks tough and ready to take on the atrocious roads of the UK. Really cool new editing Matt!
Agree, the roads are shocking.
I had one for a few years in the Middle East. Absolutely brilliant. Solid low maintenance and actually quite practical with kids, dog etc
i get asked about mine every where i go in it in the uk and with it been yellow it really stands out
These things are awesome to drive in the desert. The departure and approach angles are amazing. My all time favourite desert car!
It's a different car for those who don't want to follow the herd and get a Golf or Focus. I get why it's desirable, and I love this colour
I have 14 summit white I freaking love it I will never sell it 50,000 miles on it it cost me a lot but that’s my bb I can’t stop looking at it and is so unique inside and out nothing on the st looks like it eye opener for sure have 33 tires on it stock suspension black wheels looks amazing just with that on
Nice!
The FJ has one thing that other vehicles don't have ... 'personality' ... that and Toyota reliability ... it is simply unique👌
I’ve been watching your videos for a while now, and I’ve noticed your nearly 100% accurate with the way you describe cars, I’ve already bought a car based on one of your reviews and guess what? It turned out just as you described. Ps I previously owned an FJ in UAE and it’s exactly what you say it is. I totally love it.
Great review Matt, I have owned on in UK for 2 years. Not easy to get used to driving as the car is wide and has blind spots. The best thing about the car is it is not full of electronics and very reliable. I will not be selling anytime soon.
Had never heard of this car before, but I absolutely love the styling and everything about it. Would love to have one!
One of the only rare car dealers that I would love to buy a car from I'll contact you after next April when I remortgage my property cheers bud 👍
Who ever is the new camera operator/editor in this video, keep them. They did a great job 🙌
I actually like the look of this and not bad mpg considering it’s size and engine. Reminds of the new grenadier inside
My 2008 FJ Cruiser has a 140L tank and I get around 900-1000kms which is phenomenal for a truck at 13.5L/100km. By the way fun fact, this FJ is not made by Toyota, it's built in Hino Plant in Japan
The new grenadier...lol.
Billionaire that is building them - "Guys, vote Brexit and I'll defo build your retro jeep here in the UK"
A minority of the population - sure, OK guvnor (doff caps/tug forelocks)
Billionaire - 'France, want some jobs?, these island dwelling noobs just made it difficult and expensive to import/export anything, lol'
France - oui, lol.
Also billionaire - moves tax residence out of UK and into Monaco.
Golden.
They were sold in Australia as right hand drive. I have a 2016 model.
I have 169 litre fuel tank that comes standard. I love it ,they are becoming a collectors item.
The Legendary Toyota FJ Cruiser 👍🏻
Thumbs up for the amazing graphics on the road! Production quality is top tier.
Thanks!
Had mine 2 years and it's been great .....easy to service yourself and smooth power...that motor has roller rockers on hydraulic tappets with chain driven cams....one of the best motors in the world....just ask Lotus.
One of the coolest cars in my opinion. Remember seeing one in the metal when in the states and thinking it looked like nothing else. Love the sound of that 4 litre V6 too.
Me too
Awesome review. The FJ is such a great car!
Thanks. I loved it
I've been saving my money for about 2 years and I'm ready to drop cash on one of these, thanks for the review. There's a bunch of available in Colorado. I found one with a manual transmission even!
Oh wow. Very rare
I seriously considered one of these but brought a Range Rover sport which as I write is in the garage waiting for them to see why the park switch on the shifter won’t come off.
Mechanic: "'Cos it's a Range Rover. That'll be 200 quid please, unless you want us to fix it as as well?"
Had my FJ 10 years. It's 12 years old though, I bought it when it was 2 years old and had 17k miles. Not a single thing has gone wrong. Original battery lasted until it was 9 years old (during a cold winter around 20F I noticed it was starting a bit slower than it did the winter before. So I replaced it). I only have 85k miles on it. I did recently replace the spark plugs and brake rotors. They are rated for 100k, but I don't put a ton of miles on a year. Mechanic told me the original rotors still looked like almost new, I probably could have left them on another 85k. I will say, the gas mileage is not what you showed here (you showed 17/25). I get more 15 / 20 mpg.
That bit of writing on the road was a nice touch 👌
Another brilliant Toyota product from the best car company in the world. 👍
Toyota is a huge company, not the best producer nor the best cars. Some models really excel while many are flops. Just a bit like Ford.
@@eagleairborne7132 Toyota are nothing like Ford, Fords are absolute shite.
Wow, what a motor. That would be a keeper if you can find one Matt. Cars like this are going to be history soon with the EV supposedly to take over. The direct opposite of blandness, love it !!
With the coming threat of electricity shortages, it may be the EV that becomes antisocial, and the 4 litre petrol SUV that becomes the new darling. That would be interesting.
If it weren't for the huge blind spots, this would be my favorite Toyota product outside of an old Landcruiser
Blind spots are negligible. Mirrors are huge and very good.
@@Kana0211 Yeah with the giant mirrors the FJ's got, what blind spot?
Looks like Toyota's mashed together a hummer and a discovery. Looks pretty cool and weird, I like it.
You want one because its fun to drive and it looks way cool.
Parked outside of a home that had a garage sale going asked what kind of vehicle it was? That is a Toyota was the remark in the form of a question? Putting gas at a station a guy walks up to me and asks me to show him my FJ. And so many times just driving on the road and I'll observe someone just locking eyes at my FJ as I pass them by. They weren't looking at me. And I get that till today 8 years after I bought my FJ Cruiser in 2014.
Love that Matt....Anything that will have the Eco warriors running away in horror is good by me!
Looks a bit of a hoot to drive too!
Great review. US dreamer here. Had a 1994 Tacoma 4x4 back in the day. Loved driving that on and off road. Hoping I can find myself a nice FJ for future adventures.
I'm got my for sale 2012 108.000 miles
I bought mine exactly 9 years ago in el paso tx and still running has not let me down and have no plans of getting anything else yes with fuel its a problem but if you want something reliable this is the one
Your videos are great. Honest, real and not ‘paid for’ comment - well, the cars, that is.
We still get them here in South Africa new and with the steering wheel also on the correct side. My old man has one. Bought it with 50 000km on the clock in 2013 and can now sell it for more than he paid with 180 000 on!
I’ve always loved the look of these, kind of a guilty pleasure like the Rover 75, very unique and different to the usual bland looking off-roader, and a nice alternative to the discovery or defender if you want something to stand out in.
Great history lesson there Matt.Top work. Never ever seen these before. It reminds of Barbie Kens weekend camper! 🤓
😂 yes I can see what you mean
I know I've commented on how high your production values are now Matt...but that's insane...had to rewind to check the Toyota FJ on the road🤯🤣.....very slick indeed sir. Brilliiant and another fascinating review. Cheers.
Thanks!
Hi Matt, I owned one in Australia. Great car though quite claustrophobic in the back. Really good off road, out of the box too.
Great review and hit the nail on the head. I bought one of the last ones made in 2014 (trails edition one of 2500). I had been after one for a few years and pulled the trigger. I kept it for a year but traded it for a Toyota Tundra. Too many blind spots. If I had kept it, it would have been worth more now than when I bought it, prices have gone crazy.
They have restarted selling making these. You can actually pick up a 2022 car
In which country?
@@graemejones7049 UAE
What a beautiful future classic. Shame they didn't build a diesel. Great job Mat 👍👍
It can be converted to a diesel. Couple of videos on RUclips of converted ones.
Thanks Matt! I love these cars so much. With just a little bit of modification they can look so damn attractive and cool! Like a roof basket, chunky tyres and concave wheels. Perfect!
B u 😅🎉😅😮Y😅😅😊😊
I *LOVE* these things. They are bigger than I remember them, but living in Prague, I haven't seen one in years.
Great looking car, very envious of my son in Oz who owns one and absolutely loves it, great for camping with all the extras available.
Scotty Kilmer has just entered the chat 😁
rev up your engines!
See quite a few here in Australia. It was never as bigger seller as Toyota hoped it'd be because it launched right before the Financial Crisis.
Same in NZ..I think in total in my home town Dunedin there is 1..If you want to go off road..Landcruiser/Hilux etc..These were just Toyotas attempt at a psuedo Hummer but without the size.
Th FJ Cruiser is actually manufactured in Japan in the factory that manufacturers Hino Lorries (Hino is Toyota Lorry division).
The FJ Cruiser is still manufactured and is available brand new in the Philippines and Dubai and Saudi.
Much cooler and more exclusive and a lot more reliable than those Land Rovers and Range Rovers that Matt loves so much.
Thank you for listening to your followers and making this video 🙂
First saw one in Australia years ago and loved it instantly.
never seen one in this country, saw plenty on holiday in the US but today on a country lane in the middle of Wiltshire one came towards me!
I own an 07 FJ that is a 6-speed manual. Hands down, the best car I've ever owned. It hit 260k miles and passed its yearly state inspection with flying colors the same day. The price of gas unfortunately means that I do not drive it much
Ugh same and I love to drive it😩. Mines an automatic though but I LOVE the feel of it. Even stock you feel like king of the road in it😂
loved mine. they held their value incredibly well even before they stopped making them. Just make sure the timing chain has been done on schedule, it's an expensive maintenance issue due to the difficulty in getting to it on this vehicle.
They produced RHD in South Africa. Ones in Johannesburg generally are rust free. I can send you one when they pop up. Are very scarce.
Was looking forward to seeing this video after dropping my Volvo off with you. Great quality as always, and I see my old car is off with a new owner too!
Sold plenty of them in South Africa. Thus pretty easy to get RHD in the UK if you really want one.
Many thanks for the review Matt. I have been looking at these RHD for a while now as a replacement for my Disco 3. Ideally wanted a Land Cruiser, but way overpriced I feel. I am very tempted with the FJ, just need to talk myself into the fuel consumption 🤪
I think you have to forget about the high price because it won’t lose any value whereas most other cars will
It's not a discovery, not even close.
I own both and you'd be making a mistake if you are living in town.
@@mvubu6823 You mean don't touch the Toyota for the fuel consumption?
@@riboid I have a V8 discovery, fuel consumption is the same.
They are very different vehicles.
Comfort, cabin space, seating, ride, sound systems, turning circle,.... The list is long.
Discovery is 10 times better in town as a family vehicle.
Yet 30% of all discos will need a engine replacement, but hey, if the bloke wants one, let him try it, only because you don't like it doesn't mean he won't, you also sound VERY biased to land rover, I have owned a disco and a 120 Prado, 120 Prado all day long, far better, didn't have to think when will it have an electronic fault and brake down
I remember the first time I saw one of these years ago. It was one of those rare cars that I hadn't a clue what it was! Very cool looking thing.
Friends of mine bought one that used to belong to one of the members of the Prodigy, it had all the goodies; exterior roll cage, winches front and rear, serious entertainment system, jacked up suspension, etc. It’s been a complete money pit! Engine, gearbox, axels, diffs, electrics. They have spent many tens of thousands! ☹️ Great videos, thanks.
Wasn't Keith's was it?
in some markets the car has never been discontinued.
where i live you can still get a 2022 model FJ from the dealer with zero mileage.
but the car basically stopped receiving upgrades from 2015 onwards so whether or not you'd want to pay full price for outdated tech is a matter of choice.
i opted for a relatively low mileage 2015 version for just over half MSRP. Love the car and always looking for ways to customize it and give it my personal touch.
Content and editing levels now insanely high. Looking forward to congratulating you on reaching 1 million subs within 12 months! 🤞🤞
Thanks! Working on it
Thanks !
"Forbidden Fruit" 😉 hahaha.
There's nothing better is there ?
Love the looks and the Coop blue colour too !
It's a collection of complete oddness and I want one!
Great overview of the FJ Cruiser. I am still driving my 2008 FJ and expect the Japanese truck to keep motoring at least a few more years.
I didn't like FJs when they came out... but over time it grew on me and about a year ago I fell in love with them and bought one. I absolutely love mine, but the rear visibility is tough to get used to. FJs were ahead of their time in aesthetic design and I think Toyota made a mistake not making them a bit more upscale and marketing them as such. When they came out I assumed they were an economy car meant to compete with the Honda Element and other bold-but-weird cars, Toyota really should've pushed how tough and fully 4x4 capable they are, I think they would've sold much better.
Great review of a really strange but very desirable 4X4 that in all probability has the legendary Toyota reliability.
I LOVE how he explains and details everything!
Very very cool! Great review
Matt, excellent and accurate review. Extremely well done 👍 I had one of these in 2006. It was a 6speed. Cool; but, thirsty.
I have always loved these and am delighted that you have had the opportunity to review….. so cool! - I hope you find one for a decent price. Great review.😀
A work mate of mine back in the days used to travel from his home outside Aberdeen, down to Wallsend on Tyneside where the top sides were being constructed for the Mobil Beryl B oil platform and leaving around 5:30 am used to be on site at about 08:00 and he drove this cars big brother, a 7 seater converted to a camper-truck. Now-a-days with fuel/diesel at record pricing , he would have needed to spend around £150 as his had two fuel tanks, similar to a MOD Services Landrover.
Love these. Really been tempted over the last year or so.
Definitely, especially if you convert to LPG.
I found myself in Toyota dealer in Algeria (long story) and there were queuing around the block to buy these (and other Toyotas to be fair). As there is almost nothing else to spend your money in Algeria (or was back then) everyone gravitates to buying a new car…
You speak well. You're a good promoter
Yep love these. Video highly watchable as ever. Especially liked FJ digitally "painted " on the road at beginning of video. Lovely touch that.
Hated it when it first came out.....love it now and bought one 🤣
I like it a lot. Many years ago a cardealer nearby had one. I drove by his "shop". I stopped and jumped out of my car and investigated the FJ Cruiser. The cardealer was nearby and he came over and unlocked it. I crawled all over it. I was mesmerized. I didn't buy the FJ Cruiser, but I've bought a few (according to my wife to many) cars from this dealership. The dealer is a clever guy. Let the customers testdrive all the cars he wants. At two occasions he said "take it for the weekend" Let the customer drole/fall in love, and from time to time he'll dig into his pocket 😏
I could listen to u talk whole day n just laugh n enjoy d content
Thanks
Thank you so much for doing the video, I have always liked them, like you I just like different, I find different more fun, when you going to do a Lada Niva, not the old one they are like hen's teeth to get, but you can get them new now, mine was the Cossack with alloys and bull-bars extra lights, sump-guard, roof-rails and the spare wheel on the back, was brilliant off road, was like a min Range Rover, with coils all around, even had a radio, what dissident luxury lol
A good honest review, of a truly great unpretentious do anything - go anywhere lifestyle vehicle. You only failed to mention they were all manufactured at the HINO truck factory in Japan, and as such they are truck tough and rarely even have a rattle or squeak (even after 400k km). I lucky to own a 1 owner 2011 Voodoo blue with only 60k km, sensible ARB enhancements, and it’s ultra reliable, comfortable and very fun to drive (especially off-road).
I just love the looks of this strange 4x4, they are very rare.
These were popular in Australia or the Antipodes as Matt calls it because of their toughness, off road ability and military styling. I have seen them advertised in dealers in good condition for around 52,000 bucks and yes Matty they're RHD.
See these all the time in North Carolina... these are SPECIAL!!!!!
Yeah they were sold new here in New Zealand and plenty more imported used from Japan. Current used prices start around NZ$23,000 (with 200,000kms) from a dealer which is about £12,000! Average price seems around NZ$30K/GP£16K.
A quick search shows more than 50 for sale in a country of 5M people.
Great value in Japanese imports given their strict inspection scheme. Generally, many good cars to be found at good prices. I bought an Alphard and am amazed at the number on the road in the UK now. That, the Nissan Elgrand and Toyota Estima. Whole communities built around them. Would be great to see an Alphard review for those of us with toddlers in tow.
Couldn't agree more. I've got a Toyota Crown Athlete VX, it has been superb. Probably going to be my last car.
@@chappy2121 At the moment, in the current market, Japanese imports offer really excellent value. More than happy with my Alphard.
@@fraserb8147 they're great cars. I was contemplating swapping mine for a Vellfire but I think I'd regret it even though they're great cars. Convinced my mate to get an Elgrand instead of a Vito/Transporter and he loves it. The fuel bills though 🤣
@@chappy2121 Yeah, my Alphard loves high octane fuel 😬. Probably it’s only ( minor) downside. Even so, it’s still my daily car and perfect for school runs.
@@fraserb8147 my mates booked his Elgrand in for LPG conversion. I have to run my Crown on super due to it being a 1jz gte, I get about 21-22mpg but on a good run 35ish. Not bad considering it's only 4speed auto torque convertor and 3/400 bhp. Weekend car too so not too bad
Thank you for a real quality vehicle review instead of all the unreliable trash you like to review (land rovers,BMW,Audi,jaguaretc)
😱
Freddy... "I say, a bit brusque that there, old chap."
That thing is a beauty! Not so sure about the MPG? The yanks love the FJ Cruiser!