Car Review – 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser 4.0 Auto

Sep 2013

This weekend I got to take an FJ Cruiser out for a 3-day joy ride, here is my experience with this futuristic, fun SUV.

At first glace the FJ Cruiser will definitely attract plenty attention, its up to you to decide whether its for the right or wrong  reasons. The FJ looks like something from another planet, with its coupe looking configuration and its 2 round headlights, which give it a similar look to the Jeep Wrangler. All models come with black plastic front and rear bumpers and wheel arches, this prevents the vulnerable parts of the car from getting scratched when driving off-road, clever Toyota. The silver side  mirrors, grill and  the anthracite mag wheels look awesome and provide a great contrast to the curious onlooker.
When opening the doors of the FJ cruiser one gets an overwhelming feeling of space, the interior is humongous, from a  seated position I could not even reach the sun visor without moving forward out the seat. To the side is an additional visor for the side windows, which was great for keeping the sun out my eyes both in front and to the side on early morning/evening, drives. The interior of the FJ features many design elements focused on enhancing off road practicality. All interior surfaces are covered with washable rubber materials to aid in fast clean up after heavy outdoor use.
The FJ also incorporates oversized controls to aid drivers with gloved hands. The FJ comes standard with USB, aux input and steering wheel volume control, which is fantastic for the music enthusiast, the standard sound system is also great and provides adequate treble and bass.
Bluetooth phone and audio streaming with steering wheel controls also come standard with the FJ this translates to a safer driving environment. The seats are also fully adjustable and come with flexible armrests.
FJ Cruiser’s 4.0 naturally aspirated engine incorporates Toyota’s latest Dual VVT-i technology which adjusts timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts resulting in 260 hp (194 kW) at 5600 rpm, and 271 lb·ft (367 N·m).  The fuel consumption figure of 14.1 l / of body weight.
100 km is not great, but in all fairness not bad for a 4.0-litre petrol engine hauling two tons. Overall the FJ cruiser is a great off road machine, performs just as well on the road and definitely attracts attention with its unconventional styling. It comes standard with a 3-year/100-000km-factory warranty and a 5-year/90-000km-service plan and at R379 999 it’s a great all round buy.