Capable versatility: 2014 Toyota FJ Cruiser SUV
Toyota has advanced both the art and science of the off-road vehicle while recalling its own off-road heritage with the FJ Cruiser, a go anywhere, meet life head-on, fully-capable sport utility vehicle. Reintroduced to the American motoring public during the 2007 model year, the FJ Cruiser provides optimized off-road capabilities, value and styling cues reminiscent of the automaker’s famed FJ40 4x4 utility vehicle, sold in the United States from 1960 to 1983.
Available in two-or four-wheel drive configurations, the FJ Cruiser is powered by 4.0L V6 engine equipped with a dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) system (variable phasing for both the intake and exhaust cams) and roller rockers. Torque is communicated to the ground through a five-speed automatic transmission or six-speed manual gearbox.
The automatic transmission employs Toyota’s Flex Lock-Up Control, which is added to the basic locking torque converter, allowing the clutch to maintain a half-engaged position, enhancing fuel efficiency and increasing the lock-up clutch’s operational range.
Delivering true off-road ruggedness, the FJ Cruiser has a tough, wide stance. The frame is a boxed steel ladder-braced unit to which is mounted the FJ Cruiser’s welded steel body. The independent front suspension offers 7.87 inches of wheel travel consists of a double wishbone setup with adapted geometry for superior road feel and ride comfort. Tubular shock absorbers and an anti-sway bar are also employed. A solid rear axle using a four-link coil-spring suspension system with a lateral rod, tubular shock absorbers and an anti-sway bar is employed. This system provides 9.1 inches of wheel travel.
Inside the surprisingly airy cabin, the FJ Cruiser features a dashboard that is bordered by upper and lower tubular forms, which frame rectangular-shaped, flat panels. Control knobs are large enough to provide easy grip, even while wearing gloves, and switches for critical functions, including climate control, audio controls and the optional rear locking rear differential, are mounted in the center dash panel within easy reach of the driver.
The standard full gauge package, including speedometer, tachometer, amp meter, coolant temperature gauge and fuel gauge, uses round, black-on-white dials and gauges fro enhanced visibility.
Access in and out of the Toyota SUV is facilitated by hand grips in the ‘A” pillar and the use of dual mini side access doors. The design of the doors increases the loading and unloading of the FJ Cruiser, as well as gives it additional functionality for the motorist with an “active” lifestyle.
Dimensions & specifications
Wheelbase: 105.9; overall length: 183.9; width: 75.0; height: 71.3 (2WD), 72.0 (4WD)
All vehicle measurements are in inches.
Engine: 4.0L V6 - 260 hp at 5,600 rpm and 271 lbs-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm.
Transmission: six-speed manual, five-speed automatic
EPA Fuel Economy: 17 city/22 hwy. (2WD); 15 city/19 hwy (manual 4WD), 17 city/21 hwy (automatic 4WD).
Cargo capacity: 66.8 cubic feet
Payload capacity: 1,285 lbs.
Towing capacity: 4,700 lbs.
Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, traction control, vehicle stability control, locking rear differential (manual/ 4WD), automatic limited slip differential (automatic/2WD), Smart Stop Technology, side-impact door beams, tire pressure monitor system, full-size spare tire (back door mount), daytime running lights, rearview camera, engine immobilizer, and Bluetooth hands-free phone system.
Optional safety features include rear parking assist sonar, and remote keyless entry system.
Warranty
Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile Bumper-to-bumper
Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile
Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited
Roadside Assistance: 2-year/25,000 mile 24-hour
Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2014 Toyota FJ Cruiser SUV starts from $27,680 for 2WD and $28,860 for the 4WD model. Destination charges add $860.
