Ask Men.com Top 10:FJ Cruiser Highlights
Dec 22, 2008 | 02:38 PM
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Ask Men.com Top 10:FJ Cruiser Highlights
Saw this posted on the FJ site I surf.
http://www.askmen.com/top_10/cars/to...ighlights.html
No.10 - Rugged good looks
It’s not that this is the most attractive vehicle on the lot, not by far. However, there’s something strangely appealing about the FJ Cruiser’s angular exterior. Available only in dual colors -- always with a white top -- makes the FJ unique among SUVs currently on the road today. To some, the FJ Cruiser seems to be trying too hard, and might come off as harsh and rather unnecessary. However, to most the FJ has taken the off-road look to a whole new level of style.
No.9 - Multi-informational display
As far as manly features go, gadgets and gizmos are definitely high on the list, and the FJ Cruiser has plenty of them. Sitting atop the center console is the multi-informational display with three equally sized gauges, an inclinometer, compass and general information gauge with temperature read-out. Now, these may not seem futuristic to you, but given the situations you’re likely to get into while behind the wheel of the FJ, you’ll appreciate their easy-to-read placement on the dash and the information they provide.
No.8 - Well-appointed interior
It might not be a Bentley, but this Cruiser has all the creature comforts you could hope for in an off-road vehicle. Spacious and comfortable, the FJ Cruiser is great for all your suburban treks into the wilderness, with plenty of room for all the kids, dogs and camping gear. With a great 60/40 split available in all models, along with water-resistant seats and rubber-type floor and deck mats, this SUV is rugged inside and out -- ready to take on any weekend activity you can throw its way.
No.7 - Maneuverability and green power
For a larger vehicle, the FJ Cruiser handles itself quite well in more urban, tight-fitting situations. We were surprised to see the ease with which it traversed busy city streets, no matter how crowded. With a turning radius of 41.8 feet, the FJ Cruiser is deceptively nimble, which is great when you think of what large 4WD vehicles usually connote on the road. Steering response was also surprising as the FJ Cruiser easily maneuvered through sticky situations without much trouble, responding well to sudden wheel movements and feeling much lighter on its 17-inch steel wheels.
Equipped with a 4-liter V6, VVT-i engine, the FJ Cruiser pumps out 239 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, and despite its large size and sizable gas tank, the FJ Cruiser is also considered a Low Emission Vehicle. And if nothing else kicks your testosterone into gear, then the sound emanating from beneath the hood once you turn that key in the ignition is sure to get you going.
No.6 - Off-road capabilities
Just because it looks fancy, it doesn’t mean it can’t off-road with the best of ‘em. Built on an exceedingly rigid, yet slightly modified, Land Cruiser Prado frame, the FJ Cruiser has its roots in the right place. With such a stiff and supporting frame at its core this vehicle has the ability to withstand the rigors of any off-road surface you might plunge your FJ into. Coupled with independent front suspension, and 4-link, coil-over rear suspension the FJ’s off-road ride can and will feel as smooth as any jaunt through the smooth city streets.
No.5 - Trio of windshield wipers
It might seem a bit strange at first, but don’t be alarmed. The reason the FJ Cruiser is outfitted with three windshield wipers is strictly for functional purposes. While it is a cool, unique addition to the design, it’s also highly practical for bad weather conditions. Making sure your vision is never impaired, no matter what the elements throw at your windscreen, the FJ’s trio of wipers is another one-of-a-kind element on this SUV that makes this vehicle stand out on the road today.
No.4 - Artificial Intelligence System transmission
We’re the first to admit that an automatic transmission is anything but fun to drive. With very little control over the vehicle’s engine and the annoying habit that automatics have of never being in the right gear, driving an automatic transmission often means a dull, boring and frustrating ride. However, such is not the case with the FJ Cruiser. While you may think that a manual gear box would be the best (and should be the only) option for off-road vehicles, you’d surely change your mind once you experienced Toyota’s Artificial Intelligence System automatic transmission. This intelligent system constantly monitors the FJ’s vehicle speed, engine speed, throttle input, and brake signal to maintain the correct gear to make sure you always have a decent amount of power and throttle response necessary to make it out of any given situation.
No.3 - Active Traction Control
Perhaps one of the most important aspects of off-roading, Active Traction Control allows you to drive a vehicle whose wheels can and do seemingly act independently of themselves. Toyota’s Active Traction Control means that even if one wheel is left hanging, spinning and unable to grip, your differentials aren’t going to lock and the power will be transferred to the remaining wheels to keep you out of trouble and on the move. While this may not be new technology, it’s extremely important on a vehicle like the FJ that’s branded as being an off-roader. Some might carry the badge, but few can follow through with the goods like the FJ.
No.2 - Utilitarian
Unfortunately, there are manufacturers out there who desperately try to pass off their urban SUVs as having off-road capabilities that could rival those of the African Sahara Rovers, but only in their wildest dreams. Such SUVs might be ideal for the soccer mom whose longest, toughest journey is from the suburbs to the school soccer field with a trunk full of soccer balls and sweaty kids. However, for those who really want to test the limits of their 4WD vehicle, they just don’t cut it. Well, Toyota has proven their marketing is true to the very last spec, and it could very well compete with the best of them on any terrain, in any weather -- we’re quite sure of that.
No.1 - Unique
Just looking at the FJ Cruiser, you can see it’s unlike anything on the road today. With a drive quality that’s not unlike the well-loved Jeep Wrangler and an interior that might seem a bit rough at first, but is actually quite upscale, user-friendly and comfortable. With a base MSRP of $23,045 Toyota has introduced a Rover rival for a quarter of the price, and with a hell of a lot more attitude in one of its rounded front lights than in the Rovers entire body.
http://www.askmen.com/top_10/cars/to...ighlights.html
No.10 - Rugged good looks
It’s not that this is the most attractive vehicle on the lot, not by far. However, there’s something strangely appealing about the FJ Cruiser’s angular exterior. Available only in dual colors -- always with a white top -- makes the FJ unique among SUVs currently on the road today. To some, the FJ Cruiser seems to be trying too hard, and might come off as harsh and rather unnecessary. However, to most the FJ has taken the off-road look to a whole new level of style.
No.9 - Multi-informational display
As far as manly features go, gadgets and gizmos are definitely high on the list, and the FJ Cruiser has plenty of them. Sitting atop the center console is the multi-informational display with three equally sized gauges, an inclinometer, compass and general information gauge with temperature read-out. Now, these may not seem futuristic to you, but given the situations you’re likely to get into while behind the wheel of the FJ, you’ll appreciate their easy-to-read placement on the dash and the information they provide.
No.8 - Well-appointed interior
It might not be a Bentley, but this Cruiser has all the creature comforts you could hope for in an off-road vehicle. Spacious and comfortable, the FJ Cruiser is great for all your suburban treks into the wilderness, with plenty of room for all the kids, dogs and camping gear. With a great 60/40 split available in all models, along with water-resistant seats and rubber-type floor and deck mats, this SUV is rugged inside and out -- ready to take on any weekend activity you can throw its way.
No.7 - Maneuverability and green power
For a larger vehicle, the FJ Cruiser handles itself quite well in more urban, tight-fitting situations. We were surprised to see the ease with which it traversed busy city streets, no matter how crowded. With a turning radius of 41.8 feet, the FJ Cruiser is deceptively nimble, which is great when you think of what large 4WD vehicles usually connote on the road. Steering response was also surprising as the FJ Cruiser easily maneuvered through sticky situations without much trouble, responding well to sudden wheel movements and feeling much lighter on its 17-inch steel wheels.
Equipped with a 4-liter V6, VVT-i engine, the FJ Cruiser pumps out 239 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, and despite its large size and sizable gas tank, the FJ Cruiser is also considered a Low Emission Vehicle. And if nothing else kicks your testosterone into gear, then the sound emanating from beneath the hood once you turn that key in the ignition is sure to get you going.
No.6 - Off-road capabilities
Just because it looks fancy, it doesn’t mean it can’t off-road with the best of ‘em. Built on an exceedingly rigid, yet slightly modified, Land Cruiser Prado frame, the FJ Cruiser has its roots in the right place. With such a stiff and supporting frame at its core this vehicle has the ability to withstand the rigors of any off-road surface you might plunge your FJ into. Coupled with independent front suspension, and 4-link, coil-over rear suspension the FJ’s off-road ride can and will feel as smooth as any jaunt through the smooth city streets.
No.5 - Trio of windshield wipers
It might seem a bit strange at first, but don’t be alarmed. The reason the FJ Cruiser is outfitted with three windshield wipers is strictly for functional purposes. While it is a cool, unique addition to the design, it’s also highly practical for bad weather conditions. Making sure your vision is never impaired, no matter what the elements throw at your windscreen, the FJ’s trio of wipers is another one-of-a-kind element on this SUV that makes this vehicle stand out on the road today.
No.4 - Artificial Intelligence System transmission
We’re the first to admit that an automatic transmission is anything but fun to drive. With very little control over the vehicle’s engine and the annoying habit that automatics have of never being in the right gear, driving an automatic transmission often means a dull, boring and frustrating ride. However, such is not the case with the FJ Cruiser. While you may think that a manual gear box would be the best (and should be the only) option for off-road vehicles, you’d surely change your mind once you experienced Toyota’s Artificial Intelligence System automatic transmission. This intelligent system constantly monitors the FJ’s vehicle speed, engine speed, throttle input, and brake signal to maintain the correct gear to make sure you always have a decent amount of power and throttle response necessary to make it out of any given situation.
No.3 - Active Traction Control
Perhaps one of the most important aspects of off-roading, Active Traction Control allows you to drive a vehicle whose wheels can and do seemingly act independently of themselves. Toyota’s Active Traction Control means that even if one wheel is left hanging, spinning and unable to grip, your differentials aren’t going to lock and the power will be transferred to the remaining wheels to keep you out of trouble and on the move. While this may not be new technology, it’s extremely important on a vehicle like the FJ that’s branded as being an off-roader. Some might carry the badge, but few can follow through with the goods like the FJ.
No.2 - Utilitarian
Unfortunately, there are manufacturers out there who desperately try to pass off their urban SUVs as having off-road capabilities that could rival those of the African Sahara Rovers, but only in their wildest dreams. Such SUVs might be ideal for the soccer mom whose longest, toughest journey is from the suburbs to the school soccer field with a trunk full of soccer balls and sweaty kids. However, for those who really want to test the limits of their 4WD vehicle, they just don’t cut it. Well, Toyota has proven their marketing is true to the very last spec, and it could very well compete with the best of them on any terrain, in any weather -- we’re quite sure of that.
No.1 - Unique
Just looking at the FJ Cruiser, you can see it’s unlike anything on the road today. With a drive quality that’s not unlike the well-loved Jeep Wrangler and an interior that might seem a bit rough at first, but is actually quite upscale, user-friendly and comfortable. With a base MSRP of $23,045 Toyota has introduced a Rover rival for a quarter of the price, and with a hell of a lot more attitude in one of its rounded front lights than in the Rovers entire body.
Dec 22, 2008 | 04:28 PM
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Yeah, it still tickles me when I flip on the wipers, it is strange after being use to two wipers all my life.
At work though in my work vehicles, I only have one wiper.
At work though in my work vehicles, I only have one wiper.
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Dec 22, 2008 | 06:25 PM
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You wanna see all of that stuff setup, here it is 
When I camp, I camp in luxury, and I often eat better outdoors than I do at home.
https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f100...ark-wa-151692/
When I camp, I camp in luxury, and I often eat better outdoors than I do at home.
https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f100...ark-wa-151692/
Dec 23, 2008 | 04:51 AM
#10
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From: Littleton,CO
So,what are the negatives of an FJ and I don't mean it's unique looks since that seems to be one of the first thing haters throw out.
I'm not so fond of the rock catcher windshield but other wise from a spectator's view it's a cool SUV.
I'm not so fond of the rock catcher windshield but other wise from a spectator's view it's a cool SUV.
Dec 23, 2008 | 05:23 AM
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Some are having issues with cracked/bulging inner fenders.
I am not, but there is a cure for it, Toyota has been installing new fender aprons for it.
It is well documented over here.
http://www.fjcruiserforums.com/index...=active_topics
It seems to effect stone stock rigs too, not just modified ones.
The overseas Prado has had this happen to it too.
Other than that issue, I have not heard of to many.
There is a TSB for noisy brakes, soft gears in the rear, that is about it.
I have only had my windshield replaced once, and that was a few years ago.
Yes, many haters of the body style, but many dig it too.
The interior is HUGE, and I like the fact there is zero carpet in it.
Much easier to clean out after camping or wheeling.
And no leather.
I hate leather seats, they have business IMO being in an off road vehicle.
They are prone to scratching, ripping/tearing, you need to baby them more.
Now if I had a luxury car, then I would not mind them.
The FJ seats are waterproof, water rolls right off of them.
And cleaning them is as easy as getting out the vacuum cleaner.
I have never had to use a cleaner on mine.
I have no complaints in the almost three years (July 09) I have had mine.
I am not, but there is a cure for it, Toyota has been installing new fender aprons for it.
It is well documented over here.
http://www.fjcruiserforums.com/index...=active_topics
It seems to effect stone stock rigs too, not just modified ones.
The overseas Prado has had this happen to it too.
Other than that issue, I have not heard of to many.
There is a TSB for noisy brakes, soft gears in the rear, that is about it.
I have only had my windshield replaced once, and that was a few years ago.
Yes, many haters of the body style, but many dig it too.
The interior is HUGE, and I like the fact there is zero carpet in it.
Much easier to clean out after camping or wheeling.
And no leather.
I hate leather seats, they have business IMO being in an off road vehicle.
They are prone to scratching, ripping/tearing, you need to baby them more.
Now if I had a luxury car, then I would not mind them.
The FJ seats are waterproof, water rolls right off of them.
And cleaning them is as easy as getting out the vacuum cleaner.
I have never had to use a cleaner on mine.
I have no complaints in the almost three years (July 09) I have had mine.
Dec 24, 2008 | 05:34 AM
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PS, found the HUGE thread for the rips.
http://www.fjcruiserforums.com/forum...body-rips.html
http://www.fjcruiserforums.com/forum...body-rips.html
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