In a recent article, I discussed how American drivers are returning to SUVs (crossovers) and trucks. The improving economic outlook is defiantly helping the trend. However, it must be noted that the smaller and midsize crossovers and trucks are significantly more fuel efficient than past offerings.
What if potential crossover and truck buyers want a vehicle that is more rugged in appearance, able to go off road, at home on urban streets and offers many features? What vehicle might fit the bill? It could be the 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser SUV/crossover.
So, what does the mid-size five-passenger rear-wheel drive 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser have to offer?
This Toyota is available in two-wheel as well as four-wheel drive.
The FJ Cruiser is built on a truck-like full ladder frame. Additionally, it is equipped with skid plates protecting the engine, fuel tank and transfer case (4x4 models only). The wheelbase measures 105.9 inches. The vehicle’s curb weight is 4,079 lbs and its ground clearance is 8.7 inches. Last, but not least, FJ Cruiser’s towing capacity is up to 5,000 lbs.
The engine is a 4-liter V6 providing 260 hp and 271 ft. lb. of torque. The transmission is a five-speed automatic with a limited slip differential. The FJ Cruiser’s 0-60 mph time is in 10 seconds.
On the exterior the FJ Cruiser’s windshield is quite upright. The grille is rather small and flanked by two round headlights. Two large amber turn signals extend from the outer edge of the headlights into the front fenders. Furthermore, this SUV has a solid looking bumper that includes two large rubber bumper protectors.
From the side the FJ Cruiser has large side mirrors that are attached to the doors. The front and rear fenders are squared off adding to the vehicles off road capable look. The roof is flat from front to back and it includes a large luggage rack.
At the back this Toyota has taillights that are set mostly in the rear fenders. The large spare tire is mounted on swing out hatch. The tire cuts into the rear window, however, glass at the top of the rear fenders helps outward visibility.
The interior of this SUV is well laid-out and functional. The gauge cluster includes a large central speedometer, a smaller tachometer to the left and three smaller gauges (fuel, temperature, voltage) to the right. The dash is very flat and solid (truck like) looking. The seats are wide and comfortable with adjustments at the side. The FJ Cruiser offers 27.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seat up and 67 cubic feet of space with the rear seat folded down.
The brakes are vented discs at each corner measuring 12.6 inches at the front and 12.3 inches at the rear. The FJ Cruiser’s 60-0 mph stopping distance is in 128 feet. The tires measure 265 70 17 inch. A full size spare tire is mounted on the swing out rear hatch.
The suspension contains of double wishbones up front combined with gas shock absorbers and a stabilizer bar (it provides 7.87 inches of travel). The setup at the rear includes a solid live axel combined with four-link coil springs, a lateral rod, gas shock absorbers and a stabilizer bar.
Standard features on the FJ Cruiser include air conditioning, ABS brakes, speed sensitive power steering, windows and locks, tilt adjustable steering wheel, front console with storage, 12 volt front power outlet, audio controls on the steering wheel, interior air filter, cargo light, front reading lights, rear window defroster, compass, AM/FM in dash single CD player with MP3 playback stereo and six speakers, Sirius XM radio, auxiliary audio input and iPod integration, USB connection, pre-wired for phone, Bluethooth wireless data link for hands-free phone and more.
Safety features on the FJ Cruiser include ABS brakes, driver and front side mounted air bags, front and rear head air bags, passenger air bag occupant sensing deactivation, child seat anchors, emergency brake assist, engine immobilizer, auto delay off headlights, .stability and traction control, electronic brake force distribution, tire pressure monitoring system and more
On the road the Toyota FJ Cruiser has a slight rear weight bias that contributes to its outstanding handling. It responds quickly to the driver’s input and the rack and pinion steering provides good feedback. The FJ Cruiser is well suited to handing twisty back roads, however, it is an easy SUV to live with for day-in and day-out use (running errands, etc.). The suspension provides a buttoned down drive combined with reasonable ride quality.
The fuel rating for the FJ Cruiser is 17 city and 20 mpg highway.
The prices of the 2012 Toyota FJ Cruisers starts at $25,990.
The FJ Cruiser’s warranty is 3 year 36,000 mile bumper-to-bumper, as well as 5 year 60,000 mile powertrain (engine and transmission). Two year 25,000 miles roadside assistance is included.
The original Toyota Fj40 was sold in the United States from 1960-1983. It was the go anywhere safari vehicle that is now a collectable. Will the current FJ Cruiser have the same potential? It might well have a shot at it!
The 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser is highly interesting to look at and fun to drive. It will handle urban or highway driving. Additionally, it will go off road with little trouble. It is a refined yet rugged SUV that handles better than most of its other mid-size competitors. Is it worth your test drive? They do not call it ‘Cruiser’ for nothing!
View the slideshow to see the 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser inside and out!
Kyle Busch s the author of “Drive the Best for the Price: How to Buy a Used Automobile, Sport-Utility Vehicle, or Minivan and Save Money.” He welcomes your comments or car questions at his auto web site: www.drivethebestbook.com or www.cartown1.com. Follow Kyle on Facebook and Twitter.
Comments