2011 Toyota FJ Cruiser

Subwoofer Switch
A big, console-mounted subwoofer on/off button makes it easy to optimize the listening experience when switching from talk to rock, for instance.

A-TRAC
By automatically applying the brakes to a spinning wheel, Toyota's active traction control system forces torque to the opposing wheel and boosts the FJ Cruiser's off-road capability.

Equipped with water-resistant seat fabric, rubber flooring, removable rear-seat bottoms and big control knobs designed for easy operation when wearing gloves, the FJ Cruiser's interior is decidedly purpose-built. Still, it's a very comfortable cabin for front and rear passengers alike, even if entering or leaving the rear seat through the small rear-hinged doors is tough to do elegantly. The rear cargo area isn't huge, but convenient hooks and tie-downs add functionality. A color-keyed center cluster adds a touch of whimsy.

With two smallish round headlamps flanking a low-profile, rectangular grille, the FJ Cruiser's face provides the strongest link to its FJ40 ancestry. The contrasting white roof, wrap-around rear glass and available roof rack are also familiar. In total, though, the 2011 Toyota FJ Cruiser isn't as stylistically true to the original as the modern MINI or VW Beetle are to their ancestors. Exterior features worth noting are the FJ Cruiser's big 32-inch tires, three windshield wipers and available side mirror-mounted lamps. Toyota also offers plenty of add-ons geared toward off-road duty.

A sophisticated aluminum V6 anchors three powertrain combinations that include a five-speed automatic transmission coupled with either two-wheel-drive or a part-time four-wheel-drive system, or a six-speed manual transmission teamed with a full-time four-wheel-drive system. Four-wheel-drive models include a two-speed transfer case. Off-road capability is enhanced with locking differentials and electronic traction controls. Rock-crawling specs include approach and departure angles of 34 and 30 degrees, respectively (32 and 29 degrees for two-wheel-drive models). The FJ Cruiser has an independent front suspension and solid rear axle, and its maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds.

4.0-liter V6
260 horsepower @ 5600 rpm
271 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/22 (2WD, automatic), 15/19(4WD, manual) 17/21 (4WD, automatic)

The 2011 Toyota FJ Cruiser's Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starts around $26,000 for the two-wheel-drive model and jumps to just over $27,000 with four-wheel drive and a manual transmission. A fully-loaded FJ tops out around $35,000. The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price reflects real-world selling prices, so be sure to check it before you set out to shop. The FJ's competitors include the Nissan Xterra with prices ranging from $24,600 to about $35,000, the Jeep Wrangler which ranges from $23,000 to more than $35,000 and, to a lesser extent, the Nissan Pathfinder, which ranges from $28,600 to well beyond $47,000. In terms of resale value, we expect the 2011 FJ Cruiser to perform better than the Xterra and Pathfinder, and remain on par with the Wrangler.

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