2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 59 FJ-Cruiser reviews and test drives.
Toyota FJ Cruiser - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser ranks 10 out of 26 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 59 published reviews and test drives of the Toyota FJ Cruiser, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
In keeping with its 40 year-old namesake, the eye-catching FJ Cruiser delivers solid off-road performance and ranks near the middle of its class.
If you want to stand out from the crowd and can live with some interior nits, the new FJ is a solid choice. Upon its introduction, the Toyota FJ Cruiser quickly wowed critics with its out-of-this-world looks and impressive off-roading performance. In fact, it ranks highly when compared to other off-road SUVs. It also rates well in on-pavement driving. The Washington Post calls the FJ "a motorized conundrum, a marvelous bit of engineering at once simple and complicated, capable of conquering the most inhospitable terrain but actually designed to appeal to the outdoor fantasies of the urban elite." Still, the retroo-styled SUV's low points are a cramped rear seat, poor visibility and sub-standard interior materials.
The FJ Cruiser comes in one trim with a V6 engine and automatic transmission. It's available in either two- or four-wheel drive.
- "If you want an SUV that looks really cool, then the FJ tops the list, ahead even of the H3 Hummer. But once you get beyond the style, the FJ is a bit of a disappointment. It is crude on-road; it feels cheap inside; and rear-seat space and ingress lack utility." -- Car and Driver
- "...the FJ stands out among the wash of SUVs found on today's roads." -- AutoWeek
- "It's stylish, fun, practical and affordable. Buy one if you want to stand out on the street or trail." -- Forbes
- "What's more important, style or substance? The good news is that the FJ offers both." -- Motor Trend
FJ-Cruiser Performance - 7.7 (Good)
The FJ Cruiser does exactly what it's supposed to do: excel as a top-notch off-roading machine. But it's a decent enough performer on the pavement -- even though others in the class have smoother rides and quieter engines -- and its performance ranks in the top half of the class. "Both RWD and 4WD versions of the FJ Cruiser beat our expectations on the highway and two-lane roads, where they cruised effortlessly and quietly at speeds up to 80 miles per hour," says Forbes. Continue with our full Performance Review to learn about one of the FJ Cruiser's low points -- disappointing fuel economy. continue
FJ-Cruiser Exterior - 9.0 (Excellent)
The FJ's striking, retro design is among the best in its class. "Toyota's FJ Cruiser will make a lot of heads swivel with its conspicuous mashing of cute cosmetics and urban grit," says the Los Angeles Times. Continue with our full Exterior Review to learn about one of the FJ's controversial exterior elements -- the "suicide doors," or check out our FJ Cruiser Photo Gallery to see it for yourself. continue
FJ-Cruiser Interior - 7.1 (Good)
The five-seat FJ gets mixed reviews for interior comfort and style, leading to an interior ranking near the bottom of the class. Many find the back seat cramped and awkward to access. Others complain of cheap interior materials. "Like the exterior, the cabin exudes simplicity, echoing the feel of the earlier FJs with cloth seats, a body-colored radio surround and large, easy-to-operate controls," says Road and Track. Continue with our Interior Review to learn about conflicting opinions on seating comfort, or check out our FJ Cruiser interior photos. continue
FJ-Cruiser Safety - 9.0 (Excellent)
The 2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser receives high scores in both government and insurance industry crash tests. However, poor visibility is a major detriment to the SUV's safety. Continue with our full Safety Review to learn more and how to remedy the visibility issue. continue
FJ-Cruiser Reliability - 7.0 (Good)
The 2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Toyota offers a basic 36 months/36,000 miles basic warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review. continue
