Toyota FJ Cruiser V6
Retro in looks and modern in offroad capabilities, the Toyota FJ Cruiser is an ideal SUV for anyone seeking a classic aesthetic with the power of a newer car.
Written by Joshua Levy
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
As far as mid-size SUVs go, the Toyota FJ Cruiser V6 is an iconic example from the mid-2000s. Originally debuted in 2006, the FJ Cruiser was meant to call back to the classic look of 1980s SUVs while incorporating new mechanical features that would optimize its offroad capabilities.
While there are plenty of great offroaders on the market, the FJ Cruiser is one of the most fun and recognizable. That said, the FJ Cruiser’s popularity quickly declined after its original release, and North American sales were officially discontinued in 2014. So the latest model you can get will likely be from 2014.
Want to learn more about the Toyota FJ Cruiser’s V6 capabilities? We've got you covered with a complete guide to Toyota’s FJ Cruiser and the benefits of its V6 engine.
Make safe driving pay
Get rewarded for safe driving. Earn points and unlock benefits. Totally free.
Start earning now
2014 Toyota FJ Cruiser V6
Starting price: $36,000.
Engine: 4.0 L 1GR-FE V6
Horsepower: 260 hp @ 5,600 rpm
Torque: 271 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm
0 to 60: 7.8 seconds
When Toyota first released the FJ cruiser in 2006, they decided to model the aesthetics after Toyota’s 1984 FJ40A—a classic offroader that was popular across the United States. Using a retro design helped Toyota attract attention from an older generation, but they also drew a younger crowd with upgrades like water-resistant upholstery, keyless entry, and a premium JBL sound system.
Every car also came with a standard V6 engine that improved on the FJ-line’s history of quality offroad performance.
Here are a few other notable features in the 2014 Toyota FJ Cruiser V6:
- Safety features: The FJ Cruiser expanded on Toyota’s previous safety specs by including upgraded brake assist, traction control, and electronic stability control for better handling in offroad conditions.
- Climate control: While the climate control wasn’t specifically improved from previous models, the retro style and intuitive knob design made the climate settings readily available to drivers and passengers.
- Audio: While the 2014 FJ Cruiser predates ApplePlay and other infotainment systems, it does include Bluetooth and a state-of-the-art JBL speaker system—which still holds up well against today’s audio competition.
How’s the fuel economy?
As an SUV you can expect relatively poor mileage from the 2014 FJ Cruiser. At only 17 mpg in the city and a measly 20 mpg on the highway, the Cruiser isn’t a friend to your wallet or the environment.
While the V6 engine drastically improved performance, it did not help with the FJ line’s pre-existing mileage issues
Which Toyota FJ Cruiser models have the V6?
Given the FJ Cruiser’s intention as a powerful offroad SUV, every FJ Cruiser model comes standard with a V6 engine. While models from 2006–2009 suffered from poor valve timing, later models would address and improve the issue with dual variable valve timing. The result was a stronger, more reliable engine.
How fast is the Toyota FJ Cruiser V6?
The FJ Cruiser V6 is great for offroading, but it wasn’t exactly built for speed. It takes a minimum of 7.8 seconds to go from 0-60 mph in the cruiser, and it maxes out at a top speed of 110 miles per hour.
While those aren’t the highest specs in the car industry, they hold up fairly well against the competition. Here are the 0-60 acceleration times for some of the FJ Cruiser’s biggest competitors:
Even though the Cruiser’s acceleration is slightly behind its competitors, the SUV still holds its own as a viable option for offroad activities.
Key Takeaway The Toyota FJ Cruiser V6 is built for offroad adventures, but its low fuel economy can make it a bit of a drain on your wallet.
Which is better: Toyota FJ Cruiser or Jeep Wrangler?
Both the FJ Cruiser and Jeep Wrangler can trace their origins back to a post-war fascination with the Jeep-style SUV. Army men and aspiring soldiers alike were astounded by the offroad performance and power of such reliable SUVs. The Wrangler and Cruiser even share a mechanical philosophy that led to their both including V6 engines, 5-speed transmissions, four-wheel drive.
That said, the Wrangler and Cruiser are almost identical in off- and on-road performance and price. But if we’re going by general opinion, most drivers will typically feel best satisfied by the Jeep Wrangler. It’s not that the Wrangler is especially better in any objective aspect; it’s simply that the Wrangler connects drivers to the road in a more obvious way than the Cruiser.
Either car is a great option for any offroad enthusiast, but the Wrangler is overall a more popular choice.
MORE:
Van vs. SUV
"I’m earning
awesome rewards
every week, just for driving safe!”
Patricia W.
Reviewed on 5/28/2023
How to find affordable insurance for your SUV
Whenever you set out for an offroad adventure, the first step is to ensure you have the proper car insurance coverage for the road. Luckily, finding affordable car insurance is faster and easier than ever with
Jerry
.
A licensed broker and trustworthy super app
, Jerry helps users compare personalized quotes from top providers like Progressive, Nationwide, and Allstate for free. Just download the app, answer a few questions, and choose a quote from the list of competitive offers Jerry sends straight to your phone.When you find a quote you like, Jerry can help you switch plans and even help cancel your old policy. Users save an average of $887 a year on car insurance with Jerry—and it only takes a minute to sign up.
“I thought my previous insurance rate was fair given the model of car I drive, but afterJerrygave me quotes, I realized I could pay only $84 a month for the same coverage through Plymouth Rock. I plan to shop for auto insurance through Jerry from now on!” —Jill I.
Compare insurance quotes from 50+ carriers with Jerry in under 45 seconds
Compare insurance quotes from 50+ carriers with Jerry in under 45 seconds
4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ driversFAQs
Does the FJ Cruiser come in V6?
All FJ Cruisers come with a V6 engine, but production stopped in North America in 2014. That said, you’ll need to search for a used model—but whatever you find will have a V6 engine.
Are V6 FJ Cruisers reliable?
FJ Cruisers are fairly reliable cars, lasting well over 200,000 miles when given the proper care. Of course, if it’s treated poorly or neglected, your Cruiser won’t last nearly as long.
.jpg&w=64&q=75){kind=avatar}
