2014 Toyota FJ Cruiser - the last to be released in US
Toyota announced that, at the start of August, the automaker will cease production of the legendary FJ Cruiser 4x4 SUV; the end to a story that began in 2006 and helped create some of today's best modern sport utility vehicles.
While the Toyota FJ Cruiser hasn't frequented the new model lineup here in Arlington for some time, that hasn’t stopped its legacy from spreading across the world. As a fun, capable, four-door adventure vehicle, this boxy 4x4 was the perfect solution for drivers in Fort Worth, Dallas and Irving who wanted to push the limits of the road, but weren't really looking to push their budgets.
The FJ Cruiser was built from the ground up to offer practical and retro-styled performance with true Toyota grit and durability. It could traverse tough trails thanks to best-in-brand approach and departure angles, but with attractive features like cool clamshell rear doors, a dual-open rear hatch, and standard navigation, it made for a great daily driver, too.
The interior used both modern and retro designs
Tony Cramb, executive director sales and marketing for Toyota Australia, said of the iconic model:
"The FJ rides into the sunset as a vehicle renowned for its ability to traverse rugged outback trails while offering plenty of utility for all types of activities and being equally well-suited for everyday driving ... It will leave lasting memories as one of the most iconic vehicles in Toyota's rich SUV history, helping to bring renewed energy to the Toyota brand."
Many rough-and-tumble off-roaders have fallen victim in just the past few years to an industry that's increasingly moving toward fuel-efficient and easygoing crossovers (think Toyota RAV4). But even with the shift in market preferences, the brand's FJ Cruiser models have enjoyed impressive resale values and popularity in circles that still prize these SUVs as the best in the business.
The rugged FJ Cruiser was introduced into production back in 2006 to pay homage to, and rekindle, the FJ40 of '60s- and 70's-era fame. The new model added two additional doors, some extra interior passenger and cargo space, and modern technology to appeal to the contemporary driver, but many of its design features were taken explicitly from the original SUV. From its tight-set and rounded headlights to its throwback rectangular shape, the fresh new FJ made quite the splash.
It enjoyed moderate success in the US and beyond, until Toyota made the decision to halt production for the North American market following the 2014 model year. In August of 2016, production will end entirely for the last remaining global markets. While we are sad to see the end of a legacy, we can take comfort in knowing that it helped drive capability and design for other models within the current and future lineup.
Goodbye to a legend
