With Toyota’s California-based Calty design studio celebrating its 50th anniversary, what better time to rummage through the Calty back catalog in search of contemporary collectibles? The studio’s goal was to combine SoCal auto culture with Toyota’s practical underpinnings, and sometimes it succeeded. This was the case with the FJ Cruiser, a retro-themed midsize SUV that was essentially a 4Runner with added excitement.
This 2014 model year FJ Cruiser is being auctioned on Bring a Trailer, which, like Car and Driver, is owned by Hearst Autos. With 94,000 miles on the odometer, it’s barely broken in by Toyota standards, and the Quicksand beige paint complements the white roof beautifully. A shorter wheelbase than the related 4Runner gives the 17-inch wheels an even chunkier appearance, and the round headlights flawlessly capture the original FJ40’s spirit.
When it was introduced for the 2007 model year, the FJ Cruiser provided Toyota with a much-needed image boost. The brand was well-known for its dependability and practicality, but the FJ Cruiser helped bring the fun back in functional. Look! Three windshield blades are installed! Weird half-doors opening to the rear! Retro exterior mirrors!
And underneath, the FJ Cruiser was essentially a shortened 4Runner, making it an excellent off-road vehicle. On the road, however, the combination of a thirsty 260-horsepower 4.0-liter V-6 engine and ponderous handling attracted criticism from critics. In a review of a 2009 model, we concluded, “Driving the FJ is comparable to sailing a boat.”
Nevertheless, the FJ Cruiser was a much superior road companion than the contemporary Jeep Wrangler with its dual live axles. Moreover, a truck-like driving experience is part of the appeal of Tonka Toys. If you desire a RAV4, purchase a RAV4. The FJ Cruiser is designed to transform mundane tasks into expeditions.
Supposedly accident-free, this example has resided in New Mexico, Nevada, and now Washington, all of which are natural habitats for Toyota’s off-road species. The charcoal fabric interior appears to be in good condition and should withstand plenty of camping-related maltreatment. Additionally, the mileage is low for a Toyota, but not so low that you will not want to drive.
This FJ Cruiser is equipped for outdoor activities with 67 cubic feet of stowage space when the rear seats are folded down, as well as a roof rack and optional tow hitch for any additional gear. Even better, since these vehicles were discontinued, demand has remained high. Toyota could readily sell a new FJ Cruiser if it so desired, but until then, the FJ Cruiser continues to be in high demand. It is a contemporary collectible that is prepared for adventure.
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