Then Vs. Now: How the original FJ Cruiser compares to the new model – Jalopnik

The Toyota FJ Cruiser is something of a cult classic. It debuted nearly 20 years ago, first appearing as a 2007 model year, and while it was met with harsh criticism by some, it has become beloved by so many more. It has the same qualities you’d expect from a Toyota so closely related to the evergreen Land Cruiser, such as reliable powertrains, genuine off-road capability and a comfortable cabin. However, the style of the FJ Cruiser – and its uniquely interesting name – wasn’t for everyone, and could certainly be a bit divisive.

Regardless, a lot of people loved it, and many still do. Most models often change hands for between $25,000 and $40,000, even if they are approaching 20 years old with higher mileage and modifications. This demonstrates the Cruiser’s enduring popularity, and with owners eager to part with such sums for twenty-year-old models, perhaps this is also why Toyota thought launching a new generation couldn’t be a bad idea. Funnily enough, we figured out years ago that a new FJ Cruiser would be a big hit, and we’re happy to see that Toyota clearly shared the same thinking.

The all-new FJ Cruiser has been confirmed and will be based on the Compact Cruiser EV concept, which was unveiled ahead of the Japanese Mobility Show. While there are certainly similarities between the new and old models, there are also plenty of differences. Key changes include a size difference, details around the powertrain and what’s included in terms of safety and technology. While some details have yet to be confirmed, here’s what we know so far and how the new model compares to the original FJ Cruiser.

First things first, while the new FJ Cruiser will be based on the design of the Compact Cruiser EV, it won’t have an electric powertrain. As cool as it may be to see Toyota develop an all-electric off-roader, the new FJ will rely on good old-fashioned gasoline instead. Under the hood, owners will find a 2.7-liter naturally aspirated inline-four engine. This is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and produces 160 horsepower in addition to 181 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to all four wheels, as is typical of any member of Toyota’s legendary Cruiser family.

The old FJ Cruiser takes a completely different approach. First of all, the old model has six cylinders, not four, and they are aligned in a V formation. The capacity of this V6 is set at 4.0 liters, dwarfing the 2.7 liter capacity of the new model. It’s also naturally aspirated, but that’s about it because of the similarities. The old FJ’s growl can also be sent to each corner of the car via an automatic gearbox, although all-wheel drive was optional in addition to a six-speed manual. The standard automatic transmission has only five gears instead of six. Power is plentiful with 239 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, so in a numbers game the old FJ runs over the new.

The original FJ Cruiser was far from full-size, but despite the fact that most cars get bigger with new generations, Toyota has seemingly put the new model on a diet. Here are some stats: The 2007 FJ was 183.9 inches long, 74.6 inches wide, 71.6 inches high and had a wheelbase of 105.9 inches. By comparison, the new FJ is shorter at 180.1 inches long and with a 101.6-inch wheelbase. It is also narrower and is 73 inches wide. Interestingly, though, it’s a whopping 5.6 inches larger, giving the new model a noticeably different look.

Toyota has yet to confirm whether the two FJ Cruiser generations will have very different weights, but the new dimensions make this likely. While the old model tips the scales at a hefty 4,295 pounds, we’ll have to wait to see what the new model checks in at. Still, judging by the less powerful engine and smaller dimensions, we can expect it to be considerably lower.

One of the great selling points of the early FJ Cruiser was that it embodied so much cool retro style borrowed from the original FJ series Land Cruiser. Not only was the exterior heavily influenced by the retro styling, but so was the interior, which featured big chunky buttons, dash-mounted gauges and a simplistic dashboard layout.

This is where the new model differs so much, as it takes away the retro look and instead embraces a bold and modern aesthetic. Think bright lights, digital gauges, a bulky infotainment screen and an absolute number of clunky-looking and touch-sensitive buttons. It’s a completely different direction, and yet there’s some lineage to be seen from generation to generation, as the upcoming FJ also features a chunky and slab-sided design for the overall dashboard layout.

While the original model’s infotainment originally included highlights such as a CD player and FM radio, the new FJ features a more comprehensive package. The central screen will include a range of now expected features such as navigation and phone connectivity. It’s almost guaranteed to also include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, matching the capabilities of other models in Toyota’s current range. Additionally, the new model will likely have features from Toyota’s Safety Sense, including blind spot detection systems and adaptive cruise control, although concrete details on what exactly is included are not yet available.

Love it or hate it, the old FJ Cruiser had character. Some of that character came from the numerous interesting little quirks it had, such as rear-hinged rear doors. They served countless purposes, like making the FJ look like a stylish two-door, making it easily accessible, and, well, just looking cool themselves. Perhaps the second point should actually be deleted. Sure, with all the doors open, that large space would make getting in and out nice and easy, but it also means that the rear passengers won’t be able to get out until the front door is also open. The rear passengers also needed the front passenger to get out so the seat could be moved out of the way. Annoying, but hey, it still looks cool.

Practical enthusiasts will no doubt be pleased to see that the new FJ ditches the rear-hinged rear doors in favor of a much more conventional set of four doors. Sure, it loses some of its quirk and character there, but the new FJ isn’t just trying to be a repeat of the old model. It really needs to work in the modern world, and regular doors will work so much better for families who plan to use the backseat on a daily basis.