Straightforward and rugged—that was the brief of the first Toyota Land Cruiser trucks, like the FJ generation from 1960. 

Another quality of the classic FJ is a charming appearance. The classic wore circular headlamps, sported the signal lights on its fenders, and as a three-door, a window on each of side of its upright body, including the C-pillar. 

So as the Land Cruiser name moved upmarket, the FJ Cruiser was made to continue the nameplate's rugged tradition. Launched in 2006, it was also made as a throwback to the old FJ by virtue of its styling.

Despite being 15 years old, the FJ Cruiser can still be bought brand-new today—here in the Philippines, at least. The model has been discontinued in other countries, making ours among the lucky few markets where the SUV is still offered as a new vehicle.

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) carries the FJ Cruiser in one variant, the 4.0L V6, priced at P2.098 million. 

Tech specs

Given the intentions and age of the FJ Cruiser, its tech specs are simple with a four-liter V6 gas engine with 268hp and 380Nm of torque. The mill is mated to a conventional five-speed automatic transmission, which manages the power going to all four wheels. 

Aside from a ground clearance of 240 millimeters, the FJ Cruiser's 4WD advantage comes from its locking differential. With no fancy terrain response tech, the driver has to assess which differential setting is needed for the terrain. 

The diff distributes the engine's power in a 40:60 split under most driving conditions. When locked, the differential switches to 50:50 power distribution. 

The FJ Cruiser's body-on-frame chassis is connected to a double wishbone suspension up front, and a four-link lateral road at the rear. 

Interior amenities

Opening the FJ Cruiser's suicide doors reveal fabric seats for all five occupants, and a leather-wrapped tiller. The two front perches make do with manual adjustment. 

Funky details include door and dashboard trims painted in the same color as the exterior, and a compass and clinometer on top of the dashboard.

Providing entertainment is an audio system with auxiliary, Bluetooth, and USB capabilities. The FJ's brochure also stated that the system features a DVD player and navigation. A single-zone and manual aircon cools the cabin. 

Safety

Aside from the prerequisite anti-lock brakes, the FJ Cruiser is packed with two airbags, stability control, and an immobilizer. Three-point seatbelts are fitted, including for the middle rear passenger, as are Isofix child seat mounts. 

Outside, the three wipers clean the wide front windshield, while a stop lamp mounted on the rear spoiler makes this SUV more visible to bigger trucks. 

Photos from Toyota

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