Hi guys, coming over from the 4th gen forum to ask you 5th gen guys if any of you left an FJ to go into your 5th g and why.
Other than the blinds spots and weird doors, what do I need to know?
I owned an FJ Cruiser for just over 6 years and just traded it in for my new TE 4Runner.
I really liked the FJ Cruiser. The drivetrain is great, I loved the firm suspension.
It handled great on road and off.
I didnt like the lack of visibility much. You get used to it but it still is annoying.
My kids didnt like the back seat. Access is difficult plus there is no ventilation back there. Very little visibility back there.
There were many styling/design issues that I didnt love, but I bought it for the suspoension and drivetrain.
I got a great deal on it originally so I didnt mind the lack of certain comforts.
The AC and heat worked very well. No issues keeping windshield clear.
The angle did make the windshield more prone to damage. I had to replace the windshield a few times.
However, for a family car it was not a good choice. I should have bought a 4 Runner instead back then.
The Trail Edition has as many or more of the offraod features (locker, ATRAC, etc).
The 4Runner Trail does feel softer with regards to the ride. ALso, the 4Runner is not as quick off the line. The power feels softer even though the engine should have more power than my 2008 V6, and they both have the same suspension.
I think maybe the 4Runner has more fuel efficient controls in place.
The 4RUnner comes with so much stuff in comparison. On the FJ everything was an option.
I wish I could have afforded to keep the FJC as a personal offroad car in addition to the 4Runner, but if I had to pick one, the 4Runner is a better fit for my family.
The FJC was very reliable. Even the stock battery lasted over 6 years!
I did have 2 issues. The front caliper had 2 seized pistons and a front wheel bearing went bad. I think both were due to corrosion.
My extended warranty covered both.