It is done. One of Toyota South Africa’s longest-serving models has quietly been retired. After an impressive dozen years on the market, the FJ Cruiser has now removed from the Toyota catalogue.
After a remarkable 12-year run, the Toyota FJ Cruiser has bid adieu to South Africa. The Toyota FJ Cruiser made its debut in 2006 and arrived in South Africa in 2011. The ladder-frame SUV was priced at R813 000 before its local discontinuation, and it came equipped with Toyota’s familiar naturally aspirated 4,0-litre V6 petrol powerplant. The FJ cruiser delivers 200 kW and 380 N.m of torque to all 4 wheels via a 5-speed automatic transmission.
Related: Toyota FJ Cruiser will have one Final Edition before being retired
The FJ Cruiser’s interior boasted leather seats, a leather multifunction steering wheel, cruise control, manual air conditioning, an overhead switchboard, a six-speaker sound system, and a reverse camera. The last models of the FJ Cruiser came with a 9-inch infotainment screen that included onboard navigation and support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the standard version came with a radio with Bluetooth support. The exterior of the Cruiser was fitted with mudguards, side steps, scuff plates, and 17-inch alloy wheels.
Despite being discontinued in South Africa, the Toyota remains a popular choice for those seeking a rugged and capable off-roader. Its unique styling and impressive capabilities make it a standout in its class, and its relatively short run on the market could make it a sought-after collector’s item in the years to come.
The FJ Cruiser’s exterior design was inspired by Toyota’s legendary FJ40 Land Cruiser, which was popular during the 1960s and 1970s. The FJ Cruiser’s design featured a distinctive two-tone paint job with a white roof and a coloured body. The car’s round headlights and grille, as well as its overall boxy shape, made it an eye-catching presence on the road.
The model was also built to handle off-road adventures with ease. Its high ground clearance, short wheelbase, and impressive approach and departure angles make it capable of tackling even the toughest terrain. The car’s off-road capabilities were also further enhanced by features such as a locking rear differential, active traction control, and crawl control.
The FJ Cruiser was a unique and capable off-roader that made its mark on the South African market. Its powerful engine, impressive capabilities, and distinctive styling made it a standout in its class, and its short run on the market could make it a sought-after collector’s item in the future.
The Toyota FJ Cruiser may no longer be available as a new vehicle, however the CARmag listings section has under a dozen listed – view here.
