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Here’s a new comparison between the Jeep Wrangler Vs Toyota FJ Cruiser. We decided to revisit the two retro styled models for an updated comparison since one of us has actually bought one! This particular model of Jeep Wrangler has been around for a few years but it styling and purpose is still the same as the original. There are plenty of variations and one of the few truly customisable cars still for sale. In it’s home country the Wrangler an inexpensive aka very affordable car in base trim and can be likened to a Corolla in some parts of the country hence a popular choice.
The FJ Cruiser is a rare model made by Toyota that did not fit into their conservative and cars and SUVs for the masses philosophy. It was released in about 2006 so a been around for a few years with only a few incremental changes. Strangely only a factory in the US actually made left hand drive models only as a V6 petrol engine which limited its appeal globally, although no longer starting 2015. Since it was made in the US there where plenty of versions including AWD, RWD and manual transmission etc. However as sales dropped over time Australia and Japan where one of the few countries that you can still buy one new but with essentially the top range option pack. Sales probably tally 250,000 to date? The FJ Cruiser is not a failure since it was designed on 120 series Land cruiser Prado platform to appeal to a specific customers namely the ‘hipster’ and the nostalgic and trend setters it was priced accordingly. Due to its limited numbers and if Toyota does not make a replacement the FJ is virtually guaranteed to be a collectable like the original.
Jeep Wrangler Vs Toyota FJ Cruiser exterior: The Wrangler is retro inspired so it does look good at the same time. Of course designing a car not just based on but updated older model means that despite it’s physical size the interior has compromises that modern clean sheet design simply doesn’t have. Obvious compromises include front blind spots at the front. Rear vision is also physically restricted by bars and roof speakers but you would get used to it. The passenger space is not exactly roomy despite the quite large exterior. Since you can take the panels off means one of the few SUV convertibles for sale.
The FJ Cruiser has similar issues but the rear camera and distance sensors help when parking. There are blind spots out the front but minimal down the side and definitely no more than any other car or SUV. Anyone saying anything different should learn to drive properly. We assume that the smaller windows make you think that vision is a problem. The large mirrors and wide pillars restrict viewing things like traffic lights and other rude driver expecting you to slow down and let them in so they can go slower.
The Wrangler in base trim aka without any cosmetic option packs looks a little ordinary. On the other hand the FJ Cruiser looks good in the single model currently available. The FJ’s retro design was purposely retro to recall the earlier FJ40 and it succeeds. Since we are comparing the 2 door Wrangler against an arguably 2 door FJ but that’s taking away what are essentially a key feature which is the half doors on the FJ that are a cool feature. They aren’t ‘suicide doors’ since you can’t open them without opening the front first.
Jeep Wrangler Vs Toyota FJ Cruiser interior: The interior of the Jeep Wrangler is basic but looks OK. For the upgrade in 2013 the materials are better looking than the FJ but still looks a little commercial grade but with some nice touches like some chrome bits that distract. There isn’t any retro styling here just Chrylser inspired design which is fine. The better optioned and models made after 2014 with the interior upgrades are worth it for the nicer better looking seats. Regardless of upgrades it is still a cramped and has an awkward seating steering wheel arrangement.
The interior of the FJ Cruiser is likewise basic but actually has themes from the FJ55 Landcruiser rather then the FJ40 derived exterior. The materials are definitely commercial grade down to the rubber floors rather than carpet. It is forgivable since it hasn’t changed since introduction in 2006 and that it was intentionally designed that way. The steering wheels used on both models are quite nice the standard leather on the FJ better than plastic on the Wrangler. We prefer the revised dash treatment of the Wrangler but like the extra space in the FJ as much.
Despite the exterior size of both SUVs the interiors are not exactly the most spacious. Big rear wheel arches in both rears take up space and the roll bars in the Wrangler limit space even further. The FJ is larger on the inside and preferable since we are unlikely to drive anywhere without a roof and more than likely to carry people and boxes. There are pros and cons for both models. This applies to both 2 and 4 door Wranglers. The 4 door Wrangler appears to have more space but thanks to the design is still cramped.
Jeep Wrangler Vs Toyota FJ Cruiser technology: Both have current engine tech with standard V6 engines. The FJ Cruiser’s engine is shared with other SUVs including the Hilux and Prado for example and the Wranglers shared with other Jeeps and Chrysler’s. Both are pretty decent but the quieter FJ wins with a nicer exhaust note – rare for a modern Toyota. The FJ has arguably more off road tech and safety features while the standard Wrangler is quite basic although you can buy higher versions with more tech if required.
Jeep Wrangler Vs Toyota FJ Cruiser driving: It’s an easy win to the FJ Cruiser. It’s quieter on the road, nicer suspension, more interior space and smoother drive line. The Wrangler is not terrible but it’s not as stable. We tried both 2 and 4 door versions of the Wrangler. Both are quite zippy SUVs despite being relatively heavy the FJ leaving a better first impression. The FJ Cruiser has a surprising turn of speed after 4000rpm and a bellow out the back too – could almost be called character if it wasn’t a Toyota. Steering feel is next to zero too and cornering lean is noticeable in both. Finally the FJ is simply nicer to drive on the road except for some wind noise from the flat window screen, it is quieter than the Corolla on any road surface and Wrangler too.
Conclusion is simple buy the FJ Cruiser while you can. For a SUV designed primarily for the retro looks it surprisingly works without too many compromises. Each is really a SUV meant for off road travels but since they will spend more time on the road and in that sense the FJ is better. Both are proven off road and honestly it is the experience of the driver that will get the most out of cars. Reliability is always an issue to consider with a Jeep although improving apparently due to less complaints floating about so there more chances of getting problems than the FJ. Price is normally a factor but in this case while you do pay appropriately for what you get it is more bias toward the look for the car and while the FJ is for sale we think it’s the better one at this time.
| Jeep Wrangler | Toyota FJ Cruiser |
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| Engines | |
| Pentastar V6 Petrol DOHC VVT EFI 3.6 Litre (3600cc) Claimed 209Kw @ 6350RPM Claimed 347Nm @ 4300RPM |
1GR-FE V6 Petrol Quad Cam with VVTi EFI 4 Litre (3956cc) Claimed 200Kw @ 5600RPM Claimed 380Nm @ 4400RPM |
| 1L4 Diesel Turbo-charged – Inter-cooler Direct Injection – Common Rail 2.8 Litre (2777cc) Claimed 147Kw @ 3600RPM Claimed 460Nm @ 1600RPM |
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| Weight | |
| Kerb weight FROM 1913 Kg Towing capacity up to 1000Kg 2 Door |
Kerb weight 2000 Kg Towing capacity up to 2250kg |
| Fuel capacity & consumption | |
| Up to 70 litres V6 Petrol 11.5 litres per 100km IL4 Diesel 8.8 litres per 100km |
150 litres V6 Petrol 11.4 litres per 100km |
| Other specifications | |
| 5 speed Auto or 6 speed manual Overall height/width 1865/1873 Overall length/wheelbase 4223-4751/2424-2947 Tyre size: 245-75-17 NCAP safety rating 4/5 |
5 speed Auto Overall height/width 1830/1905 Overall length/wheelbase 4670/2790 Tyre size: 265-70-17 NCAP safety rating 4/5 |
| Capability | |
| Angle of: (degrees) Approach Departure Breakover Min ground clearance xxx mm Water Fording depth xxx mm Max 4WD system: 4WDs |
Angle of: (degrees) Approach Departure Breakover Min ground clearance xxx mm Water Fording depth xxx mm Max 4WD system: 4WD |
| Performance | |
| Pricing | |
| 2014 $33,990 – 52,990 AUD *Always check with the dealer for up to date pricing, specifications, on-road costs, accessories and specials etc.. everything as usual is subject to change! |
2014 $47,990 AUD |