Toyota stopped making the FJ Cruiser in 2014

Toyota discontinued the FJ Cruiser after the 2014 model year. The vehicle is no longer in production anywhere in the world, and Toyota has not announced plans to bring it back. If you want an FJ Cruiser, you will need to buy a used model from the 2007–2014 production run.

The FJ Cruiser was built for 8 model years total. Production began in 2007 and ended in June 2014. During that time, Toyota made roughly 200,000 units across all markets combined, though the majority were sold in North America and Japan.

Key Takeaways

  • The FJ Cruiser was discontinued in 2014 and is not currently manufactured by Toyota.
  • Used FJ Cruisers from 2007 to 2014 are still available on the secondhand market, though prices have risen significantly since production ended.
  • Toyota has not announced a new FJ Cruiser model, though the company has released other retro-styled vehicles like the 2024 4Runner redesign.
  • If you want a new Toyota SUV with similar off-road capability, the 4Runner, Tacoma, and Sequoia remain in production.

Why Toyota stopped making the FJ Cruiser

The FJ Cruiser was a niche vehicle with a dedicated following but limited mainstream appeal. Sales declined steadily after 2010, and by 2013–2014, demand had dropped enough that Toyota decided to end production. The vehicle was also expensive to manufacture relative to its sales volume, and it did not meet the fuel economy standards that regulators were beginning to enforce more strictly.

The FJ Cruiser's boxy, retro design was intentional—it was meant to evoke the original 1960s FJ40 Land Cruiser. That styling made it when ready recognizable but also limited its market. Many buyers who wanted an SUV preferred the more conventional look of the 4Runner or the smaller footprint of the RAV4. The FJ Cruiser occupied a middle ground that was too small for families who needed three rows of seating and too expensive for buyers looking for basic transportation.

Used FJ Cruiser prices and availability

Used FJ Cruisers are still available through dealerships, private sellers, and online marketplaces like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and Autotrader. Prices vary widely depending on mileage, condition, and model year. Earlier models (2007–2010) typically cost less than later ones (2011–2014), but all FJ Cruisers have appreciated in value since production ended.

A 2007 FJ Cruiser with high mileage might sell for $12,000 to $18,000, while a 2014 model with lower mileage could command $20,000 to $28,000 or more. Prices fluctuate based on local market conditions, and well-maintained examples with desirable features (like a manual transmission or special color) often sell for above the typical range. Because the FJ Cruiser has a strong collector following, condition and maintenance history matter more than they do for many other used SUVs.

What to check when buying a used FJ Cruiser

The FJ Cruiser is generally reliable, but certain issues appear more often in older examples. Check the transmission fluid for signs of slipping or rough shifts, especially in models with the automatic transmission. The cooling system should be inspected carefully—some FJ Cruisers have experienced radiator failures, particularly in hot climates or if the vehicle was used for towing.

Examine the frame and undercarriage for rust, especially if the vehicle was used in a region where roads are salted in winter. The FJ Cruiser's body-on-frame construction means rust can develop in hidden areas. Have a pre-purchase inspection done by a mechanic familiar with Toyota SUVs before you commit to buying. Request service records to verify that routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid flushes) was performed on schedule.

The interior can show wear, particularly the dashboard and door panels, which are prone to cracking in sun-exposed vehicles. This is cosmetic rather than mechanical, but it affects resale value and comfort. Test the air conditioning, power windows, and locks—these components are common failure points on older FJ Cruisers.

Toyota SUVs you can buy new instead

If you want a new Toyota SUV with off-road capability similar to what the FJ Cruiser offered, your main options are the 4Runner, Tacoma, and Sequoia. The 4Runner is the closest match—it is a full-size, body-on-frame SUV with genuine off-road engineering and a loyal following. Toyota redesigned the 4Runner for 2024 with a more modern interior and updated technology, though it retains the boxy exterior that appeals to FJ Cruiser fans.

The Tacoma is a mid-size pickup truck that shares the FJ Cruiser's off-road DNA and compact footprint. It is lighter and more fuel-efficient than the 4Runner but offers less interior space. The Sequoia is a three-row SUV built on the same platform as the Tacoma, designed for families who need seating for up to eight passengers while maintaining off-road capability.

None of these vehicles replicate the FJ Cruiser exactly—the FJ's combination of compact size, retro styling, and genuine off-road hardware was unique. But if you prioritize off-road performance and Toyota reliability over the specific look and feel of the FJ, these alternatives are worth test-driving.

Whether a new FJ Cruiser might return

Toyota has not announced any plans to revive the FJ Cruiser. The company has shown interest in retro-styled vehicles—the 2024 4Runner redesign includes nods to classic Land Cruiser styling, and Toyota released the boxy GR Corolla and GR86 in recent years. However, the FJ Cruiser's specific market position (a small, expensive, niche SUV) does not align with current industry trends toward electrification and fuel efficiency.

If Toyota were to bring back a retro SUV, it would more likely be a new Land Cruiser variant or a completely redesigned model rather than a direct FJ Cruiser successor. The automotive market has shifted significantly since 2014, and any new vehicle would need to meet stricter emissions standards and offer better fuel economy than the original FJ achieved. For now, used examples remain the only way to own an FJ Cruiser.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still get parts for a used FJ Cruiser?

Yes. Toyota still stocks many OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts for the FJ Cruiser, and aftermarket suppliers offer a wide range of replacement and upgrade components. The FJ Cruiser has an active enthusiast community, so parts availability is better than it would be for a more obscure vehicle. Local Toyota dealerships can order parts, and online retailers specializing in Toyota SUVs carry common items like filters, belts, and brake pads.

Is the FJ Cruiser a good investment?

FJ Cruisers have held their value better than most SUVs from the same era, and some well-maintained examples have appreciated. However, buying a used vehicle as an investment is risky—repair costs, fuel consumption, and insurance all eat into any potential gain. If you buy an FJ Cruiser, do so because you want to drive it, not because you expect to make money.

What is the difference between the FJ Cruiser and the 4Runner?

The FJ Cruiser is smaller, lighter, and more fuel-efficient than the 4Runner. The 4Runner seats up to eight passengers and has more cargo space, while the FJ Cruiser seats five and prioritizes maneuverability. The FJ Cruiser has a more distinctive retro design, while the 4Runner looks more conventional. Both are body-on-frame SUVs with solid off-road capability.

How many miles can an FJ Cruiser last?

Well-maintained FJ Cruisers regularly exceed 200,000 miles. Toyota's reputation for durability applies to the FJ Cruiser, and many owners report their vehicles running reliably well past 150,000 miles with routine maintenance. The key is consistent oil changes, fluid flushes, and prompt repair of any issues that arise.