Off-Road Showdown: Comparing the Toyota FJ Cruiser Vs 4Runner

Toyota is a brand synonymous with reliability, durability, and performance. Two of their most popular vehicles, the FJ Cruiser, and the 4Runner have become fan favorites among off-road enthusiasts and everyday drivers. Both cars stand out from other SUVs on the market because of their excellent capabilities and distinctive appearance. 

So what difference we found while comparing the Toyota FJ Cruiser vs 4Runner? Well, in terms of design and comfort, the 4Runner is much more modern and sleek. Also if you care for safety, the 4Runner slightly outperforms the FJ Cruser too. While the FJ Cruser is going to cost you less, the two-engine choice from 4Runner is surely a winner. 

By comparing the FJ Cruiser vs 4Runner’s designs, performances, safety, dependability, and prices, you may learn which Toyota SUV performs better off-road. Choose the one that best meets your needs after doing your research.

Table: Comparing the Toyota FJ Cruiser vs 4Runner

Both cars have their own distinct features that offer a lot to consumers. Here is a short list comparing the Toyota FJ Cruiser vs 4Runner. We will further discuss these points later in the article. Have a look: 

Features	Toyota FJ Cruiser	Toyota 4Runner
Exterior Design	Retro-style look with a powerful front grille, rounded headlamps, and broad stance	Modern and sleek design with a sloping front grille and sharp, angular lines.
Performance and Capability	4.0-liter V6 engine with 260 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque.	2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque.
		4.0-liter V6 that generates 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque
Transmission	Part-time four-wheel drive system with a two-speed transfer case and a rear differential lock	Part-time four-wheel-drive system and a full-time four-wheel-drive system that is optional
Interior and Comfort	Retro-inspired circular gauges and controls.	Contemporary cabin with a touchscreen infotainment system.
	Power-adjustable front seats, leather or cloth upholstery	Power-adjustable front seats, leather or cloth upholstery,
	Plenty of head- and legroom for passengers	Plenty of head- and legroom for passengers
Safety and Reliability	Four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. No rating from the IIHS	Five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Recognized as a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS
Price and Value	Starting at $36,000	Starting at around $37,000

Comparing the Toyota FJ Cruiser vs 4Runner

Due to their comparable off-road performance and characteristics, the Toyota FJ Cruiser and 4Runner are two well-known SUVs from the manufacturer that are frequently compared. So let’s look at the key factors that you should look out for.

Exterior Design

Although both the Toyota FJ Cruiser and 4Runner have unique external design features, they were both created with off-road capability in mind. The boxy, retro-style look of the FJ Cruiser is a tribute to the first Toyota FJ40 Land Cruiser. It has a robust look thanks to its powerful front grille, rounded headlamps, and broad stance. 

On the other hand, the 4Runner has a more modern and sleek design with a sloping front grille and sharp, angular lines. It still maintains a muscular appearance with flared fenders and high ground clearance.

Performance and Capability

For off-road fans, the Toyota FJ Cruiser and 4Runner have excellent performance, but their many engine choices and drivetrains alter their overall capabilities. 

A 4.0-liter V6 engine with 260 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque is standard on the FJ Cruiser. In order to increase traction, it also incorporates a part-time four-wheel drive system with a two-speed transfer case and a rear differential lock. 

On the other hand, the 4Runner has two different engine choices. A 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. Or it’s a 4.0-liter V6 generating 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft torque. 

Moreover, it also includes a part-time four-wheel-drive system and a full-time four-wheel-drive system that is optional.

Interior and Comfort

Although both the Toyota FJ Cruiser and 4Runner have roomy, pleasant cabins, they differ in terms of equipment and conveniences. 

The 4Runner sports a more contemporary cabin with a touchscreen infotainment system, in contrast to the FJ Cruiser’s retro-inspired circular gauges and controls. 

Overall, both cars include power-adjustable front seats, leather or cloth upholstery, and plenty of head- and legroom for passengers.

Safety and Reliability

Both the Toyota FJ Cruiser and 4Runner include a variety of safety features, although the NHTSA and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 4Runner superior safety ratings. 

In contrast to the FJ Cruiser, which has a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and has not been assessed by the IIHS, the 4Runner has obtained a five-star overall safety. The rating is from the NHTSA and has been recognized as a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.

Price and Value

The beginning costs for the Toyota FJ Cruiser and 4Runner are different; the FJ Cruiser starts at $36,000 and the 4Runner starts at around $37,000. The price difference might change based on the options chosen and the trim level.

Both the FJ Cruiser and the 4Runner are well-priced for what they are. However, the 4Runner may be more worthwhile due to its superior safety rankings, expected dependability rating, ToyotaCare maintenance and roadside support program. 

However, individuals who value having a distinctive and robust off-road vehicle may find the FJ Cruiser to be more valuable.

Conclusion

When it comes to Toyota FJ cruiser vs 4runner, both the Toyota FJ Cruiser and 4Runner are fantastic choices. The 4Runner has a more solid warranty and maintenance program. It also has a better-expected dependability rating and higher safety ratings than the FJ Cruiser.

It’s crucial to take your tastes and personal priorities when choosing between the two. The FJ Cruiser could be a better option for you if you value a distinctive style and off-road capability.  The 4Runner would be a better option if you place a higher priority on safety, dependability, and a more extensive warranty and maintenance program.