Fans of the FJ Cruiser believed it will return to the US dealerships. But, it is not going to happen. Instead, the 2023 Toyota FJ Cruiser will be the last edition of this retro-looking off-road SUV. The production is closing with the special edition of the vehicle. For the last time, the FJ Cruiser will update the lineup in the Middle East, with the Final Edition package.
The SUV was a very intriguing model. Its old-school look was drawing attention. We can compare it to the Hummer, but it was less exclusive, and more performance-oriented. Well, it was one of the reasons for the discontinuation in the US. There are few other factors why we didn’t see it here since 2014. Toyota continued the production and the latest news is killing every hope that the 2023 Toyota FJ Cruiser might come back.
For the final appearance, the Japanese company is preparing a special package. Toyota will say goodbye to the FJ Cruiser with the Final Edition. After that, there is no reason to believe in its return.
2023 Toyota FJ Cruiser Final Edition
This one is official – the 2023 Toyota FJ Cruiser enters the final chapter with the Final Edition package. This model will be limited to 1,000 units and the Middle East market. Not only in the US but also in other regions, the sales ended in past years. The SUV survived only in Middle East and the Final Edition is the reward for loyalty.
All the Final Edition SUVs will be available only in beige color. The grille is blacked out, which makes the overall appearance more attractive. The same approach is notable on bumpers, door handles, and mirror caps. One of the trademark features is still there – the spare tire box on the tailgate. Side steps are standard, as well as a set of 17-inch alloy wheels. Of course, a few badges around the body are necessary.
There are no too many details available for the interior. From the photos, we see the same colors as outside. The beige dashboard contrasts with black leather upholstery. Of course, we expect more from the final appearance. Advanced options and features will be included in those 1,000 models.
Specs
So, we are saying goodbye to one of the most capable off-roaders out there. Not too many SUVs can compete with the 2023 Toyota FJ Cruiser in tough conditions. As we said, the styling reminds us to Hummer, but the overall impression is that the SUV is a very close relative to the 4Runner. Both models are using a 4.0-liter V6 engine. It creates 270 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. The American SUV is not close to the end of production. All contrary – the 4Runner is being prepared for the sixth generation. Anyway, we can hear that a large V6 is about to be replaced with a smaller block. To keep the outputs at high levels, engineers will install turbochargers. Also, a hybrid setup might be an option.
Short History of the FJ Cruiser
The SUV was first built in 2006. The styling and performances immediately stole the show. The body-on-frame platform promised a lot of off-road fun. Even the suspension and shocks setup improve the performance on various terrains. The FJ Cruiser was first released in the US only. The market was expanded to Japan in 2010. Well, the Final Edition in its homeland happened in 2017. Now, the production is coming to an end in its final resort – the Middle East.
The styling of the SUV was splitting opinions ever since its first appearance. While some experts criticized the aggressive approach, others loved it. But, no one could complain about the performance. Most safety ratings are good, but the blind spots were too big. The cargo capacity was not so generous, and access to the rear seats is not so easy. Development of the new model would cost too much and Toyota decided to discontinue the FJ Cruiser in the US. The styling was looking cool, but it was not too aesthetic. Plus, the outdated interior needed a complete overhaul. Bosses estimated that investment wouldn’t pay off.
What Will Happen With the 2023 Toyota FJ Cruiser?
The life of one nameplate come to an end. The 2023 Toyota FJ Cruiser will be the last run of the SUV. The Final Edition is going to be a collectible model for all the hard-core fans. However, Toyota won’t slap some crazy price tag on it. Expect the 2023 FJ Cruiser Final Edition to be a bit more expensive, though.
We don’t know anything about the successor. The 4Runner is available in the US market. Buyers in the rest of the world can find other Toyota SUVs for off-road fun. The Fortuner is one of the interesting alternatives, although it is bigger. We’ll see what the Land Cruiser Prado is about to bring.