The Toyota FJ Cruiser. The Most Expensive Used Car Ever

When it comes to car shopping, drivers have so many options it’s difficult to quantify. For many drivers shopping for a used car is the way to go. Its economically sound, helps you avoid depreciation on a new car, and lets you get into a model year you like rather than what just hit the lineup.

While shopping for a used ride can save you a lot of money, there are some elusive models out there that are actually more expensive than some new cars. One particular vehicle that fits this criteria is the elusive and iconic Toyota FJ Cruiser. Today we’re walking through how this vehicle has all but skirted depreciation and why it’s such a cult followed car. Read along with us at Toyota of Clermont here!

Why is the FJ Cruiser so Expensive?

In almost every case scenario involving a Clermont used car they are valued at a certain price point and then lose a large chunk of value when you drive off the lot. Used models will continue to lose value as mileage is accumulated, damage is done, and time passes by. One particular model that’s experienced the opposite is the Toyota FJ Cruiser.

For over a half a decade since its production end the Clermont FJ Cruiser has risen in value (some selling for $40,000 and up). This used car SUV looks more like a concept than a production vehicle and is truly an interesting case study in popular vehicles. Before we dive into some of the things that set this SUV apart from other used vehicles out there, here are a few historical points to keep in mind:

• The FJ Cruiser concept was unveiled in 2003 and was then put into production with little modification. This is the vehicle where Toyota’s iconic Voodoo Blue paint color came from.
• Design for the FJ Cruiser was inspired by the Land Cruiser FJ40 (especially the unique round headlights). Toyota wanted this model to be capable and emulate off-roading ruggedness.
• 2014 was the last year the Clermont FJ Cruiser was in production in North America and it has been a cult followed used car ever since.
• It wasn’t discontinued in Japan until 2018 and is still sold in other markets Toyota is involved in.

An Icon of an SUV

Like we said, cars often depreciate for a wide variety of factors. The Clermont Toyota FJ Cruiser has somehow managed to avoid all that and has become something of a modern day classic car. The original MSRP clocked in around $27,000 — $29,000 depending on options but you’d be hard-pressed to find a used car of one for anything less than $30,000 today.

The FJ was and is still truly a unique ride. Here are some of the features that likely contribute to its inflated value:

• Unique to the FJ and similar to some luxury SUVs, the interior accent paneling on the infotainment system and doors matches the exterior paint color.
• The 4.0-liter V6 engine under the hood (very similar to what’s available in the modern day 4Runner) is hailed as a endurance beast that can last longer than 500,000 miles in some cases. The chassis, suspension, and adjacent engineering is also praised for its longevity.
• For it’s time, the used car FJ Cruiser sported a unique white roof option. Not only did this translate to a modern option for several Toyota models but its highly effective at keeping your vehicle’s cabin cool on hot sunny days.
• There’s no middle structural pillar in the FJ Cruiser’s cabin and it features clam shell (also known as suicide) doors. This feature is unique, but draws criticism for its difficulty to enter the back seats.
• The infotainment and climate controls are very simple but clean. Plus a unique shift handle and drivetrain shifter round out the no-frills aesthetic.

Get Behind an Excellent Used Car at Toyota of Clermont Today!

It’s hard to deny enigmatic nature of the FJ Cruiser with its design and engineering. While we don’t often see this used car on our lot here at Toyota of Clermont, that doesn’t mean we can’t get you behind the wheel of the ride you’re looking for!

Visit Toyota of Clermont at 16851 State Road 50 today and shop our inventory online anytime.