2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser is the Trail Teams Special Edition’s new Radiant Red appearance. The regular FJ Cruiser otherwise carries over with no major powertrain, safety, tech, or structural updates.
About the 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser
1st and only U.S. generation (2007-2014), late-cycle year with no significant update.
Toyota positioned the FJ Cruiser as a retro-styled off-road SUV that mixed classic FJ40 looks with modern-day reliability and everyday usability. The big draw was not luxury or family-room practicality; it was real trail capability, a durable easy-clean cabin, and unmistakable styling. Compared with softer crossovers, the FJ was the choice for shoppers who wanted a truck-based SUV with personality and genuine back-road ability.
Toyota positioned the 2012 FJ Cruiser as a five-passenger, heritage-themed SUV built for off-road use but equipped for everyday driving. The base model has a 260-hp V6, Bluetooth and USB audio connectivity, water-resistant cloth seats, heavy-duty vinyl flooring, skid plates, and front and rear tow hooks.
What changed, by category
2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 4.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd |
| Drivetrain | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 20 mpg |
| Horsepower | 260 hp |
| Torque | 271 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 5000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 66.8 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 31.3 in |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Alarm System | |
| Rear View Camera | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| Roof Rails | |
| Bluetooth | |
| Premium Audio | |
| Satellite Radio | |
| USB Ports | |
| Tilt Wheel | |
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser compared with the 2011 model?
The main change is the Trail Teams Special Edition’s new Radiant Red appearance. The regular FJ Cruiser carries over without a major mechanical, safety, technology, or structural update.
Was the 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser redesigned?
No, the 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser was not redesigned. It remained part of the same generation introduced for 2007 and received no significant lineup-wide update for 2012.
Did the 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser get a new engine or transmission?
No, the 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser kept the existing 260-hp 4.0-liter V6 and the same transmission lineup.
What is different about the 2012 FJ Cruiser Trail Teams Special Edition?
The 2012 Trail Teams Special Edition is distinguished by a new Radiant Red appearance theme. It was the year’s headline update rather than a change applied to every FJ Cruiser.