Although the FJ Cruiser is one tough truck, as proven in its victory against the Nissan Xterra in a recent Inside Line face-off, it does have one overly sensitive area, its alarm system. Many of us have discovered that the optional "Security RS3200 Plus system with proximity sensor" system will go off with the slightest provocation.
While having dinner at a pizza joint in a strip mall, the FJ started honking its horn and flashing its lights. It was right outside the window and I was bewildered as to what set it off -- curious folks taking a peek inside maybe?..
As we couldn't see any way to adjust the system's sensitivity, we contacted Toyota, who stated that no, it's not adjustable but it can be shut off, and that if you plan to park in an area where falsing may occur, you may want to shut it off. Hmmm, kinda defeats the purpose, ya think?
On a different note (literally), I like the subtle growl that our FJ's optional TRD performance exhaust puts forth. With the windows up, it's hard to tell it has it, but with 'em down you know this FJ's not running a standard exhaust, especially when you step into it and it drops down a gear and takes off.
John DiPietro, Automotive Editor
dderosa says:
03:53 PM, 06/16/06
"coffee can exhaust" -- that's funny
rsholland says:
04:39 PM, 06/16/06
It's ironic that you posted that image of the rear corner of the bumper.
Now imagine that same section of the bumper with a "step" scooped out of it, like what you find on the Xterra to help access the roof rack...
And speaking of FJ bumpers...
Why aren't they made of steel like those found on the Hummer H2/H3? And with 4 big honking "D" tow hooks (2 front, 2 rear) also like the Hummer?
briancam says:
05:19 PM, 06/16/06
I would never get that exhaust if I were buying one of these cool looking Toyota trucks. It's way too loud and I think it's irritating on long drives.
The Xterra's step bumpers are cool - the FJ should have them too.
johnnyturbo says:
12:00 PM, 06/17/06
Well, it's a $550 option, so you do have a choice. I feel this system's sound manages to have some character without being too much. And at a steady cruise, it drops into the background enought that I really didn't notice it.
As far as the built-in step, yep, this tallish truck could use that feature -- that roof rack is a far reach for most folks.