Our Cars: Toyota FJ – Weeks 4-6
I still haven’t found what I’m looking for…decent fuel economy
By Imthishan Giado
16th Feb – 8th March – Read Report For Weeks 1-3
Now things are back to normal with the formerly-wonky clutch, I can get back to telling you about what it’s like to live with an FJ. But give me a second first while I take out a bank loan to pay for fuel.
Yes like most trucks, the FJ does like a bit of drink. But it’s also hit with the twin whammies of poor fuel economy and a pitiful range. My first tank of Dh110 yielded just 350km; clearly it was time to slow down a bit. Subsequent refills has seen range go up to 400km but it’s hard to do better than 15L/100km, even with a gentle right foot.
As best as I can make out, the only way to crack that magical 500km-a-tank is to stay below 120kph – and preferably, closer to 100kph. Thanks to the blocky styling and that upright windshield, you can practically feel the FJ battling the wind every time you take it out onto the highway (which is a lot here in Dubai). To the truck’s credit, it’s remarkably stable at high speed for something with such serious ground clearance.
But the fact is, going at speed means making a choice between getting to your destination quickly or having a full tank when you get there. Oh, and noise – there’s surprisingly little tyre noise considering the chunky Dunlop Grand Treks fitted as standard but with less insulation than its Prado cousin, wind noise above 120kph is bordering on unacceptable. Not as bad as a Wrangler mind you, those things are not highway vehicles.
Apart from constantly having to fuel it, the other troubling bit is the rear visibility. Look closely at the picture below, which is what the driver of an FJ sees when he looks over his shoulder. Can you spot the massive Prado parked directly behind it?
There is literally nothing to see behind you – a small trip of sunlight comprises the entire rear window under which can hide a small child, a motorcycle or an entire Bolivian marching band. Fact is, the FJ is one of very few cars which practically demands that you fit it with either parking sensors or a reversing camera. This isn’t negotiable – either you do it, or you will hit something or be hit by somebody. It’s just a matter of time.
Right, enough whinging about fuel economy or backing up. It’s time to take this thing to some rough stuff and see what it’s made of. Like some 5,000 year old tombs perhaps? Stay tuned for more.
