Exterior

The FJ Cruiser features a short wheelbase, stocky frame, and grille/headlight arrangement much like the original FJ40. Other throwback design cues include a nearly vertical windshield with three windshield wipers for maximum surface area coverage. The FJ Cruiser also featured the name "Toyota" spelled out across the grille instead of the corporate emblem which has been in use since 1990, another reference to the FJ40 and other older Toyota trucks. The FJ's body features rear opening access doors that give a unique look to the SUV. Special high strength steel was used to give the vehicle side impact protection without the need for a door pillar.^[20]

Interior

The interior of the FJ features many design elements focused on enhancing off-road practicality. All interior surfaces are covered with washable rubber materials to aid in fast cleanup after heavy outdoor use. The FJ also incorporates oversized controls to aid drivers with gloved hands. The 3-gauge cluster (with compass, temperature, and inclinometer) as well as the 110-volt rear outlet were carried over from the FJ Cruiser concept vehicle as options on the final production model.^[21]