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FJ Cruiser Manual or Auto?

17 messages,  Last post on Jan 19, 2010 at 6:12 AM

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What is this discussion about? Toyota FJ Cruiser, SUV

Messages Page 1 of 2

#1 of 17 Manual or Auto? by aperson

Dec 18, 2007 (10:44 pm)

We are ready to buy an FJ and can't decide whether to get a manual or auto transmission. Any thoughts on pros and cons of either (other than gas mileage)?

#2 of 17 Re: Manual or Auto? [aperson] by tidester

Dec 19, 2007 (12:13 pm)

Replying to: aperson (Dec 18, 2007 10:44 pm)
Which type are you accustomed to driving?
 
tidester, host
SUVs and Smart Shopper

#3 of 17 Re: Manual or Auto? [tidester] by aperson

Dec 20, 2007 (2:46 am)

Replying to: tidester (Dec 19, 2007 12:13 pm)
I prefer driving an automatic and my husband prefers a manual. My husband is going to be the primary driver, so I guess we will go with the manual. He was just trying to figure out if there was any downside to getting the manual other than the gas mileage isn't as good. When he drove an FJ last year, there weren't any manuals available at the lot so he has only driven an automatic FJ.

#4 of 17 Re: Manual or Auto? [aperson] by tidester

Dec 20, 2007 (4:57 am)

Replying to: aperson (Dec 20, 2007 2:46 am)
I think that in the end it comes down to personal preference but here are some factors you might consider:
 
(a) Automatic will be less tiring if you do a lot of stop and go city driving.
 
(b) Automatic transmissions typically cost $600 to $1,000+ more than manual transmissions.
 
(c) You do get better gas mileage with a manual transmission.
 
(d) Automatic transmissions are much more complicated than manual transmissions so reliability may be a factor, i.e. more can go wrong with them.
 
(e) Many feel that a manual transmission provides better "road feedback" giving them better control over the vehicle.
 
Did I adequately muddy the waters for you?
 
tidester, host
SUVs and Smart Shopper

#5 of 17 re: Manual or Auto by brownznh

Feb 21, 2008 (10:02 am)

The manual does NOT get better gas mileage- check the stickers! I have a manual and I love to drive it, but the gas is killing me. It is at least 5 mpg less than auto because it is FULL TIME 4x4. On the other hand, unless you are off road, you never have to shift for bad weather/road conditions.

#6 of 17 re: Manual or Auto [brownznh] by tidester

Feb 21, 2008 (12:50 pm)

Replying to: brownznh (Feb 21, 2008 10:02 am)
It is at least 5 mpg less than auto because it is FULL TIME 4x4.
 
Perhaps I should have said "all other things being equal." Certainly, AWD vs. FWD or RWD will make a difference.
 
tidester, host
SUVs and Smart Shopper

#7 of 17 re: Manual or Auto [tidester] by kawagumby

Mar 03, 2008 (2:35 pm)

Replying to: tidester (Feb 21, 2008 12:50 pm)
Although a manual transmission is simpler, it comes with a part that often needs attention - the clutch. How long a clutch will last, without the need to be replaced or otherwise serviced, often depends a lot upon the driver. But for most long-term car use, a clutch will need to be replaced at least once during ownership. With today's labor charges, that can be a fairly expensive item. If the flywheel needs to be resurfaced the cost can skyrocket.

#9 of 17 FJ 6-Speed Manual Owners by meeh

Apr 07, 2008 (9:59 pm)

Hello I am thinking about purchasing an FJ and was wondering whether to go with the FJ Manual or Auto. I have never driven anything but manual on my cars and trucks. Im driving a 4x4 5spd 4Runner right now. I have test driven an auto FJ and it was nice. good acceleration and handling, but there isnt an MT available to test drive. I was wondering how you guys liked it so far? How does the clutch feel? The Gears? How about the MPG? you guys getting the 15/18?Just any information on the MT FJ and the way you feel about them would be nice. Thanks.

#10 of 17 Go for the manual. by vcheng

Apr 08, 2008 (5:12 am)

I am getting about 16 mpg all city, and the clutch/shift lever/engine combo is a pleasure to drive. The sixth gear is pretty tall and usable over 45 mph, so it doesn't get much use in the city.

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