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Toyota was on a mission to celebrate active lifestyles in every way, shape, and form at SEMA 2024. The Toyota 4Runner TRD Surf Concept is one of the more unique designs, blending the styling of the original model with the aesthetic of the modern SUV. This distinctive concept was a throwback to the 1980s and Southern California’s surfing legacy.
Related: Is Toyota’s ROX Concept the boldest Land Cruiser yet?
The 4Runner TRD Surf Concept celebrates its coastal origins
Before designing the concept even began, the Toyota Motorsports Garage team went to work by taking a 4Runner on a practice run. From there, the concept was painstakingly designed with no bolt left unturned. The end result is a true work of art, both visually and from an engineering perspective.
Originally a 4Runner TRD Limited powered by a 278-horsepower turbocharged engine, the Surf Concept came to life through meticulous attention to detail. The removable top was created with traditional fabrication methods blended with CAD and modern 3D printing technology. As a result, the cutlines mirror both sides of the body and the top is easily removed by a single person.
Toyota 4Runner TRD Surf Concept
“What makes this build so stellar has less to do with the changes themselves and more to do with the amazing way that they all work together—the result is truly greater than the sum of the parts," said Marty Schwerter, lead builder and Director of Operations at Toyota's Motorsports Technical Center.
The 4Runner TRD Surf Concept is ready for the beach
As proof the 4Runner TRD Surf Concept is ready for a day at the beach, the stylish model includes a weatherproofed interior with waterproof flooring. The front passenger seat flips forward, making the rear seating area easily accessible. A custom surfboard ‘Travel Quiver” complements the roof rack in terms of utility.
Sand might cause some vehicles trouble, especially back in the 1980s, but that’s a nonissue for the 4Runner TRD Surf Concept. A long-travel suspension with billet aluminum front upper and lower A-arms ensures it can traverse beaches with no problem. Additional equipment upgrades, including the steering, front axles, and 37-inch tires add to the 4Runner concept’s athletic aesthetic and functionality.
Toyota’s on a roll with throwback concepts
Toyota wasn’t holding back when it came to this year’s SEMA showcase. The Japanese automaker rolled in with no less than eight ambitious concept vehicles. In addition to the 4Runner TRD Surf Concept, Toyota also brought the Land Cruiser ROX Concept that aimed to revive the heritage of the original off-road icon.
Racing models weren’t in short supply. The Toyota GR86 Rally Legacy Concept served as a nod to Toyota’s rally heritage with a design inspired by racing video games. The RAV-X Concept focuses more on off-road racing, while the Suprabird Tribute paid homage to NASCAR legend Richard Petty’s 1969 Superbird.
The Tacoma and Tundra got some time in the spotlight as well. The Ultimate Tailgate Tundra Concept focused on bringing audio-visual capability to the parking lot. Inspired by Toyota’s NFL partnership, the Tundra features five 55-inch TV screens and a 185 sq ft. canopy.
The #84 Tacoma TRD ProRunner Race Concept pays tribute to the Tacoma’s legacy of Baja dominance. A collaboration between TRD and Toyota driver Jimmie Johnson, the concept is based on a Tacoma SR5 and comes packed with desert-racing off-road features and a “mud bath” exterior.
Final thoughts
A slick design in and of itself, the Toyota 4Runner TRD Surf Concept is a throwback to the surfing culture of the 1980s. While it's obvious this model wouldn’t be practical in most of the United States, it’s still a fantastic showcase of how blending traditional methods and new technology can create some unique designs. Anyhow, surf’s up!
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