Toyota Reveals 80s-Inspired 4Runner TRD Surf Concept

As a lifelong Californian who grew up surfing the waves of Huntington Beach, I can’t help but feel a deep connection to Toyota’s latest masterpiece, the 4Runner TRD Surf Concept. It’s like they’ve taken my childhood dreams and turned them into reality with this retro-inspired beauty!


The 2024 SEMA Show will unveil Toyota’s newest creation, the 4Runner TRD Surf Concept. This model beautifully blends the traditional essence of the original 4Runner with contemporary styling. Designed with inspiration from the vibrant surf culture of Southern California during the 80s, the 4Runner TRD Surf Concept acknowledges Toyota’s rich history as a preferred choice for daring beach enthusiasts.

At the heart of Toyota’s Racing Workshop, the TRD Surf Concept draws inspiration from the legendary, airy, first-generation 4Runner, showcasing a vintage-inspired detachable roof and a salute to the brand’s heritage. Marty Schwerter, Operations Director at Toyota’s Motorsports Technical Center, shared his sentiment, “The 2025 4Runner evoked memories of the original, with its rugged design.” Schwerter and his team meticulously addressed various engineering hurdles to design a SUV with a convertible feel, blending style and practicality flawlessly. Features such as the fold-forward passenger seat and increased width for improved stability are testaments to their efforts.

Beneath its exterior, the 4Runner TRD Surf Concept is fueled by Toyota’s turbocharged 2.4L iForce engine, producing a mighty 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, in tandem with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup is complemented by its permanent four-wheel drive system, sturdy long-travel suspension, and 37-inch tires, enabling the TRD Surf Concept to navigate smoothly both on highways and sand dunes without breaking a sweat.

Inside, the concept boasts a waterproof interior, soft flooring, and a rooftop rack designed for surfboards, reinforcing its beach-friendly design. The 4Runner TRD Surf Concept will be exhibited at Toyota’s SEMA booth, with further production details to be revealed in future announcements.

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2024-11-01 13:26