Cars
Toyota Channels Surf Culture With 4Runner TRD Surf Concept At SEMA
Toyota brought Southern California beach vibes to the 2024 SEMA Show with the unveiling of the super cool Toyota 4Runner TRD Surf Concept, a bold creation inspired by the vibrant surf culture of the 1980s. This one-of-a-kind concept combines the rugged spirit of the first-generation 4Runner with cutting-edge technology and design from the all-new 2025 model, offering a unique tribute to adventure seekers and beach enthusiasts.
Built at the Toyota Motorsports Garage, the Toyota 4Runner TRD Surf Concept was crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Its eye-catching design features retro-inspired graphics and a vibrant paint job that evokes sun-soaked days on So-Cal beaches. The concept is equipped with TRD performance upgrades and a robust off-road setup, making it more than just a nod to the past—it’s a modern-day trailblazer.
Marty Schwerter, lead builder and Director of Operations at Toyota’s Motorsports Technical Center, drew inspiration from his own experiences cruising the Pacific Coast Highway. “The 2025 4Runner reminded me of the original, with its rugged look and powerhouse 4-cylinder engine,” said Schwerter. “We wanted to create something that resonates today while paying homage to the past. The removable top was a must, just like the original, and we made sure that it’s as functional as it is stylish.”
The 4Runner TRD Surf Concept began life as an all-new 2025 4Runner TRD Limited, with its 2.4L iForce turbocharged engine delivering 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a full-time four-wheel drive system, it’s ready for any adventure. A custom exhaust adds an extra layer of excitement with its satisfying growl.
Transforming the vehicle into the ultimate beach cruiser posed unique challenges. Schwerter’s team re-engineered the body to include a removable top, switched the 4-door layout to a 2-door design, and added 2 inches of width to enhance its stance. Every change was carefully executed to ensure both functionality and style, resulting in a seamless blend of innovation and nostalgia.
Engineering the removable top, arguably the vehicle’s main standout feature, was done using modern fabrication techniques, including CAD and 3D printing, to achieve a perfect fit. Designed for easy removal by a single person, it offers the open-air freedom that defined the first-generation 4Runner.
Off-road capability is taken to the next level with a long-travel suspension system, billet aluminum A-arms, designed to handle the toughest terrain while providing a smooth ride. Steering upgrades, custom front axles, and Toyota Tundra rear-end housing complement the custom suspension. At each corner, 37-inch tires, mounted to 17x.8.5-inch custom wheels, complete the concept’s muscular appearance.
In preparation for any adventure the Toyota 4Runner TRD Surf Concept might encounter, the weatherproofed interior includes soft, waterproof flooring and a front passenger seat that flips forward to allow easy access to the rear seating area. Accessories include a custom surfboard “Travel Quiver” made specifically for this concept, which pairs perfectly with the roof rack.
The Toyota 4Runner TRD Surf Concept is a testament to Toyota’s collaborative spirit, with contributions from TRD North Carolina, TMNA Production Engineering, and other teams. “This vehicle showcases Toyota’s engineering prowess and the passion of our team members,” said Mike Tripp, group vice president, Toyota Marketing. “And really, who doesn’t love a concept dedicated to surfing?”
Toyota’s 4Runner TRD Surf Concept is more than just a showstopper—it’s a celebration of the brand’s legacy and its commitment to pushing boundaries. Whether hitting the beach or blazing trails, this concept embodies the adventurous spirit that defines the Toyota 4Runner.
While it’s only a concept, we really think Toyota is onto something here, and I know people would be lining up (especially in places like Southern California) if they were to build a surf cruiser like this. Needless to say, if you would be a buyer, send a message to Toyota and let them know. If enough people do so, maybe the 4Runner TRD Surf Concept could become a reality!
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