In addition to the GR86 Rally Legacy Concept, SEMA has proven to be Toyota’s playground for showing off what its vehicles can do, including bringing their retro vibes into the modern age. And this time, Toyota’s taking us for a sandy stroll down memory lane with the 4Runner TRD Surf Concept.
Paying tribute to the beach-loving So-Cal crowd of the ‘80s, this concept is more than ready to hit the coast with a removable roof and classic two-door look—a love letter to the 4Runner’s beach-bound beginnings.
Starting with a 2025 4Runner TRD Limited, Toyota packed in a 2.4-liter iForce turbocharged engine, pumping out 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. Power flows through an eight-speed automatic transmission with a full-time four-wheel-drive system and an electronically controlled transfer case. Oh, and they added a custom exhaust, because what’s a beach cruiser without a little rumble?
To get that open-air freedom, the 4Runner TRD Surf Concept took a bold leap. Toyota’s Motorsports Garage chopped it down to two doors, widened it by two inches on each side, and crafted a removable top so smooth, you’d think it was factory-fresh. Using 3D printing tech and a touch of old-school craftsmanship, the top snaps right off for those sunny California days.
On the terrain side, they gave it a long-travel suspension system complete with billet aluminum A-arms, steering upgrades, and 37-inch tires on custom 17-inch wheels for that rugged yet laid-back look. Inside, the water-resistant floors and flip-forward passenger seat ensure both beach sand and surfboards find their place with ease.
Toyota’s ode to surf culture will be showing off at SEMA, proving that you can bring the ‘80s back with just the right blend of retro vibes and turbo torque. Keep going for a few more looks.
Images: Toyota [US].
