Toyota has unveiled the stunning 4Runner TRD Surf Concept at the 2024 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, a vehicle that perfectly blends nostalgic charm with modern engineering. This concept car, born from the Toyota Motorsports Garage, pays tribute to the iconic surf culture of Southern California and the go-anywhere spirit of the original Toyota 4Runner. By reimagining the classic removable roof design and incorporating the latest technology of the all-new 2025 4Runner, the TRD Surf Concept captures the essence of beachside adventures and the legacy of the Toyota Surf.
The inspiration for the 4Runner TRD Surf Concept stems from the golden era of surfing in Southern California during the 1980s. The first-generation Toyota 4Runner became a common sight at beaches, a reliable companion for surfers chasing the perfect wave. Marty Schwerter, the Director of Operations at Toyota’s Motorsports Technical Center and the lead builder of this project, drew upon his personal experiences cruising the Pacific Coast Highway in a Toyota mini pickup to shape his vision. He recognized the spirit of the original 4Runner in the 2025 model and aimed to create a concept that would evoke those carefree, sun-drenched days.
“The 2025 4Runner reminded me of the original, with its rugged look and powerhouse 4cyl engine. I knew it had the potential to be the ultimate beach cruiser,” Schwerter explained. “We wanted to create something that would resonate today while paying homage to the past. The removable top was a must, just like the original, and we made sure it’s as functional as it is stylish.”
Starting with a brand-new 2025 4Runner TRD Limited, Schwerter’s team embarked on a journey to transform this capable SUV into the ultimate beach vehicle. The 4Runner TRD Surf Concept retains the impressive iForce 2.4L turbocharged engine, delivering 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The power is managed by a full-time four-wheel drive system with an electronically controlled dual-range transfer case, ensuring robust performance on and off the road. A custom exhaust system enhances the factory powertrain with a more pronounced and satisfying sound.
One of the most significant challenges was engineering a functional removable top while maintaining the structural integrity and performance of the 4Runner. The transformation also involved converting the four-door SUV into a two-door configuration, all while ensuring the windows remained functional. To enhance rear seat access in the two-door setup, the front passenger seat was designed to flip forward. Additionally, the body was widened by 2 inches on each side, contributing to the concept’s bold stance.
“Engineering a legitimate, removable top; going from a 4-door to a 2-door while maintaining functional windows; flipping the front passenger seat for improved rear seat access; and adding 2-inches of width to both sides were all just tip of the iceberg issues,” Schwerter noted. “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.”
The creation of the removable top was a meticulous process. The team conducted a practice run on a GEN5 4Runner to gain practical insights before starting work on the concept vehicle. The removable top was fabricated in-house, combining traditional techniques with advanced CAD and 3D printing technologies. This hybrid approach allowed for precise cutlines that perfectly mirrored both sides of the body, ensuring a seamless fit. Designed for easy removal by a single person, the top provides the open-air experience that is a hallmark of the classic Toyota Surf era.
Reflecting its rugged and stylish nature, the 4Runner TRD Surf Concept is equipped with a long-travel suspension system. This system features billet aluminum front upper and lower A-arms, engineered to tackle challenging terrains while delivering a comfortable ride. Steering upgrades, custom front axles, and Toyota Tundra rear-end housing further enhance the suspension’s capabilities. The concept rides on 37-inch tires mounted to custom 17×8.5-inch wheels, adding to its muscular and commanding presence.
The interior of the 4Runner TRD Surf Concept is designed to be both practical and durable for beach adventures. The weatherproofed interior features soft, waterproof flooring, and the innovative front passenger seat that flips forward provides easy access to the rear. Adding to its surf-ready functionality, the concept includes a custom surfboard “Travel Quiver” specifically designed for this vehicle, which complements the roof rack and embodies the Toyota Surf lifestyle.
The 4Runner TRD Surf Concept is a testament to the collaborative spirit within Toyota, bringing together teams from TRD North Carolina, TMNA Production Engineering, Service Parts and Accessory Development (SPAD), AAP, and Motorsports and Engagement Marketing. This cross-departmental collaboration highlights Toyota’s commitment to innovation and pushing design boundaries.
“This vehicle not only showcases Toyota’s engineering prowess; it also reflects the passion and creativity of our team members who are dedicated to pushing the boundaries. And besides, who doesn’t love a concept dedicated to surfing!?” said Mike Tripp, group vice president, Toyota Marketing.
Visitors to the 2024 SEMA Show, held from November 5-8 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, can experience the Toyota Surf Concept firsthand at the Toyota booth (Central Hall, Booth 22200). This innovative concept demonstrates Toyota’s ongoing commitment to honoring its rich heritage while embracing the future of automotive adventure, especially for enthusiasts of the Toyota Surf and the 4Runner legacy.
