Ahead of next week's SEMA show, Toyota has lifted the lid on two concepts last week : hybrid of Corolla Cross Nasu Edition and Camry GT-S. Now the third one has been born.
This time, the Japanese manufacturer decided to release the Turbo Trail Cruiser, a restomod based on the 1985 Land Cruiser FJ60. First of all, it is a modernization that combines the iconic platform with modern technologies. As such, all new components have been designed to install without cutting the firewall, moving mounting points, or altering the integrity of the structure.
Photo: Toyota
The biggest change comes under the hood, with the old inline-six engine replaced by a 3.4-liter i-FORCE twin-turbocharged V6 engine that generates nearly twice the power. The Cavalry produces 389 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. However, Toyota says this transformation is not just about performance. The engine reduces greenhouse gas emissions while being more fuel efficient, quieter and more refined.
“The Turbo Trail Cruiser exemplifies the integration of modern Toyota technology into one of our most iconic models,” said Marty Schwerter, director of operations at Toyota Motorsports Garage and lead builder on the project. “This is a hot rod with Toyota DNA: power, handling and reliability, all in a package that matches the original Land Cruiser,” he continued.
Photo: Toyota
Regardless, the team at Toyota Motorsports Garage had to make some changes, including integrating new engine mounts and machining the adapter plate, to adapt the i-FORCE V6 to the clutch housing of the original FJ60 5-speed transmission. The engine oil pan has been redesigned to match the Land Cruiser chassis configuration, and the custom exhaust system produces an aggressive sound.
Photo: Toyota
A new heat exchanger has been installed at the original mounting points to increase the cooling capacity of the turbocharged engine, and a custom wiring harness provides connections to the engine management system.
In addition to the powertrain, the classic FJ had a 1.5-inch lift suspension, 35-inch tires and an inverted front arch. PPG reproduced the exterior color of a 1986 Toyota Silver 147, and the interior features a state-of-the-art JBL audio system.
The Toyota Turbo Trail Cruiser Concept will be on display at Toyota's booth at the SEMA show, which runs from November 4 to 7.
