Toyota introduced a nostalgic tribute to Southern California’s surf culture with the 4Runner TRD Surf Concept at the 2024 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. This innovative concept vehicle merges retro charm with modern performance, designed to channel the spirit of Toyota’s first-generation 4Runner, a true icon among surf culture enthusiasts in the 1980s. Toyota’s Motorsports Technical Center, led by Marty Schwerter, transformed the 2025 4Runner TRD Limited into the Surf Concept, evoking the joy of cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway on the way to the beach.
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A Concept Rooted in the Past
Schwerter’s vision was clear: combine the nostalgia of So-Cal’s beach life with today’s cutting-edge automotive technology. He recalls, “The 2025 4Runner reminded me of the original, with its rugged look and powerhouse 4-cylinder engine. I knew it had the potential to be the ultimate beach cruiser.” This nostalgia called for an unmistakable hallmark of early 4Runners: a removable top. Schwerter and his team crafted this feature meticulously, not just for style but also for functionality, allowing drivers to experience open-air freedom with a single-person removable top—a true homage to the 4Runner’s roots.
Under the Hood: Power to Match the Aesthetic
Starting with a 2025 4Runner TRD Limited, Toyota outfitted the Surf Concept with a 2.4L turbocharged iForce engine, producing 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission and distributes power through a full-time four-wheel-drive system with a dual-range transfer case. The custom exhaust amplifies the Surf Concept’s sound, adding to its bold personality. This beach cruiser isn’t just a pretty face—it’s built to perform in any setting, whether you’re hitting the road or the sand dunes.
Crafting the Ideal Open-Air Cruiser
Transforming the 4Runner into an iconic 2-door, open-top model required overcoming considerable engineering challenges. Schwerter notes, “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 two inches of width to both sides were all just the tip of the iceberg.” The top was crafted through a combination of CAD, 3D printing, and traditional fabrication, ensuring a precision fit on both sides. This wasn’t a superficial modification—the team designed the top for easy removal, combining function and freedom in a nod to the original 4Runner’s design.
Built for Rugged Adventures
Beyond aesthetics, the 4Runner TRD Surf Concept stands ready for rugged off-road adventures. Equipped with a long-travel suspension system featuring billet aluminum A-arms and custom front axles, the concept can handle tough terrain with ease. The team added steering upgrades and a Toyota Tundra rear-end housing to complement its custom suspension, ensuring stability and control. To complete the look, the Surf Concept sits on hefty 37-inch tires mounted to 17×8.5-inch custom wheels, adding an extra layer of toughness to this beach-ready 4Runner.
Functional Interior and Thoughtful Accessories
Inside, the Surf Concept is as purposeful as it is stylish. Toyota weatherproofed the interior, adding soft, waterproof flooring for easy maintenance. In a smart nod to functionality, the front passenger seat flips forward to simplify access to the rear seating area. Toyota even crafted a custom surfboard “Travel Quiver” for the concept, pairing perfectly with the roof rack and emphasizing its beach cruiser credentials.
Toyota’s Collaborative Spirit
The creation of the 4Runner TRD Surf Concept was a team effort, reflecting Toyota’s collaborative approach across multiple divisions. Departments like TRD North Carolina, TMNA Production Engineering, Service Parts and Accessory Development (SPAD), and Motorsports and Engagement Marketing came together to bring Schwerter’s vision to life. Mike Tripp, Toyota’s Group Vice President of Marketing, praised this collaboration, noting, “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.”
Experience the 4Runner TRD Surf Concept at SEMA
The 4Runner TRD Surf Concept will be on display at the 2024 SEMA Show from November 5-8 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Located in Toyota’s booth (Central Hall, Booth 22200), visitors can experience this unique concept up close and see how Toyota continues to celebrate its past while pushing into the future.
In creating the 4Runner TRD Surf Concept, Toyota not only revived an era of sun-soaked beach days and thrilling off-road adventures but also highlighted its commitment to innovation, collaboration, and reverence for the brand’s legacy.
Source: Toyota USA
