- Toyota brought almost a dozen concepts to 2024 SEMA show
- Concepts based on various SUV, pickup truck, and sports car models
- Toyota teased introduction of Modellista parts in U.S.
Toyota pulled out all the stops for its 2024 SEMA showcase, with the automaker turning up to the Las Vegas show’s opening day on Tuesday with almost a dozen concepts catering to sports car and truck fans.
None of the concepts have been confirmed for production by the automaker. Instead, the main goal is to highlight the personalization possibilities for some of Toyota’s most popular models, particularly with parts already available via Toyota’s own channels, such as TRD in the U.S. and Gazoo Racing and Modellista in other parts of the globe.
Toyota 4Runner TRD Surf concept
Among the concepts already revealed are the open-top 4Runner TRD Surf and Land Cruiser ROX concepts, plus the Tacoma TRD ProRunner Race desert racer and GR86 Rally Legacy sports car.
Other highlights on Toyota’s stand include the Suprabird Tribute, a concept built to honor the career of NASCAR legend Richard Petty. As the name suggests, the car merges the design of Petty’s famous 1969 Superbird with the modern GR Supra. Rather than simply relying on a wrap, the concept was painted in Petty’s signature blue color and features hand-painted examples of his 43 racing number. According to Toyota, the idea was conceived by former “Top Gear USA” host Rutledge Wood, who is today a Toyota brand ambassador and close friend of Petty’s son, Kyle.
Toyota Suprabird Tribute concept
Wood also teamed up with Toyota to turn a 1994 Toyota Pickup into a drift machine. While it certainly stands out with its pink paint job, there’s also no missing the new fiberglass fenders and bed sides which give the impression that the project originally started as an off-road Baja basher. Toyota is light on what other modifications were made, but said the truck features a revamped bed, and a relocated radiator for optimal weight distribution.
For RAV-4 fans, Toyota presented the RAV-X concept, a vehicle that turns the humble compact crossover into something that looks like it was meant to compete in the Dakar Rally. The concept features the RAV-4’s available 302-hp plug-in hybrid powertrain but with a ram air intake to help boost performance. It also features long-travel suspension with bespoke components that increased the ride height by two inches and the track width by 6.3 seconds. Forged aluminum front lower control arms and forged aluminum rear upper supports were also added to ensure the vehicle can handle rough terrain at speed.
Toyota RAV-X concept
Toyota also presented the Modellista Overland Vision concept, a Land Cruiser with body enhancements designed by body kit specialist Modellista. Toyota said the concept hints at the possibility of introducing Modellista products in the U.S. via Toyota and Lexus’ Associated Accessories Products division.
A final concept worth mentioning is the Ultimate Tailgate Tundra, a concept built to highlight Toyota’s relationship with the NFL as the sport’s Official Automotive Partner. This truck features a custom staging shell with five 55-inch weatherproof outdoor screens, as well as a custom audio system based on the JBL Club Marine Series. It also packs an on-board satellite Wi-Fi system and power generator.
Toyota Ultimate Tailgate Tundra concept
Toyota also showcased at the SEMA show a forged aluminum upper control arm kit from TRD, which is designed to fit 2003-2024 4Runners and 2007-2014 FJ Cruisers. The automaker didn’t say when the kit will be available.
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