While the SEMA Show usually brings out blingy, extensively modified muscle cars just to show what the aftermarket can do, one of the vehicles set to feature at Toyota’s stand is undeniably our cup of tea.
Turning its attention to the iconic FJ60 LandCruiser, the company’s USA arm has created what it dubs the ‘Turbo Trail Cruiser’, a performance-inspired build that blends the model’s timeless appeal with modern performance.
Taking the twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine from the current Toyota Tundra, which has been paired to the car’s original five-speed manual ‘box, it serves up a mammoth 286kW (389hp) and 649Nm, almost double the original straight-six.
However, raw power wasn’t the focus for Toyota with this build. The modern engine more importantly brings quieter operation, improved refinement, reduced emissions, improved fuel efficiency, and the steep yet linear torque curve of twin turbochargers – all of which makes the Land Cruiser feel more modern, streetable, and capable.
Additionally, unlike some restomods, the philosophy behind this build was to keep its appearance as factory-original possible. As a result, every component was developed to fit without cutting into the firewall, relocating mount points, or altering the 1985 FJ60’s structural integrity.
To do this, the Toyota Motorsports Garage team engineered new motor mounts and machined an adapter plate to mate the Tundra’s V6 engine to the bell housing of the FJ60’s factory gearbox. The engine oil pan was also re-designed to work with the LandCruiser’s chassis, while a bespoke exhaust system provides an aggressive exhaust note.
A new heat exchanger was fitted to original mounting points to provide added cooling capacity for the engine, while a custom wiring harness has been made to work with the engine management system.
Beyond the new powertrain, this FJ60 has also been treated to a modest 1.5-inch lift, 35-inch tires, front shackle reversal, and period-correct colours and graphics finished in a PPG reproduction of Toyota’s original 1986 ‘Silver 147’. Inside, there’s also a modern screen and JBL stereo system fitted to the otherwise unchanged and well-preserved cabin.
“The Turbo Trail Cruiser is about showing what happens when Toyota’s modern performance technology is integrated into one of our most iconic classics,” says Marty Schwerter, director of operations at Toyota Motorsports Garage and lead builder of the project.
“It’s a hot-rod approach with Toyota DNA – power, drivability, and reliability in a package that still feels true to the original Land Cruiser.”
“For Toyota fans, the Turbo Trail Cruiser is about more than just horsepower,” adds Mike Tripp, group vice president of Toyota Division Marketing at Toyota Motor North America.
“It’s about preserving the character of a vehicle enthusiasts love while showing how seamlessly Toyota technology can elevate the driving experience. It’s a concept build, but it demonstrates the passion we share with our customers for keeping these classics alive in new and exciting ways.”
The Turbo Trail Cruiser will be featured in the Toyota booth at the 2025 SEMA Show, which is being held at the Las Vegas Convention Centre from November 4-7, 2025.
