Beyond concepts built off existing models on sale, you’ll find plenty of resto mods at the SEMA Show. This year, Toyota took an older Land Cruiser FJ60 and stuffed the current Tundra’s twin-turbo V6 engine under the hood. The Toyota Turbo Trail Cruiser boasts 389 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. That’s nearly double the output of the FJ60 generation’s original inline six-cylinder engine! Most importantly, the new engine is more efficient, more refined, and has fewer emissions. Additionally, it benefits from the near-instant spool-up of the twin-turbo engine and linear torque build-up, which Toyota says makes the SUV feel more modern.
Unlike other resto-mods, the Toyota Turbo Trail Cruiser keeps it as factory-original as possible. That means Toyota developed every component to fit in the FJ60 without cutting into the firewall, relocating mounting points, or altering its structural rigidity. However, Toyota Motorsports Garage engineered new motor mounts and machined an adapter plate. That allows the twin-turbo V6 to mate with the FJ60’s original five-speed transmission. It also includes a redesigned oil pan that works with the Land Cruiser’s chassis layout. For a more aggressive sound, the Turbo Trail Cruiser receives a bespoke exhaust note. Other changes include a new heat exchanger to provide additional cooling and a custom wiring harness.
In terms of other tweaks, the Turbo Trail Cruiser has a 1.5-inch lift, 35-inch tires, and a front shackle reversal. It also features graphics and period-correct colors finished in PPG reproduction of the original Silver 147 from Toyota’s 1986 exterior color palette. Inside, the Turbo Trail Cruiser has a JBL audio system and a touchscreen, giving it some modern tech. At the same time, it keeps the original cabin mostly intact.
The Turbo Trail Cruiser will be on display at the 2025 SEMA Show at Toyota’s booth.
Source: Toyota
