Toyota’s 2025 4Runner TRD Surf concept, debuting at the 2024 SEMA show, is a tribute to the first-generation 4Runner, which was introduced in 1984. That original model was a rugged two-door SUV with a removable rear canopy, designed with off-road capability in mind. While the modern 4Runner has evolved into a more practical family-friendly vehicle with four doors and a fixed roof, the TRD Surf concept brings back the retro appeal of the classic model with some modern enhancements and styling cues from the original.
The most striking feature of the TRD Surf concept is its reimagined two-door design and a shortened wheelbase, which gives it a compact, muscular stance. This 4Runner concept is two inches wider than the standard model and sits on enormous 37-inch tires mounted on custom 17-inch wheels, enhancing its off-road capability and presence. The body is painted in a deep blue color accented by turquoise stripes, which are reminiscent of the ocean and surfing culture, a theme that continues throughout the vehicle’s design. These accents are visible on the hood, the Toyota grille badge, and a “turbo” script on the doors, completing the retro-inspired look.
Designed with adventure in mind, the TRD Surf concept features a removable roof that can be operated by a single person, thanks to a precision 3D-printed design. Toyota also made the interior waterproof, a practical choice for beach and off-road conditions. The front seat folds forward for easier access to the back seats, where passengers will find a large roll bar for added safety during rough rides. This roll bar is a practical addition for extreme off-road environments, reinforcing the vehicle’s rugged capabilities and paying homage to the original 4Runner’s functional design.
Inside, the TRD Surf continues its blue and turquoise color scheme with faux-wood floor mats, evoking the aesthetics of a vintage surf shack. The removable roof includes a custom roof rack designed to carry a surfboard, and an additional light bar above the windshield illuminates trails or beachside campsites. The interior combines retro styling with modern amenities, designed to appeal to outdoor enthusiasts looking for both nostalgia and functionality in a single package.
Powering the TRD Surf concept is the standard turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine from the current 4Runner lineup, producing 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Toyota also made significant upgrades to the suspension, including custom front axles, billet aluminum control arms, and the rear-end assembly from the larger Tundra model, making the TRD Surf concept a true off-road powerhouse. While this two-door design is generating excitement, Toyota has indicated it is unlikely to produce a similar model for consumers, making this concept a unique one-off vehicle at SEMA 2024.
