Toyota Showcases Turbo Trail Cruiser, a Resto Mod 1985 Land Cruiser, at 2025 SEMA Show

• The Turbo Trail Cruiser is a 1985 Land Cruiser FJ60 that is fitted with a new 3.4L twin-turbo V6.

• The goal was to make this retrofit appear as if it could have come from the factory this way.

• Other changes include a 1.5-inch lift, 35-inch tires, and a modern JBL sound system.

Among the masses of exuberant concepts and highly-modified vehicles that will be displayed at the 2025 SEMA show next week in Las Vegas, Toyota chose to stand out with a much more “normal” looking SUV.

Indeed, the automaker will be showcasing a lightly resto-modded 1985 Land Cruiser FJ60 that gives an idea of what can be achieved by combining classic Toyota models with the brand’s modern powertrains.

While the outside of this vehicle, which Toyota calls the Turbo Trail Cruiser, remains mostly unchanged, the original inline-six-cylinder engine has been replaced by a 3.4L twin-turbocharged V6 from the current Tundra pickup.

This powertrain almost doubles the output of the factory engine thanks to its ratings of 389 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, while also being more fuel efficient, quieter, and significantly cleaner in terms of tailpipe emissions.

Thanks to the wider torque curve and the quick spool up of the turbochargers, this engine helps the old Land Cruiser be more capable and more drivable.

Interestingly, Toyota kept the 80s Land Cruiser’s original five-speed manual transmission, which required project engineers to machine a custom adapter plate that goes between the engine and the gearbox.

Since the goal was to keep the vehicle in as close to factory condition as possible despite its new heart, other modifications such as a redesigned oil pan that clears the frame, new motor mounts, an air exchanger, a custom wiring harness, and a more aggressive-sounding exhaust were also included.

The only external concessions to modernism on the Turbo Trail Cruiser are a 1.5-inch suspension lift, 35-inch tires, front shackle reversal, and aftermarket wheels. The silver paint colour is a reproduction of the Silver 147 shade that could be ordered on Toyota vehicles back in 1986.

Inside, only the screen and speakers for the JBL sound system, as well as the bright metallic accelerator pedal give the game away that this Land Cruiser is not entirely stock anymore.

Toyota says that the decision to highlight the Turbo Trail Cruiser in its booth at the 2025 SEMA show highlights the important role that gasoline-powered vehicles continue to play in its multi-energy strategy for the future, which relies on combustion, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric power.