The annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas is a mecca for automotive trends and custom builds, drawing both manufacturers and aftermarket tuners eager to showcase their latest creations. This year, Toyota is debuting the Turbo Trail Cruiser at the 2025 SEMA Show, a restomod that combines the rugged charm of the 1980s Land Cruiser FJ60 with the power and refinement of a modern engine.
Under the direction of Toyota Motorsports Garage chief Marty Schwerter, the Turbo Trail Cruiser was engineered to appear factory-original. The team designed bespoke motor mounts and an adapter plate to mate the twin-turbo V6 with the FJ60’s five-speed gearbox, all without cutting the firewall or altering the vehicle’s structure. A redesigned oil pan, custom exhaust, and upgraded cooling components ensure seamless integration, while a tailored wiring harness connects the modern engine management system to the vintage chassis.
Finished in a faithful reproduction of Toyota’s 1986 Silver 147 with period-correct graphics, the build sits slightly higher on a 1.5-inch lift and 35-inch tyres. Power comes from Toyota’s 3.4-litre twin-turbocharged V6 from the current Tundra, producing 389 hp and 649 Nm of torque, which is nearly double that of the original inline-six. The result is not just a dramatic boost in performance but also quieter operation, improved efficiency, and a smooth, progressive torque curve that makes this classic feel distinctly modern. Inside, a discreet JBL audio upgrade enhances comfort while preserving the original aesthetic, creating a Land Cruiser that feels both timeless and renewed.
