Classic FJ60 Meets Modern V6: Toyota reveals the Turbo Trail Cruiser
Toyota upgrades classic FJ60 Land Cruiser with new i-Force twin-turbo V6
Toyota has something very special for this year's SEMA Show in Las Vegas. While we have seen our fair share of restomods and retro-inspired builds for such shows, one of Toyota's ideas combines classic looks with a modern powertrain.
Say hello to the Toyota Turbo Trail Cruiser, a performance-inspired build that sees the classic FJ60 Land Cruiser with the power of Toyota's new i-Force twin-turbo V6 under the hood. Billed by the automaker as “part resto, part hot rod”, the Turbo Trail Cruiser is Toyota's way of honoring its classic vehicles while giving it a more powerful heart.
“The Turbo Trail Cruiser is about showing what happens when Toyota’s modern performance technology is integrated into one of our most iconic classics. 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,” said Marty Schwerter, Director of Operations at Toyota’s Motorsports Garage and lead builder of the project.
Powering the Turbo Trail Cruiser is a 3.4L twin-turbo V6 that generates 394 PS with 649 Nm of torque, nearly double what the FJ60's original inline-six can produce. Beyond giving it a more powerful engine, the 3.4L twin-turbo V6 also delivers fewer emissions, a more refined power delivery, a more linear torque curve, and better fuel efficiency. But how did Toyota and its team of engineers able to keep the FJ60's classic looks without modifying it too much?
The Toyota Motorsports Garage team engineered new motor mounts and even machined an adapter plate to connect the i-Force V6 to the bell housing of the FJ60’s factory 5-speed transmission. The engine's oil pan was then redesigned to work with the Land Cruiser's chassis, while a custom exhaust system was installed to deliver a more aggressive exhaust note. A new heat exchanger was also fitted to the original mounting points to provide added cooling capacity for the turbocharged V6. Last but not least is a custom wiring harness that completes the connection to the engine management system.
Aside from having a turbocharged V6, the classic FJ60 was also given a 1.5-inch lift kit, bigger 35-inch tires, a front shackle reversal, and period-correct colors & graphics that replicate Toyota's original 1986 Silver 147 color. Hop inside, and the Turbo Trail Cruiser gets a new JBL sound system that subtly enhances the vintage look & feel of the FJ60.
“For Toyota fans, the Turbo Trail Cruiser is about more than just horsepower. 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,” said Mike Tripp, group vice president, Toyota Marketing USA.
For those who are planning to visit the 2025 SEMA Show, you can check out the Turbo Trail Cruiser at Toyota's booth from November 4 to November 8.
