Spotting roofless SUVs like the Ford Bronco or Jeep Wrangler out on rugged trails is an iconic sight, but Toyota’s modern lineup, including the latest Land Cruiser and 4Runner, hasn’t offered this option for years—even though some older models did.
Next week at the 2024 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Toyota aims to bring back this open-top experience. The company will reveal two bold concepts: the 4Runner TRD Surf concept, designed as the ultimate beach cruiser, and the Land Cruiser ROX concept, aimed at adventurers, with unveilings scheduled for Thursday and Friday respectively.
ROX stands for “Recreation Open eXperience,” and Toyota envisions this model for fans of activities like off-road treks, safaris, or scenic campsite lounging. This concept showcases Toyota’s new direction for rugged SUVs that invite the elements in, catering to outdoor enthusiasts looking for an immersive experience.
Developed at Toyota’s Ann Arbor, Michigan, design center, the Land Cruiser ROX underwent a major overhaul, with more than half of its components reimagined. Toyota designers tackled the challenge of creating functional yet replicable parts, using custom stamping tools to shape panels that could withstand tough conditions.
A durable frame wraps the passenger area, but a soft top replaces the roof, with side and rear roof windows removed for a truly open cabin. In a nod to classic Land Cruiser style, the ROX is painted in Spring Green, and the lower portions of the doors are cut away to further connect riders with their surroundings.
Inside, durable, weather-resistant materials make up the interior, with custom 3D-printed components adding a rugged, personalized touch. Toyota also introduced a mid-gate, allowing access from the cabin to rear storage, where fold-out seats in the tailgate add convenience for campsite lounging.
The ROX concept rolls on 18-inch billet-machined wheels and boasts forged aluminum control arms that widen the track by eight inches. Combined with a TRD suspension lift that raises the body by four inches, this SUV is ready to tackle any off-road adventure.
