Toyota recently introduced the 4Runner TRD Surf concept, which features a two-door, open-top design inspired by the iconic 1980s 4Runner. Expanding on this nostalgic theme, the company is also showcasing the Land Cruiser ROX concept, set to debut at the SEMA show in Las Vegas next week. This new concept incorporates a convertible top that pays homage to classic Land Cruisers.
The name ROX stands for “Recreation Open eXperience,” a vision developed by Toyota’s Calty Design Research team in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Initially based on the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser, the team reimagined a particular portion of the vehicle to create the strikingly unique ROX concept.
The design features a distinctly redefined silhouette. The Land Cruiser ROX not only boasts a sliding soft-top roof but also an open rear section that resembles a pickup truck bed.
The upper half of the vehicle has been extensively revamped, featuring A-pillars designed to evoke the look of a trestle bridge and a sloping rear pillar equipped with Molle panels for convenient gear storage.
Additionally, the gray roof bars come with a custom triple-bar roof rack, and seven forward-facing auxiliary lights are mounted on the roof to illuminate the path ahead. A functional midgate allows access from the cabin to the rear bed, facilitating the transport of longer items and providing seating options in the tailgate area.
The body is coated in a vibrant Spring Green, reminiscent of vintage Land Cruiser models. A custom jerrycan is located near the rear spare tire carrier, and the vehicle features tailored steel bumpers at both the front and rear, complete with red tow hooks, rugged brush guards, and a winch. The doors showcase a “skeleton” style, featuring an open lower section and supported by sturdy rock rails.
Serious enhancements have also been made to the suspension system, providing a four-inch lift and increasing the track width by eight inches using forged aluminum control arms. This wider stance allows for larger off-road tires mounted on 18-inch one-piece machined billet wheels, which are complemented by broad trapezoidal fender flares.
Inside, the cabin has been upgraded with custom 3-D-printed components like the front and rear doorsills, improving the interior’s weather resistance. The luxurious interior features rich Heritage Orange leather, while the door panels are equipped with built-in safety kits and practical storage webbing for sunglasses and other items.
While it seems that Toyota does not plan to bring the ROX concept to production, it is exciting to see the brand exploring new body styles for the 2024 Land Cruiser. Many enthusiasts hope for the eventual release of innovative production-ready special editions of the Land Cruiser in the future.