Prototype Toyota TRD Land Cruiser Spotting Testing In UAE
TRD LandCruiser spotted testing in UAE
Imthishan Giado
Is Toyota making an upgraded TRD version of its mega-popular LandCruiser SUV? We spotted this test mule while the driver was taking a break for lunch in the Golden Arches and it shows some noticeable changes from the newly-refreshed LC.
Riding at a similar height to a stock LandCruiser, this TRD version appears to consist of five-spoke split-rim TRD wheels, slightly different front and rear fascias, and plastic TRD-badged overfenders that have a curious tacked-on quality – we assume these are not final production pieces or painted.
The interior looked to be the same as the regular LC, with a TRD start button. An educated guess assumes the suspension uses stiffer TRD front coilovers and rear shocks and springs – making it a response to the Desert Edition of the Nissan Patrol, potentially.
Toyota showcased a heavily-modified LC at SEMA last month but this doesn’t appear to be anything like that concept car; if we had to guess, it’s a base 4.6-litre V8 LC with the extra TRD bits fitted locally, which is exactly how Nissan assembles the Desert Edition Patrol. Worth noting that that car uses locally-developed bits, whereas TRD components are traditionally built and designed in Japan.
Toyota already sell two TRD vehicles through local dealer Al Futtaim Motors – the TRD FJ Cruiser and the TRD 86.
Should Toyota build this TRD LandCruiser? Let us know in the comments below
Ugh, the normal one looks better than this, I am sure this one of the locally modified versions unlike the Nismo Patrol (which I am not a big fan of since its still humungus).
Hard luck Toyota. try harder next time.
Correct Saif, this is a locally modified vehicle, though we believe the suspension parts and fenders come from Japan.