The Birth of the AT37

Get ready to meet the AT37 – a monster car created by the professionals from Arctic Trucks, with the help of which the participants of the Top Gear Show prepared their fleet of Hilux for the filming of the Polar Special. At first sight, it appears to be a Land Cruiser with even larger tires than usual. But taking a closer look, one will discover a set of refinements that optimize to the maximum what the Land Cruiser is capable of.

Suspension and Lift: The Backbone of Performance

The basis of the AT37 is in the modified suspension system of this SUV. The standard installation has been modified for a more modern 2-way elastic setup; the forward coils are longer-travel. The rear suspension also is not left behind, it features new springs and dampers for good stability of the car during the ride. Altogether, these changes give only a 1.5-inch suspension rise but improve the off-roading capacity of the Land Cruiser highly.

Additional features are the 17-inch Arctic Trucks wheels and incorporating BFGoodrich T/A K03 37-inch tires, which work more toward enhancing the off-road appearance and character of the vehicle. These tires allow the AT37 to navigate through the most difficult terrains with a lot of ease.

The Widebody Kit: A Structural Revolution

Although suspension upgrades are revolutionary, the conversion of the Land Cruiser to the AT37 models can be said to be complete by its 10-piece widebody kit. It is not just a skin-deep change; the kit ensures that the large tires can succeed in not touching the car, which enlarges it and makes it stylish. Most important of all, the entire structure and the physique of the Land Cruiser have been redesigned.

Additionally, new mounting points are utilized to move the rear axle to a new, more back position, increasing the wheelbase and expanding the track width. This structural reformulation leads to better ground clearance and better stability, but it does not affect the comfort of the car, and the AT37 is not only about the meaning but also about the practicality of use.

Aesthetic and Functional Enhancements

It does not end with the mechanical aspects by offering improvements on the AT37. Having said that, the Icelandic company has not left the exterior unattended as well, and it has been made to look very aggressive, befitting the performance of the car. Mud flaps, rubberized side steps, and fresh interior carpets provide an indication of the truck-like character of the car but with a touch of luxury. In addition, adding a 2-inch multifunction receiver hitch goes well with the AT37 in terms of modeling where towing comes into play.

Consequently, while there were changes to the suspension, there has been an addition of a new speedometer that goes hand in hand with the powertrain in order to give an accurate reading. The AT37 looks like an ordinary van from the outside, but many badges and brands all over the body define the exclusivity of this fashionable vehicle.

Behind the Scenes: A Collaborative Effort

The creation of the new AT37 model occurred in the United Kingdom in this Autosworld known as Motorsport Valley. Those mentioned benefits were approved by Freyr Þórsson, the International R&D Manager of Arctic Trucks, especially the opportunity to influence the performance spot through receives, which resulted in increased effectiveness. It has encouraged this company to get in touch with the AT37 and create it from a simple thought.

Personal Opinion: A Masterful Transformation

Looking at the facts from the perspective of an ordinary person or a car enthusiast, there is no better example of car modification than turning the Toyota Land Cruiser into the AT37 by Arctic Trucks. Thus, the mechanical improvements, the structural modifications, and the design changes—all these three aspects ensure the vehicle pays homage to its origins and, at the same time, embraces the future of off-roading. The AT37 is not just a customized Land Cruiser; it is the fruit of one’s passion and great engineering and designing skills.

End Note: The Future of Off-Roading

The Arctic Trucks AT37 is considered to be one of the milestones bringing about an enhancement in off-road vehicles. Specifically, Arctic Trucks has raised the bar with regard to what is achievable in the new generation of Toyota Land Cruiser. The AT37 is not just a widebody kit but a completely new design that has improved the performance, appearance, and usability of the vehicle.

Due to advances in off-road capabilities and technology, enthusiasts look at the AT37 as a symbol of technological advancement in the automotive world. Regardless of the situation—be it off-road routes or the mere appreciation of this off-road behemoth—the AT37 proves to be an exciting and capable sampler of the essence of the Toyota Land Cruiser.

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Photo Gallery

Well, let’s start with a brief intro firstly. Modellista is the renowned Japanese tuner who’s into providing subtle change in the Toyota models. Their working principle is to hit the middle ground with regard to comfort, performance, as well as looks of the vehicles they are working on. Ah, I understand, it is clear that they intend to achieve sophistication, not gaudiness. This comes from a rich and profound love and affection for these automobiles, Toyota’s in particular. Yes, and quite rightly, they have been loyal to the Land Cruiser.

With regard to the Land Cruiser, it is the luxury type of car with an outstanding off-road capacity. It is a legend in the domain of SUV models and can be considered this excellent embodiment of the company’s management principle: quality, reliability, and durability. It is therefore not surprising that Modellista would be interested in ‘touching up’ such a famous and legendary car for the SEMA Show.

Watching previous Modellista modified models, I expect that the upcoming Land Cruiser will be revealed with an update in the area of performance. We can look forward to stiffer suspension parts, racy-type exhausts, and possibly even a wrenching of the engine to give the Land Cruiser even more muscle. Anyway, according to the idea and potential of Modellista, it would be providing the driver with an excellent driving feel.

For a more embellished outlook, the Land Cruiser by Modellista may come with new exterior accessories styled body kit. Maybe they would redesign the front and rear bumpers, the side skirt, and most likely a new set of wheels and wider tires. There could be some luxury add-ins inside the vehicle, for instance, new deterministic leather covering, advanced touch screen, and other superior trims the model might adopt.

As for the SEMA Show, it is a unique platform where fans of car tuning are free to express themselves and experiment with the car design. To the Toyota Land Cruiser enthusiasts like me, it would be very satisfying to see a finely built model of that car from Modellista to get a hint on how our vehicles should be customized. Who wouldn’t need to understand the potential for additional and upgraded features on that special car?

Therefore, if the Toyota Land Cruiser by Modellista will be displayed at the SEMA Show 2024, it has great potential to become the star of the exhibition. With bringing in their respective styles, I am sure it will rock whoever is going to watch it. This is going to be brilliant to witness how Modellista will bring the Land Cruiser model into existence. Therefore, let’s set the date and be ready for this great reveal, ready with me. For one, its maker, Modellista, already has its work cut out for it in what it will do with the awesome Toyota Land Cruiser.

Toyota Land Cruiser by Modellista – Photo Gallery

Toyota is turning heads once again with the release of two limited editions of the GR Yaris, paying homage to their World Rally Championship (WRC) triumphs. Designed in collaboration with rally legends Sebastien Ogier and Kalle Rovanpera, these special editions showcase unique styling features that set them apart from the crowd.

GR Yaris Ogier Edition

The Ogier Edition boasts a distinctive carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) rear spoiler, not just for aesthetics but also to enhance aerodynamics. The Toyota Gazoo Racing decals on the doors proudly announce its racing pedigree, while an exclusive Ogier Edition logo graces the tailgate. The French national colors on the radiator grille and 18-inch alloy wheels add a patriotic touch. Inside, the cabin features red, white, and blue stitching on the steering wheel, complemented by a commemorative plaque on the passenger side of the instrument panel.

GR Yaris Rovanpera Edition

With a three-tone paint finish inspired by Rovanpera’s helmet designer, this edition exudes elegance. WRC victory stickers on the front wings and Gazoo Racing logos on the doors emphasize its racing lineage. The Rovanpera Edition badge on the boot proudly signifies its exclusivity. Inside, blue and grey stitching mirrors the flag of Rovanpera’s home country, Finland, creating a harmonious blend of style and performance. A commemorative plaque adds a personal touch to the cabin.

Interior: Racing Heritage Meets Modern Comfort

The interiors of both editions seamlessly merge racing heritage with modern comfort. The Ogier Edition’s red, white, and blue stitching extends beyond the steering wheel to enhance the entire cabin. A commemorative plaque serves as a constant reminder of the racing legacy associated with this special edition. On the other hand, the Rovanpera Edition’s blue and grey stitching creates an elegant and cohesive interior, complemented by a commemorative plaque that adds a touch of exclusivity.

Mechanics: Tailored Drive Modes for Ultimate Performance

Under the hood, both special editions feature the upgraded powertrain, a 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine delivering an impressive 276bhp and 390Nm of torque. The six-speed manual gearbox ensures an engaging driving experience. However, what truly sets these editions apart are the personalized drive modes.

Ogier Edition

The Ogier Edition introduces two new control modes for its four-wheel drive system: Morizo and Seb. Calibrated to deliver consistent race times, the Morizo settings align with the preferences of Toyota’s Chairman Akio Toyoda. The Seb mode, named after Sebastien Ogier himself, optimizes torque distribution to the back axle, offering a thrilling driving experience with better control at higher speeds.

Rovanpera Edition

The Rovanpera Edition introduces a Donut Mode, providing a constant but higher torque flow to the rear wheels. Additionally, the Kalle Mode employs a constant-velocity rear differential and Torsen front and rear differentials, facilitating the iconic ‘Scandinavian flick’ for dynamic cornering. These technical changes emphasize the personalized and performance-driven nature of the Rovanpera Edition.

Final Thoughts: Limited Editions, Unlimited Excitement

As Toyota celebrates its WRC triumphs, the GR Yaris Ogier and Rovanpera Editions stand as testaments to the brand’s commitment to performance and innovation. With unique exterior designs, meticulously crafted interiors, and personalized drive modes, these limited editions encapsulate the thrill of rally racing.

While details about ordering and sales in European markets are yet to be announced, the anticipation for these strictly limited editions is already building. Toyota’s dedication to creating high-performance machines that bridge the gap between rally tracks and city streets ensures that the GR Yaris WRC special editions will not just be cars; they’ll be an embodiment of racing glory, a fusion of precision engineering and pure driving exhilaration. Stay tuned for the release date, as these exclusive editions are set to conquer both the hearts of enthusiasts and the roads they tread.

Toyota GR Yaris WRC Special Editions Media Gallery

Exterior Has a Timeless Appeal with Modern Elegance

Project St. Joan still retains the classic charm of the FJ Toyota Land Cruiser, yet represents a visual delight with the subtle enhancements carried out at the exterior. Paying homage to the classic Land Cruiser, it perfectly combines vintage aesthetics with modern elegance, thanks to the new body tweaks. These tweaks refer to reshaped bumper mounts, polished copper-finished side moldings, or anodized bronze mirrors or door handles.

Interior Is Where Nostalgia Meets Luxury

Moving inside, you are welcomed with a luxurious interior that overpasses the nostalgic feel. There is a fresh dashboard with some important modifications carried out to accommodate new features like the Vintage Air AC system. There is also the gear knob which now houses a PCB with a LED controller that illuminates switches and controls in a strategic way, thus showcasing innovation in a classic setting.

The rear has also undergone some transformation with the new seating and lighting, while the new fold-down picnic table represents the perfect addition for those seeking for leisurely drives.

The Power Heart Is a Lexus V8

Besides the new additions to the exterior and the interior, the true soul of the tuner`s Project St. Joan lies underneath, where a powerful engine is waiting to be unleashed. It is a genuine Lexus pot, called 1UZ-FE V8, promising to deliver no less than 256 horsepower, which for such an oldy but goldy is a rare thing.

We have to mention though that this is not the same NASCAR V8 engine that powers the Land Cruiser that Toyota recently revealed at the SEMA Show. We will turn our attention to that later in the article. This is an original Lexus V8 with no modifications. However, it is hooked to an upgraded transmission, which is an 80-Series Land Cruiser automatic, that ensures a smooth yet powerful ride.

Technology: Classic Heritage Enhanced

Project St. Joan beautifully combines timeless aesthetics with cutting-edge technology. Incorporating driver assistance systems guarantees safety without sacrificing the driving experience. Additionally, the inclusion of smart connectivity features, seamlessly blends the best of both worlds creating a Restomod that perfectly harmonizes tradition and innovation.

Price Tag Is Unknown

Projects of such extent are unique, and Project St. Joan has already demonstrated that is a genuine masterpiece. However, we do not know what is the price tag for such a build. It only remains to assume that the cost reflects not the materials used but the artistic touch infused into every aspect.

Additional FJ :Toyota’s Off-Road Jewelry: FJ Bruiser with NASCAR V8 Power

Another FJ Land Cruiser from Toyota has been brought to our attention recently, the one that we spoke about earlier in the article and that was recently launched at the SEMA Auto Show in Las Vegas. However, with this one, Toyota really tried to redefine off-road excellence by transforming a 1966 FJ-generation Land Cruiser pickup into an off-road trophy truck. And what a truck it is as it is armed with a NASCAR 8 engine.

Underneath the hood of the FJ Bruiser, lies a Toyota Racing Development (TRD) NASCAR spec V8 engine. This beastly powerhouse, estimated to deliver 725 horsepower replaces the 3.9 liters inline-six engine, providing the FJ Bruiser with the sheer force required for thrilling off-road expeditions. While the exact modifications for increased power are undisclosed, having a NASCAR V8 under the hood guarantees an exhilarating performance like no other.

FJ Land Cruiser Restomod Video

FJ Land Cruiser Restomod Media Gallery

NASCAR V8-Powered1966 FJ-Generation Land Cruiser Media Gallery

The real question is what drives one to modify his car in such a way? Could it be his need for attention or is it a way of showing his appreciation towards those that have created the movie? No matter what the reason, the car’s whacky look is a certainty. For those that have not seen the movie CARS, this particular Toyota Celica looks exactly like one of the secondary characters in the movie. The character named Wingo, obviously after the strange wing he possessed, was a parody aimed at the tuning scene in the automotive world.

While a vehicle such as the Toyota Celica could be easily modified in order to improve just about every aspect of it, the owner of this particular vehicle decided to try to attract attention in a whole new, ingenious way. Was it worth it? From a performance point of view, such an approach is definitely not recommended. If you look at the vehicle from the popularity angle, you will most likely agree that such an upgrade was indeed a good idea. Fans of the movie will, no doubt, be intrigued by the upgrade choices of this particular individual.

Another question one could ask himself is whether this Toyota Celica is a parody aimed at the parody present in the movie. Could the owner of this Toyota Celica be sending a far more complex message to those that see his car? Of course, the wing of this Celica is the primary target of many rumors. It is amazing how people get hyped for all sorts of strange happenings. While this particular Toyota Celica may bring in discussion many questions on behalf of those that have the opportunity to see it, in the end the look of this particular vehicle is the result of somebody who wanted to attract attention to himself, his car or the movie his car, now, seems to have been part of.

TRD is the Japanese carmaker`s hardcore division and which has recently worked its magic on two latest models from Toyota, the 2016 Roomy & Tank, both getting a standout and wide aero kit.

As we can depict from the photos below, both minivans come with standout features at the front and rear.

The 2016 TRD Roomy comes equipped with the custom-built fascia with large chrome grille, fog lights, horizontal LED daytime running lights or prominent chin spoiler. Other features also include new wheels, new side skirts and not that prominent lip on the rear bumper.

On the other hand, the 2016 Toyota Tank by TRD features some changes at the front, while the rear basically remains the same as the Roomy`s rear. We are looking here at a new split back front grille, angled daytime running lights, and custom chin spoiler. For extra cash, you can also get the TRD fuel caps, start-stop button as well as clear indications.

The 2017 Toyota Roomy and Tank by TRD have made official debut in Japan, the division offering just a limited production-run. Prices and full details on that matter will be revealed later on. Meanwhile, you can get a closer look at the media gallery released by TRD!

Carlex Design tuner is well-known for its interior customizations, offering a wide choice of packages, with high-end materials and the latest gadgetry, adding of course each owner`s personal tweaks and styling preferences.

The same happens to the owner of this gorgeous Toyota Takoma who wanted to make the pickup`s interior a real standout, and with the tuner`s available package, the model loos extremely high-end.

At the exterior, the Toyota Tacoma pickup truck comes with a lot of cool features which make it a genuine off-roader, with high-end bumpers and fenders, winch, underbody protection, updated suspension as well as the massive alloy wheels equipped with high-performance tires.

Inside however, the cabin provides the driver with a luxurious and cozy feel, thanks to the new package that the engineers are currently offering on the Tacome alone.

In case you own such a model, you should be able to feel exquisite with the new military green leather with contrast stitching, along with Alcantara accents and upholstery all around the cabin, sport bucket seats with harness, Alcantara headliner, new floor mats as well as leather steering wheel.

The regular Toyota Tacoma in the older generation comes with a 2.7-liter I-4 engine with 159 horsepower, being sent to the rear axle via a standard four-speed automatic transmission, delivering a sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 1.00 seconds, while the quarter mile is done in 17.6 seconds.

Toyota Prius is not an attractive model and a few aftermarket bits might make it a little bit more appealing, so the engineers had to deal with a very difficult task here.

As we can observe from the pictures, the model comes with revised cabin flaps on the front bumper, adding the new grille, which makes it even uglier than before. Strange enough, it also looks like the car has suffered serious genetic mutations.

At the rear, this Wald Toyota Prius Sport Line comes with the same ugly and bulk design, but this might not be the tuner`s fault. I mean, you cannot fix what others have done wrong.

However, the tuner tried to hide its ridiculous rear end by adding up a sports diffuser and tailpipes, which kind of shapes the overall design into something more appealing.

In the end, this would be a lesson learned, as some cars cannot be customized into something standout. And the Prius model, be it a regular or a Sport Line, is the perfect example of an experiment gone wrong.

The mods were carried out by the aftermarket specialists from TOM`s Design tuner who added some fine design elements that make it look much sportier.

I must admit that this would be a kind of an experiment, since such a hybrid version was not designed to receive aftermarket parts. However, the bold yet not too fancy tuning project puts the model into a hot spotlight.

The body kit comes with the new front and rear bumpers, front spoiler attachment, updated rear diffuser, beefier side skirts, as well as the standout quad exhaust system. The hybrid has been also lowered, thanks to the new lowering springs, which make it look a little bit more aggressive.

No power upgrades were carried out under the hood, the hybrid still packing the standard 121 horsepower.

The last time we saw a 2016 Toyota Prius with an aftermarket body kit was a couple of months back, the model being highlighted by another famous tuner, Wald International.

The aftermarket specialists from Wald International have given their best in proving this all-new Prius model with a new and fresh look. And the upgrade package is worth mentioning in the books.

Thanks to it, the 2016 Toyota Prius is now looking more aggressive, as it has received a new front bumper and apron, along with fresh side skirts, all complemented by the large alloy wheels, which are finished in silver.

As a reminder, the 2016 Toyota Prius was officially unveiled at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, the model tweaking a wider cabin and improved features in terms of technology, like the new infotainment system and so on.

Other features that the 2016 Toyota Prius is coming with refer to the improved suspension, along with some safety features, such as dynamic radar cruise control, road sign assist, pre-collision system, or the automatic high-beam. Prices will be revealed at a later date, after its official release in dealerships throughout Japan.