Toyota has chopped the roof off the LandCruiser Prado to create a ute/convertible with off-roading abilities – just don’t expect to see it in your local showroom.
Built for next week’s 2024 SEMA automotive aftermarket trade show, the Calty Land Cruiser ROX was designed by Toyota’s Calty Design Studio in Michigan, with a focus on creating a homage to classic BJ40 and FJ40-generation LandCruisers.
While it’s based on the new 250 Series Prado, in the US it’s sold as the Land Cruiser, with the full-size 300 Series not on sale due to weak sales of the 200 Series and the availability of the similarly sized Sequoia.
100s of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
Though Toyota could have chopped the rear of the Prado’s roof off and installed a simple window behind the second-row seats – as with most utes – it instead fitted a sloping rear frame from the C-pillar to the tailgate.
It’s not clear if this features its own retractable roof to cover the new rear load space, however there’s no divider between the tub and the second row, providing an open-air feeling.
This theme is continued with the ROX’s glass, of which there is none bar the windscreen. A retractable soft-top roof ensures occupants and their belongings are at least slightly protected.
Additional changes compared to the factory Prado include a roof-mounted LED light bar, new steel front and rear bumpers, a sump guard, winch and a rear tyre carrier.
A set of chunky Goodyear all-terrain tyres are fitted as well, ensuring the Land Cruiser ROX continues to be capable off-road.
Unfortunately, we’ll need to wait a week to see the finished product in the flesh, with Toyota set to uncover the ROX at SEMA in Las Vegas, taking place from November 5-8.
MORE: Everything Toyota LandCruiser Prado
https://thewest.com.au/lifestyle/motoring/toyota-landcruiser-prado-ute-revealed-but-theres-a-catch-c-16599373
