The SEMA Concept features the revival of the Toyota Tacoma X-Runner Street Pickup.

Toyota Revives Tacoma X-Runner Name with Hot-Rod 2024 Concept

The era of the sport utility vehicle (SUV) may be coming to an end, but enthusiasts still remember some of the forgotten sports trucks of the past. Among them is the Toyota Tacoma X-Runner, a cool and unique truck from the birthplace of off-road vehicles. Toyota is now reviving the name of this iconic truck with a hot-rod 2024 Tacoma X-Runner concept, set to be showcased at the upcoming SEMA show.

Toyota has not released any official images of the concept yet, but they have given a glimpse of the build process on their YouTube channel. Unlike many concepts, this is not just a design exercise. It is a collaboration between Toyota Calty Design Center and Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Calty was responsible for designing the lowered truck, while the Technical Center figured out how to crash the raised 2024 Tacoma into the ground. However, what really makes this X-Runner concept interesting is its powertrain. It is equipped with the Tundra’s 389-horsepower 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6, making it an ultra-spicy machine.

According to Toyota, the truck was originally designed by a member of the Calty Ann Arbor team as a production-intended vehicle. However, it was shelved during the design process. Recently, it was revived and featured for a build at SEMA to demonstrate its potential. To enhance its aggressive stance, the concept incorporates TRD Pro wideners for added width and rides on 21-inch wheels with carbon fiber cylinders. The Tundra’s control arms contribute to the increased width, and the truck features an air suspension for height adjustment.

The history of the X-Runner itself is short but impressive. It was sold from 2005 to 2015 as part of the second-generation Tacoma lineup. The name “X-Runner” was derived from its X-shaped chassis reinforcement. It featured a lowered suspension with Bilstein shock absorbers, a standard six-speed manual transmission, and rear-wheel drive. This combination made it a peculiar truck that has now achieved cult classic status.

While the trend for trucks has shifted towards ruggedness and off-road capability, there is still a niche market for sporty trucks. The Ford F-150 Raptor played a significant role in this shift, but there is still love for trucks with a sporty flair. More details about the 2024 Tacoma X-Runner concept are expected to be revealed in the lead-up to the SEMA show, but one thing is certain – this X-Runner concept is set to be a sick truck that will catch the attention of truck enthusiasts and fans of the Tacoma X-Runner legacy.

In conclusion, Toyota is reviving the Tacoma X-Runner name with an exciting 2024 concept that will make its debut at the SEMA show. This hot-rod truck combines aggressive styling with powerful performance, thanks to a twin-turbo V6 borrowed from the Tundra. With its unique design elements and cult classic status, the X-Runner concept is sure to make a lasting impression on truck enthusiasts and fans of the iconic Tacoma X-Runner. Stay tuned for more updates and details about this exciting concept.