Image via Modellista
It’s no secret overlanding is a growing hobby among Americans, including those who venture abroad to do it, so it makes sense why Modellista created an overlanding Toyota Land Cruiser for SEMA. As the in-house customization department for the automaker, it’s known for taking a unique approach to aesthetics and functionality, and this build is no exception.
Learn about overlanding through Honduras.
Some are calling the Modellista Overland Vision Concept a “cyberpunk” rig and we can see why they would. It certainly displays a different look that what you commonly see on overland builds, and in our opinion that’s a good thing.
It’s also a test to see if Modellista as a brand should expand into the US market. What’s interesting about that is the Land Cruiser, not the Supra, GR 86, or GR Corolla are being used to test the waters.
Our prediction is if the reception at SEMA 2024 was warm enough for the powers that be, should Modellista come to the US it would offer parts not only for the Land Cruiser but also the 4Runner, Tacoma, Tundra, Sequoia, and Lexus GX. That’s a much larger market than the above-mentioned performance cars.
Modellista showcases an armored-up Land Cruiser designed to protect against damage from tree branches, rocks, or whatever else one might encounter during a multi-day adventure. That’s accomplished while trying to stay in line with the original design feel for the vehicle.
One of the more interesting and talked-about elements of this build is the LED light strip added to the piece that attaches to the front of the hood. It not only looks cool and emphasizes the brawny width of the Land Cruiser, it provides illumination on a darkened trail.
Speaking of illumination, Modellista went with different finishes on the black armored pieces. It’s an interesting move which creates depth without the use of other colors. Although some of the mods feature the brand’s iconic green accents.
Some of the armor does more than just protect, like the carrying containers which fit over the rear cargo windows. The center of the lower front fascia can house a winch, so it has a dual function. Then there’s the squat roof rack with wide crossmembers and LED strips integrated into the sides all around, another cool touch for when civilization is far away and plenty of lighting is necessary.
While there are plenty of brands in the overlanding market, Modellista promises a different, fun aesthetic and thoughtful designs we think could benefit enthusiasts.
Images via Modellista
