Toyota Trekker: The Retro Pickup/SUV Hybrid Everyone Forgot About

The 1980s were a fascinating time for the automotive world, and among the many unique models that emerged during this era was the Toyota Trekker — one of the most intriguing and underappreciated vehicles of its time. If you've never heard of the Trekker, you're not alone. Only around 1,000 to 1,500 units were ever produced between 1981 and 1983, making it an extremely rare find today. Many of these cars have long since disappeared into scrapyards or been forgotten in garages, leaving only a few survivors from this short-lived model. A Trekker in original condition is almost mythical — like finding a needle in a haystack. And even more so, its parts are no longer manufactured by Toyota, which makes restoration a real challenge. While most people will never get the chance to see one up close, the Trekker is a car worth knowing about, thanks to its unique design and history.

A Brief Overview of the Trekker

The Toyota Trekker was designed as a versatile vehicle for outdoor enthusiasts. It came in both 4x4 and 4x2 configurations, offering off-road capability with a cozy, retro-style interior featuring a rear bench seat and a camper shell. Despite being classified as an SR5 (a term Toyota used for trucks with extra features), the Trekker was more of a compact pickup-SUV hybrid, with an RV-inspired layout inside. Winnebago even offered a conversion kit for those who wanted to customize their Trekker. The kit included bed sides, a fiberglass tub, a canopy, and a fold-out rear bench that could double as a bed — turning the Trekker into a fully functional camping vehicle.

How the Toyota Trekker Came About

The story of the Trekker begins in 1979, when the iconic Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 was discontinued. One man, Jack Safro, a Toyota dealer in Brookfield, Wisconsin, was particularly affected by the decision. Rather than simply accept the loss of his favorite vehicle, he took matters into his own hands. Safro envisioned a new kind of vehicle — one that combined the ruggedness of the Land Cruiser with the comfort of a camper. He partnered with Winnebago to develop a concept that would later become the Trekker. His idea was so compelling that it caught the attention of Toyota, and after some collaboration, production began in 1981. At the height of its popularity, the Trekker was often seen in Colorado, where it was marketed as a reliable all-weather vehicle perfect for off-roading and camping. However, by 1983, Toyota decided to shift focus toward the 4Runner, and the Trekker was quietly retired. Despite its brief production run, the Trekker has remained a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts. Its rarity, unique design, and nostalgic appeal make it a sought-after piece of automotive history. Have you ever seen a Toyota Trekker in person? If so, we'd love to hear your story or see your photos — feel free to share them on our Facebook page! Written by Jason Lancaster

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