Japanese tuning shops can’t leave the humble Toyota Probox alone, and frankly, we’re glad they do. The latest to transform the workhorse wagon into a retro off-roader is Goosfam from Niigata, which has fitted it with the front end of a Land Cruiser 60 Series.
Two retro-style options
The kit is called RetroPro and is available in two versions: Urban Classic and LifeStyle Retro. Both replace the Probox’s unassuming nose with a rectangular front end featuring the iconic square headlights of the 60 Series, a simple grille, and a special bumper with orange turn indicators. A flat hood and redesigned front fenders complete the retro transformation.
More: Toyota still sells a 12,000-dollar station wagon as if it were 2002, and nobody minds
The difference between the two versions lies in the details. The Urban Classic features plenty of chrome, while the LifeStyle Retro replaces the shiny elements with black accents. The rest of the body remains unchanged, although Goosfam paints it in fresh, period-appropriate shades such as beige, brown, and light blue, borrowed from the classic Land Cruiser palette.
Wheels and additional accessories
Completing the look are new Goosfam wheels with a five-spoke design and black finish, shod in off-road tires. For buyers who want to go further, Goosfam promises to soon release a line of additional accessories for the RetroPro kit.
More: This kei car now looks like a tiny Mitsubishi Pajero from the 80s
Mechanics unchanged
Under the hood, there are no changes. There is a reliable 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine or an available self-charging hybrid powertrain. The Probox is offered with an optional 4WD system, which is undoubtedly the best choice for such a Land Cruiser-inspired makeover.
Pricing and sales start
According to the tuner’s official website, the RetroPro kit starts from ¥660,000 ($4,100) before installation and painting. Prefer a ready-made vehicle? Fully built cars start from ¥2,980,000 ($18,600) for the LifeStyle Retro and ¥3,145,000 ($20,000) for the Urban Classic. Sales start on July 1st through Sano Auto dealers in Japan.
More: This mini Land Cruiser 70 Series clone costs less than you think
The RetroPro is not the first Probox to try emulating a Land Cruiser. A rival shop called Hakobanya offers its own “70 Box” version inspired by the 70 Series, proving that round headlights can be just as charming as square ones.
Goosfam
This project by Goosfam is further testament to how Japanese tuning skillfully blends nostalgia for classic SUVs with the practicality of modern, affordable cars. The Probox, which is itself an embodiment of utility, gains a completely new emotional component, transforming into a desirable object for enthusiasts. The price of the kit, which is relatively low for this type of transformation, makes this dream quite attainable, and the availability of two different styles allows buyers to choose between classic chic and a more rugged, “adventure-ready” look. It is worth noting that this trend of retro-converting budget models is gaining momentum in Japan, and the RetroPro by Goosfam is a prime example that will undoubtedly find its fans.