Toyota Venza Concept at 2009 SEMA Auto Show Created for Extreme Athletes

LAS VEGAS — The Toyota Venza, a staple of school carpools, morphed into a dream ride for extreme athletes at the 2009 SEMA Auto Show. The Toyota/Billabong Ultimate Venza is laden with gear for outdoor lovers, including a heated shower system, a custom roof rack and a hidden cargo rack that extends from the rear bumper for skis and snowboards.

While the curious can only ogle the custom Venza via photographs at this point, Toyota says the concept will be the official Billabong Team vehicle for use by surf-, snow-, skate- and wakeboard athletes. It will be displayed at upcoming Billabong events in the U.S. following the aftermarket show.

Street Image built the concept, adding a custom body kit with "Billabong" emblazoned on the side. Large Enkei wheels with Nitto tires and a TRD big brake kit round out the package. The cabin gets seats upholstered with wetsuit materials, while the headliner features a collage showing Billabong athletes in action.

Toyota says a Verizon Wireless access point router was installed, which lets athletes get up-to-date surf or snow reports. Other details include headrest-mounted LCD monitors, an audio system with 18 speakers and an iPod interface.

Inside Line says: The Venza clearly isn't just for suburban moms anymore now that it has had an extreme makeover for SEMA. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent