A 4x4 Custom Design Shop

Who We Are

Living in Costa Rica, my brother and I were constantly in search of the best waves but they weren't always easy to get to.  The roads were terrible- bumpy, muddy and often involved crossing a few rivers.  We relied on our Toyota Land Cruiser and Land Rover Defender off road vehicles to get us to the most secret surf spots.  However, when we wanted to make some customizations and upgrades on our trucks, I was unable to find a shop that could complete the projects with the quality we desired.  So, I began to work on the trucks in my free time, building and customizing them from my home garage.  While working there and finding it to be something I really enjoyed, I realized there was a business opportunity here in Costa Rica to share my passion with others.

In 2019, I took the risk and my home garage soon became The Tamarindo Body Shop- open to the public.  As the shop grew, so did my creativity and vision.  It was clear that I wasn't the only person who was passionate about custom quality 4x4s.  In just one short year, we were bursting at the seams with clients and project requests.

That's how BlackBox was born.  A place SOLEY for creation and customization in the name of 4x4s.  I truly enjoy working with each client to create a one of a kind truck for them. No detail goes unnoticed. Clients have the ability to choose their preferred model truck, develop a custom paint color, add light and sound upgrades, tires/rims and the BEST top quality accessories to create a one of a kind vehicle.

You never know where the road in life will lead you.  Blackbox was created to help get you there.  Whether you want to upgrade your accessories, buy a #blackboxcustom truck ready to go or build your dream 4x4 from scratch, Blackbox is here to make it happen.  We look forward to our next project with you!

-Jonathan Stipanov
Owner and Founder

Featured Builds

2022 Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Series SOLD

Imported from Dubai, this V8 turbo diesel is packed with power. It features an AFN rear bumper with gas can and wheel carrier plus ARB upgrades such as front bullbar, lights, side rails and roof rack.

2012 Land Rover Defender 110 SOLD

A partial restoration, the client choose Keswick green paint and complimenting tan leather upholstery. A custom made soft top was installed to make it the ultimate beach cruiser.

1981 Toyota BJ40

This highly collectible truck underwent a full frame off restoration. It was in such mint condition when it was received that we were able to preserve many of its original parts such as the headliner, windows, steering wheel and more. This truck is EXPORT ready with matching numbers and original chasis.

1980 Toyota BJ40

Full frame off 1 year restoration.  Everything either replaced new or refurbished to excellent condition, down to each nut and bolt. Brand new custom upholstery on all seats. Complete overhaul of engine, gearbox and transfers. Upgrades include installation of A/C, bluetooth touchscreen stereo, new tires and rims. 

This truck is complete and requires no additional work, export quality with matching numbers, chasis and original engine.

2012 Land Rover Defender 110 Crew Cab

Ever dreamed of owning a Defender like the one used in James Bond 2015 Spectre??

Now’s you’re chance! Features original paint, front bumper + tires + rims + snorkel. All original and only 120.000 kilometers.

2022 Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Series Special Edition

The 70th anniversary edition Land Cruiser is a limited-run vehicle.

Externally, the Toyota Land Cruiser 70th anniversary edition can be distinguished by the black heritage grille and several other blacked bits like the headlamp bezels, front bumper, wheel arch flares and 16-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, there is premium upholstery, leather-accented trim on the steering wheel and gear shifter, woodgrain-look trim on the dashboard and silver accents for the air vents.

Powering the car is a 4.5-litre V8 turbo-diesel that produces 202 BHP and 430Nm of torque. The motor is teamed to a 5-speed manual transmission.

2016 Toyota Hilux White

3.0 Engine, Full Version, Suspension, Bull Bar Protection, Side Rails

2022 Toyota Land Cruiser 76 Series

This truck is built and ready to take your family EVERYWHERE in Costa Rica! Upgrades include rims and MT tires, front bumper with side rail protection, spot lights, winch, snorkel, roof rack and tinted windows.

2023 Toyota Hilux SOLD

2016 Toyota Land Cruiser LC79 SOLD

Full custom build. Client chose a beautiful custom paint color and loaded accessories to make this one truly one of a kind here in Costa Rica.

Our Team In Action

Take a look behind the scenes at our workshop

OH HEY, FOR BEST VIEWING, YOU'LL NEED TO TURN YOUR PHONE