Developed for rising markets, the Toyota Hilux Champ is right here to show a brand new pickup would not have to value as a lot as a luxurious sedan. It was previewed by the Rangga idea unveiled in August 2023, and it prices lower than the common late-model used automotive in america.
Visually, not a lot has modified over the previous couple of months. The Champ is formed just like the field it got here in (flat surfaces maintain manufacturing prices in verify), it is exceptionally primary, and it is supplied in a large variety of configurations. Toyota stresses that engineers in Thailand performed a giant position within the improvement course of by offering suggestions about which options native patrons want and which of them they will do with out.
The truck stretches about 208 inches lengthy, 70 inches large, and 68 inches tall when ordered with a protracted wheelbase, although the vary may also embrace a short-wheelbase mannequin and a cab-chassis. Consumers will initially have three engines to select from: a 2.0-liter and a 2.7-liter that burn gasoline, and the tried-and-true 2.4-liter diesel-powered four-cylinder present in a number of of the Japanese carmaker’s world automobiles. Rear-wheel-drive and a five-speed guide transmission come commonplace, and a six-speed automated gearbox is obtainable at an additional value.
As promised, Toyota made the Champ modular sufficient to serve in all kinds of industries. The cargo field options folding sides and pre-drilled holes in order that customers can connect the tools their job requires, and over 100 aftermarket manufacturers will finally present equipment for the mannequin. Toyota confirmed a handful of concepts when it unveiled the idea: it configured it as an ambulance, an ice cream truck, a fireplace truck, and cellular espresso store, amongst different variants. House owners who desire a leisure-oriented truck will have the ability to flip it right into a camper.
Inside, there’s not a lot to the entry-level Hilux. The driving force faces a three-spoke steering wheel, an analog instrument cluster that does not embrace a tachometer, and a flat, horizontal dashboard. You will not discover a touchscreen, air con, or perhaps a radio within the base mannequin.
On sale now in Thailand, the Toyota Hilux Champ begins at 459,000 baht, which represents roughly $13,200 on the present conversion charge. That is over $10,000 lower than the Ford Maverick, which at $25,640 stands out as the most cost effective new pickup obtainable in america. Do not name the Ford vendor to cancel your order but, nonetheless: nothing suggests the Hilux Champ shall be offered in america.
Associated Video