Developed for rising markets, the Toyota Hilux Champ is right here to show a brand new pickup would not have to price as a lot as a luxurious sedan. It was previewed by the Rangga idea unveiled in August 2023, and it prices lower than the typical late-model used automobile 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 preserve manufacturing prices in test), 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 growth course of by offering suggestions about which options native patrons want and which of them they’ll 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 will even embody a short-wheelbase mannequin and a cab-chassis. Patrons 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 autos. Rear-wheel-drive and a five-speed guide transmission come normal, and a six-speed computerized gearbox is obtainable at an additional price.
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 in the end 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 hearth truck, and cellular espresso store, amongst different variants. Homeowners who desire a leisure-oriented truck will be capable 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 embody 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 out there in america. Do not name the Ford vendor to cancel your order but, nevertheless: nothing suggests the Hilux Champ will likely be offered in america.
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