Toyota Hilux Champ Makes its Debut Worldwide

Toyota has revealed the highly-anticipated all-new Hilux Champ pickup, marking its debut as the first model built on the recently introduced IMV 0 platform. As reported earlier this month, Toyota has officially named this new pickup the Hilux Champ, unveiling a cutting-edge addition to its lineup.

Unveiled in Thailand, the Hilux Champ is set to hit the market in its debut location, with plans for subsequent launches in other regions such as Indonesia, Africa, and South America in the future.

The Toyota Hilux Champ offers versatility with two wheelbase options, providing customers with choices to suit their preferences. With a diverse range, the pickup presents three engine options and two gearbox choices, ensuring a customizable driving experience. Additionally, the Hilux Champ, built on the innovative IMV 0 platform, is not only a contemporary pickup but also sets the stage for the development of a future affordable off-roader, signaling Toyota's commitment to expanding its lineup with diverse and accessible models.

Toyota Hilux Champ

Beyond the shared platform, mechanical components, and specific body panels, the Hilux Champ allows extensive customization by third-party car body-builders, ensuring buyers can tailor the vehicle to meet their specific needs and preferences.

Targeting customers seeking a budget-friendly alternative to the now larger and pricier Hilux, the Hilux Champ is designed to provide affordability without compromising utility. Initially showcased as the IMV 0 concept at the Japan Mobility Show and the Toyota Rangga concept in Indonesia, the model gained attention in the Philippines, responding to the significant demand for customizable vehicles in the region.

In its production variant, the Hilux Champ offers a trio of powertrain choices. Leading the lineup is a 2.4-liter diesel engine, producing 150hp, paired with either a 5-speed manual (350Nm torque) or a 6-speed automatic (400Nm torque). The model also presents two naturally aspirated 4-cylinder petrol engine options: a 2.0-liter unit generating 130hp and 183Nm, and a robust 2.7-liter unit delivering 166hp and 245Nm of torque. Both petrol engines offer a choice between a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic gearbox. Additionally, there are discussions about introducing a potent hybrid petrol option in select markets.

In terms of wheelbase options, the Hilux Champ SWB measures 4.9 meters in length, 1.8 meters in width, and 1.8 meters in height. With a wheelbase of 2,750mm, it mirrors the dimensions of the Toyota Innova Crysta. On the other hand, the Hilux Champ LWB stretches to 5.3 meters in length, featuring a 3,085mm wheelbase, while maintaining the same width and height as the SWB variant. Notably, both versions offer a ground clearance of 180mm.

Although there's no official confirmation regarding the Toyota Hilux Champ's arrival in India, the IMV 0 platform, tailored for developing markets, hints at a potential introduction, possibly paving the way for an economical Fortuner variant. Sources suggest that the Hilux Champ is anticipated to enter the Indian market in the future, with the SUV derivative expected to be available approximately a year after the pickup's launch in India.

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