Toyota Hilux Champ sits on the IMV 0 platform as an affordable pick-up

Kenneth John Updated: November 27, 2023, 05:49 PM IST

Toyota has officially unveiled the all-new Hilux Champ in Thailand, over a year after revealing the IMV-0 prototype. The new IMV series model dubbed 'IMV 0' is significant not just for Thailand, but also for the whole ASEAN area. The Hilux Champ is available in both long and short-wheelbase configurations, with three engine options. Toyota Motor Thailand displayed the new pickup truck in a variety of configurations to highlight the flexible base of the Hilux Champ.

The Hilux Champ's short wheelbase variant is 4,970mm long, 1,785mm wide, and 1,735mm high. It has a wheelbase of 2,750mm with truck bed measurements of 2,312mm x 1,711mm x 327mm. The extended wheelbase variant, on the other hand, extends the vehicle to 5,300mm in length and has a wheelbase of 3085 mm. The truck bed is 362 mm longer than the SWB Hilux Champ, indicating the additional length.

The Hilux Champ keeps many of the design characteristics of the IMV-0 Concept on the exterior. The manufacturing version retained the boxy body and front fascia of the Land Cruiser 70 and FJ Cruiser.

Eleven customized versions were featured at the Thailand debut. Toyota provides eight categories, with an emphasis on providing a wide range of corporate types and applications. There are short and long-wheelbase models, three engine types 2.0-litre petrol engine, 2.7-litre petrol engine, and 2.4-litre diesel engine, and an unequipped variant with a flat deck.

Bolt holes are included throughout the deck so that unique accessories may be readily added using bolts and nuts. Furthermore, for clients who seek modification, TMT can supply information on over 100 accessory suppliers, allowing each customer to experience bespoke personalization.

The base 2.0-litre petrol engine produces 139PS and 183Nm torque and is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. Then there is the 2.7-litre petrol engine that is good enough for 166PS and 245Nm torque and is paired with a six-speed torque converter automatic transmission. Finally, there is the 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine which is lower on power at just 150PS, but its 343 Nm torque (with a 5-speed manual) is almost 100Nm more than the petrol motor. That number jumps up to 400Nm of torque when paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Inside, the Hilux Champ keeps things simple with flat panels and hard plastic trim. Recognizing the challenges of business usage, it compensates with various storage compartments and a washable floor.

The Hilux Champ is available in a cab and chassis type, a single-cab pickup with a long bed, and speciality bodywork like delivery trucks, medical vehicles, small business trucks, camping trucks, and even RVs. Short- and long-wheelbase variants meet a variety of cargo needs.