Toyota is world-famous for being one of the biggest car manufacturers in the world. Part of that success lies in its ability to create iconic and robust utility vehicles. Although we have not seen much of that in India apart from the Fortuner SUV, globally the brand has multiple typical and popular SUVs under its belt. One of the most famous and popular in India is Fortuner. The most famous MPV in India also comes from Toyota in the shape of Innova Crysta. The company has SUV in its DNA and it plans to expand that segment in India and assert its authority in the lifestyle pick-up truck segment as well. Admittedly, this segment is not huge in India and even in the times to comes it will continue to be a niche segment. However, the segment is growing rather healthily with products like Mahindra Thar and Isuzu V-Cross. Hence, Toyota is also planning to enter this segment in India, which it is so good at. The product in question is the Hilux pick-up truck. Here is what to expect from it.
Also read: Isuzu V-Cross launch in early 2021 – What to expect from the lifestyle pick-up truck!
Toyota Hilux Pick-up Truck
The spy shots show the single-cabin pick-up truck being tested on the roads of Delhi. There are a fair few bits that are clearly visible from the images. Firstly, it is a flat-bed utility-focused version of the Hilux, which is currently on sale in various international markets. We expect that this is used only for testing purposes and if Toyota decides to bring the Hilux to our market, it will the double-cabin version to rival the Isuzu V-Cross. The Isuzu has created a cult following among the off-roading community in India. Also, as a lifestyle off-roader, it comes with a lot more practicality and features to make you feel like you are sitting in a regular SUV with added off-roading capabilities. Hilux will also target the same customers to provide them with the same experience. The potential in this segment is huge, considering the fact that more and more people are looking for the ultimate practical and multi-purpose vehicle such as the V-Cross and Toyota is trying to capitalize on this.
Also read: Toyota launches facelifted 2021 Fortuner and top-trim Legender – All you need to know!
Toyota Hilux Pick-up Truck – Features and Engines
The Hilux that comes in the international markets comes with features like LED headlamps with LED DRLs, bold and sporty front end, Digital Infotainment Touchscreen with smartphone connectivity, Multi-purpose Steering Wheel with Controls, Digital Instrument Cluster for Driver’s Info and much more. But what is more interesting is the off-roading equipment list that Hilux might come with. It is likely to come with the same powertrain option as the Fortuner, which means a 2.8-litre diesel engine making 204hp and 500Nm mated to a 6-speed manual or an automatic gearbox. This will send power to all four wheels with the 4×4 drive system for the ultimate off-roading experience. There might also be a 2.7-litre petrol engine on offer, which makes 164hp and 245Nm with a 5-speed manual gearbox.
Also read: Mahindra Thar discontinues base AX version with side facing rear seats – Find out why!
We might be able to see the Toyota Hilux in a couple of years’ time, but when we do, it will go against the likes of Isuzu V-Cross, Mahindra Thar and Force Gurkha. Products like the Hilux will increase the popularity of this already growing lifestyle off-roading segment, which is only a good thing for our industry.
Image credit: Team BHP
