Toyota Hilux Champ pickup globally unveiled

Toyota will offer the Hilux Champ in both short-wheelbase and long-wheelbase versions.

Toyota has unveiled the all-new entry-level Hilux Champ pickup.

The new Toyota Hilux Champ is the brand's first model to be based on its new IMV 0 platform. It will go on sale in Thailand first, before being offered in other markets, including Indonesia, Africa and South America in the near future.

The Hilux Champ is said to be a more affordable alternative to the standard Hilux pickup. The new pickup truck is said to be heavily customisable and offered in as many as 10 configurations, depending on the buyer's needs.

In terms of styling, the Thailand-spec Hilux Champ comes with a lot of plastic cladding on the outside. The pickup gets a Land Cruiser-inspired front grille, halogen headlamps, flat windscreen and steel wheel rims. The interiors of the pickup are also basic with more black plastic elements. The Hilux Champ also misses out on an infotainment display and makes do with a multimedia system. Other features include a fan, cupholders, a power outlet, and a few storage areas.

Reports state all versions of the Toyota Hilux Champ in Thailand will come with a single-cab configuration and a two-seater cabin. Toyota will offer the Hilux Champ in both short-wheelbase and long-wheelbase versions. The SWB has a wheelbase of 2,750 mm, while the LWB trim has a wheelbase of 3,085 mm. Both offer a 180 mm ground clearance.

Powering the Toyota Hilux Champ are three engine options: two naturally-aspirated petrol engines and one diesel unit. The diesel is a 2.0-litre engine producing 150 BHP & 350 Nm / 400 Nm. The petrol options include a 2.0-litre engine producing 130 BHP and 183 Nm and a 2.7-litre engine delivering 166 BHP and 245 Nm. All three engines are mated to either a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic gearbox. Toyota could also introduce a petrol-hybrid powertrain option in certain markets.