Just like here in the Philippines, or arguably even more so, in Australia, car companies are fond of providing customers beefed-up versions of top-selling models. And lately, Toyota Australia is on the verge of releasing two of its beefed-up top-of-the-line models, the Toyota Hilux Rugged X and the Toyota Hilux Rouge, otherwise known as the Rocco in Thailand.
So what’s great about these Toyota Hilux variants? Well, by just looking at them some of you Hilux fans out there might be ready to call these the inspiration for your next dream pickup build.
The Toyota Hilux Rugged X
As the name implies, the Hilux Rugged X is designed to withstand the rigors of the Australian outback. It’s equipped with a hefty looking winch-compatible steel bumper, rock sliders, black alloy wheels, a sleek and subtle LED light bar, a snorkel, off-road recovery hooks for its front and rear.
Bushes, rocks, and all sorts of road obstacles are no issues when it comes to the Hilux Rugged X
Just like the normal Aus-spec 2.8-liter 4x4 Hilux variants, the Rugged X can make 201 horsepower and 500 Nm. With that kind of power, it’s able to tow up to 3,500 kg.
The Hilux Rugged X is intended to compete with other 4x4 top-of-the-line pick-up truck models like the Nissan Navara N-Trek Warrior, and the Ford Ranger Raptor. Do note that we here in the Philippines have the Ford Ranger Raptor, as well as our own equivalent of the N-Trek Warrior with similar horsepower and torque outputs, the Navara 4x4 VL N-Warrior.
The Toyota Hilux Rouge
If you’re an urbanite who wants a tough-looking truck, then there’s also the Toyota Hilux Rouge. It looks drastically different from the regular Hilux due to its Tundra-inspired grille, and a set of larger fender flares. It also has a 4x4 variant, a locking differential, and a lot of utility options, although it only makes as much as the 2.8-liter Hilux we have here in the Philippines.
While geared towards urban utility, the Rouge can also do a bit of light to medium offroading
We don’t have them but you can build them
While we’re wishing that Toyota Philippines bring in these or at least something similar, you can actually build your Hilux to make it look like the Rugged X and the Rouge. The Toyota Hilux is one of the most popular pick-up trucks in the Philippines, as such, there’s a wealth of aftermarket parts available so it’s quite a possibility. That is if you have the extra dough, time, and a lot of patience.
For the interiors of these Hilux variants, not much has changed with their interiors
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