Toyota’s Hilux midsize pickup is among the most successful nameplates in the world. But the automaker is also planning a ’Hilux Lite’ of sorts, in an effort to meet the demand for smaller and more affordable (if less capable) rigs.
Toyota is studying the possibility of a baby Hilux to retake the compact pickup segment
A report by Automotive News quotes Toyota North America Vice President Jack Hollis as saying that there is room below the midsize Tacoma model exclusive to the U.S. market. “The question is, how to fill it,” he said.
The Tacoma was previously Toyota’s contender in the compact pickup segment throughout its first and second generations, until it moved up to the midsize class with the introduction of the third-generation model in 2015. The Hilux was promoted to midsize status even earlier, in 2004.
The Toyota Tacoma moved up to the midsize segment for its third generation, alienating potential buyers in the U.S.
These days, the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz hold sway over the compact pickup category, selling more than 50,000 units combined in their first year to U.S. customers. It's this success that now has Toyota wanting a piece of the pie once again.
“Today, we have the market really well covered with Tacoma, but [a compact pickup] could be a possibility and something we continue to look at,” asserted Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) Executive Vice President of Sales Bob Carter.
The Hilux and Tacoma’s transition to midsize territory left potential customers with two less options in their quest for an entry-level pickup that won’t break the bank. If Toyota makes good on its plan, a car platform might be suited to the task.
The TNGA-C platform used by the Corolla Cross is a likely contender
One contender in that regard is the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA-C) platform, already used by the Corolla Cross and engineered to accommodate both all-wheel-drive and electrified powertrains, ideal for urban romps and light trails. If a more rugged option is required, another candidate would be a shortened version of the TNGA-F ladder-frame chassis used by the current Land Cruiser 300.
Carter adds that if and when Toyota gives the green light for its planned compact pickup, the model will likely debut in 2024 or 2025.
Pick up more automotive rumors and updates at Philkotse.com.
Know more about Toyota Hilux 2024
The Toyota Hilux 2024 is a midsize pickup offered in the local market as both fleet and regular units. Toyota Hilux Prices Philippines range from PHP 879,000 to PHP 2,166,000 with 13 variants, spanning from the basic cab & chassis 4x2 model to the range-topping GR Sport 4x4. It is also available in two turbodiesel engine options and four gearbox choices, accompanied by eight exterior colors. Dimensions start at 5,285mm in height, 1,800mm in width, and 1,700mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,085mm. Among the rivals to the Toyota Hilux in the market are the Mitsubishi Strada, Nissan Navara, Ford Ranger, and the Isuzu D-Max.
This popular pickup continues to evolve and slowly move upmarket after gaining luxuries. The most significant revolutionary jump of the Hilux happened in 2004 when the seventh generation of the model was introduced. It was the first 21st-century iteration of Toyota's pickup. It is also the first generation to ride on Toyota’s new Innovative Multi-purpose Vehicle architecture. It provided improved safety, better ride comfort, modern D-4D diesel engines, more interior space, and a more modern aerodynamic body.
The current 8th generation offers a more refined and stylish design than its predecessor, but the tradition of being a tough pickup continues. It received a much-awaited refresh in 2020.
₱ 879,000 - ₱ 2,166,000
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