When approaching the Toyota Hilux in the Brazilian context, one envisions a resistant, efficient, long-lasting and, without a doubt, high-cost car, reaching prices above R$ 300 thousand. However, it is intriguing to note that, in Thailand, the Hilux is offered in different versions, including a remarkably economical and innovative one called Hilux Champ, which has an estimated starting price of approximately R$ 50 thousand.
Compact and Multifunctional
Launched in 2023, the Toyota Hilux Champ stands out as a leader among smaller and easily accessible pickup trucks in Thailand. With a compact design, with both a height and width of 178 cm, this pickup was carefully designed to be powerful and at the same time light, aiming to meet a wide spectrum of professional demands.
The Hilux Champ is presented by Toyota with differences in terms of powertrain. The base model comes with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, there is also an upgraded 2.7-litre option, as well as a larger capacity 2.4-litre turbo diesel model. The 2.0-liter engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission, paired with a six-speed automatic option on the 2.7-liter model. The diesel variant offers both gearbox selections.
Aesthetics and Modifications
Although the only traction offering is the rear, which limits its off-road performance in more arduous conditions, the Hilux Champ impresses in terms of customization and maneuverability.
This vehicle is supplied in two primary configurations: one with a bucket prepared for transporting loads and another that only features the cabin with visible chassis, enabling customizations according to the owner's needs. Furthermore, the option of a short or long wheelbase is offered, expanding the options for adapting the vehicle.
There are around 100 accessory suppliers available in Thailand, targeting Hilux Champ consumers to make the desired modifications. The transformation capabilities are vast, allowing everything from being converted into a sophisticated trailer, to a sports pickup, to becoming a fairground stall. Such flexibility contributes to the vehicle's attractive price, making it possible to create the ideal vehicle at a considerably low cost, even after customizations.
Strength and Performance
The Hilux Champ delivers solid performance with its 2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine, generating 250 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, delivering a powerful drive. Although it does not directly compete with the power values of models such as the Ford Maverick or RAM Rampage in quantity, it stands out for its ability to load, supporting up to 1,000 kg.
The Hilux Champ's cabin is simplistic, focused on the fundamentals, but maintains Toyota's renowned quality and reliability. This feature gives the pickup notable competence compared to alternatives on the United States market.
Opportunities in the National Market
Toyota has not yet confirmed its intention to introduce this pickup in Brazil. However, taking into account the versatility and accessibility of the Hilux Champ, it would have great acceptance among Brazilian consumers, representing an ideal alternative for small businesses, if Thailand's competitive price could be maintained.
summary
The Hilux Champ, with its concise design and varied engine options, combined with the starting price of R$ 50 thousand in Thailand, stands out as a valuable proposition for a compact, highly versatile pickup truck. Its vast customization, powertrain and load capacity highlight it as an economically viable option, especially for small businesses and utility vehicle enthusiasts. Not yet offered in Brazil, the Hilux Champ illustrates a model of innovation and efficiency in the global pickup truck scenario, having significant potential for penetration into Brazilian territory.
When we think of the Toyota Hilux in Brazil, we imagine a robust, efficient, durable and, of course, expensive vehicle, costing over R$ 300 thousand. However, in Thailand, the Hilux has several versions, including an extremely affordable and innovative one, known as the Hilux Champ, which has a starting price of around R$ 50 thousand reais.
A Compact and Versatile Model
Revealed in 2023, the Toyota Hilux Champ is the king of small and affordable pickup trucks in Thailand. With compact dimensions, measuring just 178 cm high and 178 cm wide, this pickup was designed to be powerful and light, capable of meeting a variety of work needs.
Toyota offers the Hilux Champ with several engine options. The base model comes with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, while there is also a more powerful 2.7-litre version. For those who need a more robust vehicle, there is a 2.4-liter turbo diesel option. The 2.0-liter version is equipped with a five-speed manual gearbox, while the 2.7-liter version has a six-speed automatic unit. The diesel variant offers both transmission options.
Design and Customization
Although the Hilux Champ is only available with rear-wheel drive, which limits its capabilities on difficult off-road trails, it stands out in terms of customization and versatility.
The pickup comes in two basic forms: one with a bed ready to transport goods and another that is just a cab with the chassis exposed, allowing customers to modify it to suit their preferences. In addition, there are short and long wheelbase options, adding even more customization possibilities to the vehicle.
Toyota Thailand directs Hilux Champ buyers to around 100 accessory companies across the country. Owners can make the necessary modifications for specific uses. The possibilities are almost endless: the pickup can be transformed into a super-stylish RV, a sports pickup or even a market stall. Furthermore, this feature makes the Hilux Champ such an affordable starting price, allowing customers to build the pickup truck of their dreams at a reasonable cost, even after customization.
Power and Capacity
In terms of performance, the Hilux Champ leaves nothing to be desired. With a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine that produces 250 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, the truck offers good power. While it doesn't rival the power numbers of models like the Ford Maverick or RAM Rampage, the Hilux Champ really shines. Its strong point is its load capacity, being able to support up to 1,000 kg.
The interior of the Hilux Champ is basic, focused only on the essentials, but maintains Toyota's signature bulletproof reliability. This results in a pickup that competes impressively with the options available on the North American market.
Potential in the Brazilian Market
To date, Toyota has not announced plans to sell the pickup in Brazil. However, this pickup's versatility and affordable price could make it extremely popular among Brazilian consumers. It would be an ideal option for small businesses of various types, offering exceptional value if Thai prices could be closely replicated.
Conclusion
The Toyota Hilux Champ is a compact and versatile pickup truck, with a starting price of R$ 50 thousand reais in Thailand. With several engine options, a highly customizable design and an impressive load capacity, it stands out as an affordable solution for small businesses and commercial vehicle enthusiasts. Although not yet available in Brazil, the Hilux Champ represents an interesting example of innovation and efficiency in the pickup truck market, with the potential to win over many consumers if it reaches Brazilian lands.
Hillux champ…
Great option for Brazil.
Simple and useful car for small producers and traders, rural and urban!
Let it arrive in Brazil.