The Toyota Hilux Champ is a testament to the fact that cars don’t need to be expensive, fast, or technologically advanced in order to be cool. The versatile nature of the affordable truck means it’s compatible with a wide range of accessories. Some of the countless options were exhibited in official videos by Toyota Motor Thailand, sparking the imagination of future owners.
Toyota had already previewed the multi-purpose side of the model with similar builds and renders at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show last August and at the Japan Mobility Show last October. However, the models shown in Thailand are based on the production Hilux Champ, making them even more interesting. For example, the bolt holes on the rear deck of the Hilux Champ allow owners to customize it, using aftermarket parts from over 100 accessory manufacturers. But let’s check out the real-life examples.
More: 2024 Toyota Hilux Champ Pickup Debuts In Thailand As A $13,000 Workhorse
The most eye-catching is the “White Shark” version of the Hilux Champ featuring a colorful livery, sponsor’s decals, a black hood, a roof spoiler, yellow-tinted LED headlights, lowered suspension, and larger alloy wheels shod in performance tires.
Another sporty-looking but more down-to-earth version came fitted with official Toyota accessories. Those included black alloy wheels with red accents, aluminum-style skid plates and bumper add-ons, Hilux-branded cladding for the doors, fog lights, and a roof rack.
The most potent powertrain option of the Hilux Champ in Thailand is the 2.7-liter petrol with 164 hp (122 kW / 166 PS), so don’t expect redefining performance figures. Those “sporty” versions pay tribute to the local tuning culture of low-rider pickups.
More: Toyota Hilux GR Sport Transformed Into An Adventure-Ready Motorhome
Moving to the more adventure-packed derivatives, the menu has a fully-equipped motorhome and a camper.
The motorhome features a rear attachment by an aftermarket company called Carryboy. Interior shots reveal a cozy living room, an access door to the cabin, and a double overhead bed with a sky window. We can also see a TV screen, various kitchen appliances, a sink, a small bathroom, and a retractable awning on the left side. Predictably, this conversion is based on the longer variant of the Hilux Champ with a 3,085 mm (121.5 inches) long wheelbase.
The camper is more compact and comes fitted with a number of accessories by TJM. It has fewer amenities than the motorhome, as the occupants sleep on a roof-mounted tent. The large space underneath is occupied by all sorts of camping gear including food supplies, and a slide-out kitchenette. The exterior design is more adventurous, thanks to a bull bar with integrated LEDs, a new set of black alloy wheels, and a special livery with the TJM logo.
Last but not least, the widest category of modified Hilux Champs is proper LCVs for different kinds of professionals. Besides the factory-spec pickup with a drop-side bed, Toyota showed a pale-colored food truck for crepes, a mobile pet-grooming shop, a delivery van, a fridge, and a crane. The company didn’t get into specifics but it is safe to assume that most LCV owners will opt for the more fitting 2.4-liter turbodiesel engine that produces 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS) and 343 Nm (253 lb-ft) of torque.
The Toyota Hilux Champ is currently available only in single-cab two-seater forms in Thailand where all three powertrain options are combined with RWD. However, we expect a richer lineup in other markets, likely including 4WD versions that would make a great case for SUV-style and overlander builds. In any case, the Hilux Champ sounds like the upcoming champion of conversions and we will definitely write more about it in the future. Until then, you can check out the official videos below.