We already knew that the Toyota IMV 0 concept previews a future production model but a new report reveals more information about it. The upcoming truck could adopt the Hilux Champ nameplate and is expected to arrive in ASEAN markets by 2025.
As reported by Autocar India, the Toyota Hilux Champ will be the first production model to be based on the IMV 0. This would be a separate offering from the next generation of the Toyota Hilux, with a more basic character and equipment, allowing it to be sold at a lower price range. By expanding the Hilux lineup with a more affordable model, the automaker hopes to acquire an even larger share in the truck and LCV segments in emerging markets.
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Sightings of a camouflage prototype in Indonesia suggest that the production truck will look very similar to the concept. The prototype featured a single cab design combined with a flatbed and small-diameter steelies. Similar bare-bones versions of the IMV0 and Rangga concepts were shown in official renderings by Toyota. Those retained the boxy front end with styling references to the new Land Cruiser, albeit with a heavier dose of unpainted plastic trim and more basic halogen headlights.
The modular character of the IMV 0 allows it to be compatible with different kinds of bodystyles, covering a wide range of customer needs. The platform spawned chassis pickup, overlander, camper, ambulance, food truck, and low-rider racing truck versions, as exhibited by a number of real-life prototypes and renderings.
Hybrid And Diesel Options
Toyota didn’t go into details about the truck’s specifications, but its ladder-frame architecture is likely an evolution of the one currently used by the Hilux pickup and the Fortuner SUV. The automaker remains coy on details about the powertrain lineup, but the concept appears to have a combustion engine under the hood. Despite earlier rumors about a possible EV version, the Hilux Champ is expected to be exclusively offered in self-charging hybrid petrol and diesel forms, in standard RWD, and possibly in 4WD guise.
Of course, this information applies to ASEAN markets, as powertrain options, available bodystyles, and even the name of the truck could be different in other regions.
Besides the pickup, Toyota is also rumored to be working on an SUV version based on the same underpinnings as the Hilux Champ. This one is expected to arrive in emerging markets one year after the pickup. It is not clear if the SUV will share the same front-end design, something that could help further reduce R&D and production costs.
