Toyota 4x4 Hilux is a series of compact pickup trucks produced and marketed by the Toyota Motor Corporation. Most countries used the Hilux name for the entire
The Toyota Hilux is a series of compact pickup trucks produced and marketed by the Toyota Motor Corporation. Most countries used the Hilux name for the entire life of the series but in North America, the Hilux name was retired in 1976 in favor of Truck, Pickup Truck, or Compact Truck. In North America the popular option package, the SR5 (Sport Rally 5-Speed), was colloquially used as a model name for the truck, even though the option package was also used on other Toyota models like the Corolla. In 1984, the Trekker, the camper version of the Hilux, was renamed as the 4Runner in Australia and North America, and as the Hilux Surf in Japan. In 1995, Toyota introduced a new pickup model, the Tacoma in the United States, discontinuing the Hilux/Pickup there. The 4Runner is now a full SUV, and the more recent models do not resemble the Tacoma.
The Hilux started production in March 1968[1] as the RN10 in short-wheelbase form with a 1.5 L engine. This was upgraded to a 1.6 L I4 engine in February 1971.
Global markets:
* 1968-1971 - 1.5 L (1490 cc) 2R I4[1]
In April 1969, a long-wheelbase version was added to the range. The short-wheelbase version also continued in production for many more years. The long-wheelbase version was not sold on the North American market until 1972.
In spite of the name "Hilux", it was a highly luxurious vehicle only when compared to the Stout. Hilux was engineered and assembled by Hino Motors to fill a niche between the smaller Briska and the larger Stout in most markets or to replace them in some markets. For the North American market, the only body style was a regular cab short bed and all were rear-wheel drive. It used a typical truck setup of A-arms and coil springs in front and a live axle with leaf springs in back. A 4-speed manual transmission was standard.
In May 1972,[1] the 1973 model year Hilux was released as the RN20. A more comfortable interior was specified along with exterior updates. A 2.3 m (7.5 ft) "long bed" was an option for the first time in North America, although such a version had been available worldwide since April 1969.[1]
The Hilux was radically redesigned in 1975 to be larger and more luxurious. In North America the new version also meant the introduction of the considerably larger (2.2 L) 20R engine and the SR5 upscale trim package. A five-speed manual transmission became optional. In North America, the Hilux name was fully phased out in favor of "Truck" by that year, having been dropped from brochures and advertising starting in 1973.
The redesigned Hilux was introduced in August 1978.,[1] with a 4WD variant introduced in Jan 1979.[1] Production of 4WD variants stopped in July 1983,[1] but some 2WD variations continued in parallel with the next generation.[1] The L series diesel engine was offered on the 2WD variants from September 1979 and the 4WD variants in March 1983.[1]
In North America the Hilux saw the use of four wheel drive. It had a solid front axle and leaf suspension. The body saw a redesign that included single round headlights and a less complex body. These trucks became known as first generation 4WDs. This new 4WD setup featured a gear driven RF1A transfer case. This transfer case is unique in that its low-range reduction portion can be replicated, using what a California-based company, Marlin Crawler, refers to as a dual or triple transfer case. This results in a much lower overall gear ratio.[2] It was the first Hilux with automatic transmission.
n 1981 a vehicle development agreement was established between Toyota, Winnebago Industries and two other aftermarket customizers. This was to allow Toyota to enter the SUV market in North America. The vehicles which resulted from this collaboration were the Trekker (Winnebago), Wolverine, and the Trailblazer (Griffith). All three used the Hilux 4×4 RV cab and chassis, and an all-fiberglass rear section (the Trailblazer had a steel bed with a fiberglass top). There were at least 1,500 Trekkers, 400 Trailblazers and an unknown number of Wolverines sold in North America. Research and development work on the Trekker lead to the development of the 4Runner, which was released in 1984. The 4Runner was sold in Australia, North America and the United Kingdom; in some other markets, such as Japan, it was called the Hilux Surf.
Toward the end of the SR5's production run (1983½ model year), Toyota introduced the luxury Mojave for the US market as a limited-production (3,500 units) model with options not available on any other Toyota pickup.[3] List priced at US$8,308,[3] it featured bucket seats, two-speaker multiplex radio, chrome front and rear bumpers, and no Toyota logo on either the grille or tailgate.[3] Cruise control, power steering, and air conditioning were optional.[3] It was powered by the SR5's standard 2.4 L
The August 1983 redesign introduced the Xtracab two-row extended cab option. 1984 models carried[clarification needed] over the carbureted 22R engine while 1985 saw the introduction of the fuel injected 22R-E. Two diesel engines were also offered, the 2.0 L and the turbocharged 2 L-T. The diesels were discontinued in the U.S. after the 1986 model year, this was due to higher performance expectations from customers and the wide availability of inexpensive gasoline. The next year saw the introduction of a turbocharged option, the 22R-TE, perhaps due to increasing competition from Nissan who already offered a V6 truck at this time. The solid front axle was swapped out for an independent front suspension/torsion bar setup in the 4×4 model in 1986, and optional automatic front locking hubs and an electronic transfer case was added as well. A V6 engine was introduced in 1988.
Toyota introduced a new generation of the Hilux in most markets in late 1988 but the fourth generation remained in production until 1997 in South Africa. Toyota says this was due to South African "content laws" and thus it was cheaper to continue to produce the fourth generation Hilux, rather than retool the plant for the fifth generation
The next redesign, in 1988, produced a longer-wheelbase option, 3,099 mm (122 in) rather than 2,616 mm (103 in) for the regular wheelbase. Its one-piece cargo-box walls eliminated the rust-prone seams that were found in earlier models. The V6 Xtracab SR5 earned Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year award that year. The Xtracabs now featured more room behind the front seats than the last generation which allowed optional jump-seats for rear passengers, a feature more in line with competitors of the time.
In 1991, American production began at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California (VIN starts with '4T'), however some trucks sold in the United States during the 91-95 model years were still manufactured in Japan (VIN starts with 'JT').
The Hilux received a minor facelift in the 1991, primarily a minor grill change and the new Toyota emblem that had been recently adopted. It was during this generation that Toyota discontinued the Hilux in the United States, replacing it with the new Tacoma in 1995
For sales in Colombia and Venezuela, the Hilux was produced in Colombia from 1994 to 1998 by the SOFASA company (only the petrol engine 2.4 l) and Ecuador). For sales in Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay, the Hilux was produced in Argentina from 1997 through 2005 (Zárate Plant - both petrol and diesel engines). For sales in Bolivia, Chile, Paraguay, Peru, the Hilux was imported from factories in Japan from 1989 to 1997 (petrol and diesel engines).
South American markets
Both the Tacoma and the Hilux were updated in 2005. The Tacoma was based on the new 4Runner chassis, while the Hilux rides on a refreshed version of the ladder frame found on previous versions. The new Hilux has increased in size and is now classified as a mid-size pick up. The Tacoma had a new 4.0 L V6 engine that produces 176 kW (236 hp) and 361 N·m (266 ft·lbf) of torque. Its design was very similar to the 4Runner.
Hilux models sold in Australian, Middle Eastern, and Asian markets are built and assembled in Thailand, where the vehicle is called the Hilux Vigo, or simply Vigo. For the European, South African and Icelandic markets the Hilux is built in Durban, South Africa. As of December 2009, it is the best selling vehicle in South Africa. Those sold in South America are made in Argentina, as with the previous generation Hilux.[7] In Asia, the Hilux Vigo platform was used as the basis for Toyota's IMV program which spawned the Innova MPV and Fortuner SUV/PPV.
In Malaysia, the Hilux is only available in 2.5 L with the option of single cab or double cab.[citation needed] The double cab model has an automatic transmission variant. It uses the same engine as other Asian countries (in-line, 4-cylinder, 16-valve, DOHC Turbo Diesel with common rail direct injection), however engines used in Malaysia differ in their maximum output of 75 kW (101 hp) at 3600 rpm and maximum torque of 260 N·m (192 ft·lbf) at 1600-2400 rpm.
In Singapore, the Hilux is available as a single cab with the 2.5 L engine or a double cab with the 3.0 L engine. However, the engines are built in Japan (where they are also used in the Prado) instead of Argentina.[citation needed] Notable fleet customers include private taxi operators, for whom the double cab model offers additional load space versatility, and the Singapore Police Force and Pakistan Police, which employs it as a patrol vehicle.
The Hilux will be built in Guangqi Toyota Automobile in Guangzhou for Chinese market. The models for China will be 4.0 L with the option of single cab or double cab. It uses the same engine as Australia (V6, 24-valve, DOHC), however engines used in China has been tuned up to the maximum output of 246 kW (330 hp) at 6500 rpm and maximum torque of 405 N·m (299 ft·lbf) at 4000 rpm, and is mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission. China is the only Asian country to get the V6 engine.
A facelifted version of the Hilux was unveiled by Toyota's Malaysian distributors, UMW Toyota Motor, in August 2008. Toyota has released a left hand drive facelifted Hilux Vigo in August 2008 while a right hand drive facelifted model is expected to be released in September 2008.[8] These facelifted models were introduced to the Philippines in October 2008.
Toyota also introduced a rear access system called "Smart Cab" to replace all Xtra Cab models in E and G grade. The Smart Cab models are only for the Thailand domestic market
On 13 July 2011, Toyota announced that the Hilux would receive an upgrade, including a redesigned front end and other external styling changes, changes to the interior and a new turbocharged diesel engine capable of 106 kW (142 hp) and 343 N·m (253 lb·ft) of torque, as well as lower fuel consumption compared to the previous model.[9] This updated was initially launched in Thailand.[10] Thailand version of 2012 Toyota Hilux Vigo "Champ" is a significant "minor" change with a new front look and a revamped interior to reinforce perceived luxuriousness. The front is redesigned from the A pillar forwards. With the exception of doors, roofs and tailgates, everything else is new: new guards, new headlights, new bumper, new bonnet, new three-bar grille, new taillights, a new rear bumper, new models badge and other. There are also new mirrors and new alloy wheel designs. The interior features a new upper dashboard design with a new horizontal centre instrument cluster. Perceived quality has been improved through the adoption of uniformly darker finishes with a greater colour consistency throughout the interior. The high-end Double Cab version now comes with DVD player , rear camera and Bluetooth functionality.[11] , Cristiano Ronaldo are presenter for Hilux Vigo Champ in Thailand , they are announced new "Diamond Tech" technology for commonrail in 2.5 L and 3.0 L diesel version , with upgraded 32-bit ECU and injector , but they aren't confirmed that passed Euro IV compilation that used in Thailand from January 1st , 2012
The Hilux has gained a reputation for exceptional sturdiness and reliability, even during sustained heavy use and/or abuse, and is often referred to as "The Indestructible Truck". This was further reinforced on the BBC motoring show Top Gear, when a 1988 diesel Hilux with 305,775 km (190,000 mi) on the odometer was subjected to extraordinary abuse (in series 3, episodes 5 and 6). This consisted of driving it down a flight of steps, scraping buildings, crashing headlong into a tree, being washed out to sea, and being submerged for four hours, driving it through a garden shed, dropping a caravan onto it, hitting it with a wrecking ball, setting its cabin and bed area on fire,[12] and, finally, placing it on top of a 73 m (240 ft) block of apartments that was next destroyed by a controlled demolition.[13] Although it was now suffering from severe structural damage, the truck was still running after being repaired without spare parts, and with only typical tools that would be found in a truck's toolbox, such as screwdrivers, motor oil, and an adjustable wrench,[14] however WD-40 was used to get the engine going after it had been recovered from the sea. The Hilux currently rests as one of the background decorations in the Top Gear studio.
In the TV series of 2006, (series 8, episode 3), a Hilux was chosen by Jeremy Clarkson as his platform for creating an amphibious vehicle. With assistance, Clarkson rigged the truck with a massive outboard motor, ironically made by Honda, and steering mechanism in the pickup bed. The truck, redubbed the "Toybota", was driven by Clarkson over several miles by road and 3.2 km (2 mi) across open water, before capsizing (three metres away from the finish) during a quick turn. Once recovered, the vehicle was moved back to the Top Gear Studio, where a confident Clarkson stated that he would be the only one capable of driving his truck home, since it was the indestructible Hilux. However, Clarkson could not get the Hilux started - which led his co-hosts to believe that Clarkson had finally destroyed the "indestructible". When Clarkson turned the engine over, it produced a puffing and hissing sound as though the injectors or the heater plugs had been removed.
In 2007, Top Gear ran a special program in which Clarkson and James May raced a customized 2005 model Hilux to the 1996 magnetic north pole from Northern Canada against Richard Hammond using a dog sled, and won. This episode, known as the Top Gear Polar Special, made the truck the first motor vehicle to make it to the magnetic north pole. The Hilux used was slightly modified: larger wheels and thicker tyres were installed, a thick sump guard was installed, the front suspension was moved forward, a gun mount was installed, some powerful front lights were installed (although they were not needed, as it was still polar daytime at 23:30) and a toilet seat (called the 'Bumper Dumper' by Clarkson) was mounted on the rear bumper.
In 2010, the Top Gear host James May drove a modified Hilux, one which had served as the camera crew's vehicle during the 2007 polar special, to approach the summit of an erupting Icelandic volcano and retrieved a fragment of volcanic lava. The Hilux was modified for this task by the installation of a simple metal "umbrella" and alcohol cooling drips for its tyres. This was filmed shortly before the stopping of all airline flights in that area due to volcanic ash expelled by the volcano (Series 15, Episode 1).
Outside of TV programs, these vehicles have been known to exceed 482,803 km (300,000 mi) with regular maintenance. It is also notorious for being used as an improvised fighting vehicle–a "technical" – by militias and irregular military forces, especially in Third World conflicts.[15] The Toyota War between Libya and Chad was so named because of the use of Hilux trucks as light cavalry vehicles by the army of Chad. These vehicles have also been used in the Iraq war as Improvised Explosive Devices (IED). Militias have been known to outfit this vehicle with stolen, post-Soviet Union missiles and equipment. The Toyota War saw use of the Hilux as a towing vehicle, serving to tow aircraft and tanks, including the T-62 heavy tank from the former Soviet army. There are currently 37 customized Hiluxes used by the People's Liberation Army in the Southern region of China. The Toyota Hilux has been widely used by Pakistan Army. However, Mitsubishi L200s were bought instead of seventh-generation Hilux recently to replace worn out vehicles. The New Zealand Army currently uses the Toyota Hilux for its troops in Afghanistan, as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. US Special Forces also use specially modified Tacoma and Hilux in Afghanistan. [16][17]
In October 2007, the Swedish auto magazine Teknikens Värld performed an evasive manoeuvre (a moose test) that revealed that the manoeuvrability of Hilux pickup truck was deficient for turning sharply at moderate speeds. The truck failed the test and only the driver's skill prevented it from overturning. After the test Toyota stopped the sales of Hilux equipped with 16" wheels in Europe.
A world record was achieved by the support crew for the participants in the 2008/2009 Amundsen Omega 3 South Pole Race. The crew travelled in specially adapted Toyota Hiluxs modified by Arctic Trucks, completing a trip of over 5,000 km (3,100 mi) from Novo, a Russian Scientific Station in Antarctica to the Geographic South Pole and back again, making them the first 4×4s to reach the South Pole. The return journey of 2,500 km (1,600 mi) from the South Pole to Novo Station was completed in a record 8 days and 17 hours.
Hello there new Toyota 4x4 owner! Interested in building your Toyota for some serious fun on the rocks? Well hopefully this simple straight to the point article will give you some direction as far as different options you will be looking at and the costs involved. The prices you see reflect only the price of the part. If you will be needing a mechanic or professional installation, then you will need to think about this heavy cost as well. My recommendation: read, learn, and do it yourself. It’s a lot cheaper this way. Before you buy anything, get a copy of John Muir's How to Keep Your Toyota 4x4 Alive for the Complete Idiot. This is a great book with a lot of information and comical information. Muir tells it as is and is not so "dry" in doing so.
Here you will find basic information on what it takes to build a decent trail rig for Rock Crawling and or getting there on the road with it. I'm not talking rock buggy here, I'm talking a rig that is road worthy and could be used as a everyday driver. If you are building a rig for mudding, pre-running, or other driving then you will need to find another how-to article to read. The following components I talk about are mainly for the type of trails we run at Wild Yoats.
Disclaimer- When I first got into this hobby, many friends told me what to get and what to stay away from. I learned from this. At times the hard way, spending money on items that I will need to spend more money on later. Yes, it may be cheaper now, but will it be cheaper in the long run? Probably not. Trust me, spend a little more now and you will be happier in the long run.
Furthermore, I wrote this article based on my opinion and experience with over 14 years of fourwheeling. Some people might disagree with a product, if they do, then great, have them write their own article!! Welcome to my world. :-) (don’t mean to sound arrogant here).
Also, my theory is at times, the less the better. The more you tweak a vehicle, the more you have to fix later ( to a certain degree). Do you want to have fun on the trail or do you want to be screwing with everything?
Many and all different Toyota 4x4's are extremely capable to being killer four wheelers. However some are more desired. In a nut shell, 1985 is the year to have. Why? Last year of the solid axle and first year of the EFI. Although any of the 79-85 trucks and 4runners are great. These days, there are a lot of folks switching their 86 and up IFS (Independent Front Suspension) to solid axle. This way they have a nicer ride, a little more comfort or power from the V6 and extreme off road capability. The drawback, more money spent on other things you could have spent it on. Not to mention, you REALLY need to know what your doing on a axle swap otherwise your in for quite the treat or hospital stay.
Ok, here’s the beef. Yes, you can spend less for suspension but you get what you pay for. Besides, the money you save you will need to pay the orthodontist to put your fillings back in after a day of wheeling. Let’s face it, fatigue is common in wheeling for a whole day. If you choose stiff springs, you will only be much more fatigued and pissed at the world. Not to mention the articulation thing. By the way, the word "articulation" is now your new best friend. This is what you need for rockcrawling.
Which? Add a leaf, blocks, or complete spring packs. Go with all four new spring packs period, don’t even mess with the other crap.
How much lift? At least 4" or 5.5" or somewhere in between. Don’t get to high, it may look cool but trust me, it’s no fun on the trail when your constantly almost tipping over. The goal is to keep your center of gravity at a decent level.
As far as I am concerned, there is only two companies that make great suspension springs for the Toyota’s. Alcan and All-Pro. Both are similar in cost and many who run Toyota’s run these.
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The Toyota Hilux is a series of compact pickup trucks produced and marketed by the Toyota Motor Corporation. Most countries used the Hilux name for the entire life of the series but in North America, the Hilux name was retired in 1976 in favor of Truck, Pickup Truck, or Compact Truck. In North America the popular option package, the SR5 (Sport Rally 5-Speed), was colloquially used as a model name for the truck, even though the option package was also used on other Toyota models like the Corolla. In 1984, the Trekker, the camper version of the Hilux, was renamed as the 4Runner in Australia and North America, and as the Hilux Surf in Japan. In 1995, Toyota introduced a new pickup model, the Tacoma in the United States, discontinuing the Hilux/Pickup there. The 4Runner is now a full SUV, and the more recent models do not resemble the Tacoma.
The Hilux started production in March 1968[1] as the RN10 in short-wheelbase form with a 1.5 L engine. This was upgraded to a 1.6 L I4 engine in February 1971.
Global markets:
* 1968-1971 - 1.5 L (1490 cc) 2R I4[1]
In April 1969, a long-wheelbase version was added to the range. The short-wheelbase version also continued in production for many more years. The long-wheelbase version was not sold on the North American market until 1972.
In spite of the name "Hilux", it was a highly luxurious vehicle only when compared to the Stout. Hilux was engineered and assembled by Hino Motors to fill a niche between the smaller Briska and the larger Stout in most markets or to replace them in some markets. For the North American market, the only body style was a regular cab short bed and all were rear-wheel drive. It used a typical truck setup of A-arms and coil springs in front and a live axle with leaf springs in back. A 4-speed manual transmission was standard.
In May 1972,[1] the 1973 model year Hilux was released as the RN20. A more comfortable interior was specified along with exterior updates. A 2.3 m (7.5 ft) "long bed" was an option for the first time in North America, although such a version had been available worldwide since April 1969.[1]
The Hilux was radically redesigned in 1975 to be larger and more luxurious. In North America the new version also meant the introduction of the considerably larger (2.2 L) 20R engine and the SR5 upscale trim package. A five-speed manual transmission became optional. In North America, the Hilux name was fully phased out in favor of "Truck" by that year, having been dropped from brochures and advertising starting in 1973.
The redesigned Hilux was introduced in August 1978.,[1] with a 4WD variant introduced in Jan 1979.[1] Production of 4WD variants stopped in July 1983,[1] but some 2WD variations continued in parallel with the next generation.[1] The L series diesel engine was offered on the 2WD variants from September 1979 and the 4WD variants in March 1983.[1]
In North America the Hilux saw the use of four wheel drive. It had a solid front axle and leaf suspension. The body saw a redesign that included single round headlights and a less complex body. These trucks became known as first generation 4WDs. This new 4WD setup featured a gear driven RF1A transfer case. This transfer case is unique in that its low-range reduction portion can be replicated, using what a California-based company, Marlin Crawler, refers to as a dual or triple transfer case. This results in a much lower overall gear ratio.[2] It was the first Hilux with automatic transmission.
n 1981 a vehicle development agreement was established between Toyota, Winnebago Industries and two other aftermarket customizers. This was to allow Toyota to enter the SUV market in North America. The vehicles which resulted from this collaboration were the Trekker (Winnebago), Wolverine, and the Trailblazer (Griffith). All three used the Hilux 4×4 RV cab and chassis, and an all-fiberglass rear section (the Trailblazer had a steel bed with a fiberglass top). There were at least 1,500 Trekkers, 400 Trailblazers and an unknown number of Wolverines sold in North America. Research and development work on the Trekker lead to the development of the 4Runner, which was released in 1984. The 4Runner was sold in Australia, North America and the United Kingdom; in some other markets, such as Japan, it was called the Hilux Surf.
Toward the end of the SR5's production run (1983½ model year), Toyota introduced the luxury Mojave for the US market as a limited-production (3,500 units) model with options not available on any other Toyota pickup.[3] List priced at US$8,308,[3] it featured bucket seats, two-speaker multiplex radio, chrome front and rear bumpers, and no Toyota logo on either the grille or tailgate.[3] Cruise control, power steering, and air conditioning were optional.[3] It was powered by the SR5's standard 2.4 L
The August 1983 redesign introduced the Xtracab two-row extended cab option. 1984 models carried[clarification needed] over the carbureted 22R engine while 1985 saw the introduction of the fuel injected 22R-E. Two diesel engines were also offered, the 2.0 L and the turbocharged 2 L-T. The diesels were discontinued in the U.S. after the 1986 model year, this was due to higher performance expectations from customers and the wide availability of inexpensive gasoline. The next year saw the introduction of a turbocharged option, the 22R-TE, perhaps due to increasing competition from Nissan who already offered a V6 truck at this time. The solid front axle was swapped out for an independent front suspension/torsion bar setup in the 4×4 model in 1986, and optional automatic front locking hubs and an electronic transfer case was added as well. A V6 engine was introduced in 1988.
Toyota introduced a new generation of the Hilux in most markets in late 1988 but the fourth generation remained in production until 1997 in South Africa. Toyota says this was due to South African "content laws" and thus it was cheaper to continue to produce the fourth generation Hilux, rather than retool the plant for the fifth generation
The next redesign, in 1988, produced a longer-wheelbase option, 3,099 mm (122 in) rather than 2,616 mm (103 in) for the regular wheelbase. Its one-piece cargo-box walls eliminated the rust-prone seams that were found in earlier models. The V6 Xtracab SR5 earned Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year award that year. The Xtracabs now featured more room behind the front seats than the last generation which allowed optional jump-seats for rear passengers, a feature more in line with competitors of the time.
In 1991, American production began at the NUMMI plant in Fremont, California (VIN starts with '4T'), however some trucks sold in the United States during the 91-95 model years were still manufactured in Japan (VIN starts with 'JT').
The Hilux received a minor facelift in the 1991, primarily a minor grill change and the new Toyota emblem that had been recently adopted. It was during this generation that Toyota discontinued the Hilux in the United States, replacing it with the new Tacoma in 1995
For sales in Colombia and Venezuela, the Hilux was produced in Colombia from 1994 to 1998 by the SOFASA company (only the petrol engine 2.4 l) and Ecuador). For sales in Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay, the Hilux was produced in Argentina from 1997 through 2005 (Zárate Plant - both petrol and diesel engines). For sales in Bolivia, Chile, Paraguay, Peru, the Hilux was imported from factories in Japan from 1989 to 1997 (petrol and diesel engines).
South American markets
Both the Tacoma and the Hilux were updated in 2005. The Tacoma was based on the new 4Runner chassis, while the Hilux rides on a refreshed version of the ladder frame found on previous versions. The new Hilux has increased in size and is now classified as a mid-size pick up. The Tacoma had a new 4.0 L V6 engine that produces 176 kW (236 hp) and 361 N·m (266 ft·lbf) of torque. Its design was very similar to the 4Runner.
Hilux models sold in Australian, Middle Eastern, and Asian markets are built and assembled in Thailand, where the vehicle is called the Hilux Vigo, or simply Vigo. For the European, South African and Icelandic markets the Hilux is built in Durban, South Africa. As of December 2009, it is the best selling vehicle in South Africa. Those sold in South America are made in Argentina, as with the previous generation Hilux.[7] In Asia, the Hilux Vigo platform was used as the basis for Toyota's IMV program which spawned the Innova MPV and Fortuner SUV/PPV.
In Malaysia, the Hilux is only available in 2.5 L with the option of single cab or double cab.[citation needed] The double cab model has an automatic transmission variant. It uses the same engine as other Asian countries (in-line, 4-cylinder, 16-valve, DOHC Turbo Diesel with common rail direct injection), however engines used in Malaysia differ in their maximum output of 75 kW (101 hp) at 3600 rpm and maximum torque of 260 N·m (192 ft·lbf) at 1600-2400 rpm.
In Singapore, the Hilux is available as a single cab with the 2.5 L engine or a double cab with the 3.0 L engine. However, the engines are built in Japan (where they are also used in the Prado) instead of Argentina.[citation needed] Notable fleet customers include private taxi operators, for whom the double cab model offers additional load space versatility, and the Singapore Police Force and Pakistan Police, which employs it as a patrol vehicle.
The Hilux will be built in Guangqi Toyota Automobile in Guangzhou for Chinese market. The models for China will be 4.0 L with the option of single cab or double cab. It uses the same engine as Australia (V6, 24-valve, DOHC), however engines used in China has been tuned up to the maximum output of 246 kW (330 hp) at 6500 rpm and maximum torque of 405 N·m (299 ft·lbf) at 4000 rpm, and is mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission. China is the only Asian country to get the V6 engine.
A facelifted version of the Hilux was unveiled by Toyota's Malaysian distributors, UMW Toyota Motor, in August 2008. Toyota has released a left hand drive facelifted Hilux Vigo in August 2008 while a right hand drive facelifted model is expected to be released in September 2008.[8] These facelifted models were introduced to the Philippines in October 2008.
Toyota also introduced a rear access system called "Smart Cab" to replace all Xtra Cab models in E and G grade. The Smart Cab models are only for the Thailand domestic market
On 13 July 2011, Toyota announced that the Hilux would receive an upgrade, including a redesigned front end and other external styling changes, changes to the interior and a new turbocharged diesel engine capable of 106 kW (142 hp) and 343 N·m (253 lb·ft) of torque, as well as lower fuel consumption compared to the previous model.[9] This updated was initially launched in Thailand.[10] Thailand version of 2012 Toyota Hilux Vigo "Champ" is a significant "minor" change with a new front look and a revamped interior to reinforce perceived luxuriousness. The front is redesigned from the A pillar forwards. With the exception of doors, roofs and tailgates, everything else is new: new guards, new headlights, new bumper, new bonnet, new three-bar grille, new taillights, a new rear bumper, new models badge and other. There are also new mirrors and new alloy wheel designs. The interior features a new upper dashboard design with a new horizontal centre instrument cluster. Perceived quality has been improved through the adoption of uniformly darker finishes with a greater colour consistency throughout the interior. The high-end Double Cab version now comes with DVD player , rear camera and Bluetooth functionality.[11] , Cristiano Ronaldo are presenter for Hilux Vigo Champ in Thailand , they are announced new "Diamond Tech" technology for commonrail in 2.5 L and 3.0 L diesel version , with upgraded 32-bit ECU and injector , but they aren't confirmed that passed Euro IV compilation that used in Thailand from January 1st , 2012
The Hilux has gained a reputation for exceptional sturdiness and reliability, even during sustained heavy use and/or abuse, and is often referred to as "The Indestructible Truck". This was further reinforced on the BBC motoring show Top Gear, when a 1988 diesel Hilux with 305,775 km (190,000 mi) on the odometer was subjected to extraordinary abuse (in series 3, episodes 5 and 6). This consisted of driving it down a flight of steps, scraping buildings, crashing headlong into a tree, being washed out to sea, and being submerged for four hours, driving it through a garden shed, dropping a caravan onto it, hitting it with a wrecking ball, setting its cabin and bed area on fire,[12] and, finally, placing it on top of a 73 m (240 ft) block of apartments that was next destroyed by a controlled demolition.[13] Although it was now suffering from severe structural damage, the truck was still running after being repaired without spare parts, and with only typical tools that would be found in a truck's toolbox, such as screwdrivers, motor oil, and an adjustable wrench,[14] however WD-40 was used to get the engine going after it had been recovered from the sea. The Hilux currently rests as one of the background decorations in the Top Gear studio.
In the TV series of 2006, (series 8, episode 3), a Hilux was chosen by Jeremy Clarkson as his platform for creating an amphibious vehicle. With assistance, Clarkson rigged the truck with a massive outboard motor, ironically made by Honda, and steering mechanism in the pickup bed. The truck, redubbed the "Toybota", was driven by Clarkson over several miles by road and 3.2 km (2 mi) across open water, before capsizing (three metres away from the finish) during a quick turn. Once recovered, the vehicle was moved back to the Top Gear Studio, where a confident Clarkson stated that he would be the only one capable of driving his truck home, since it was the indestructible Hilux. However, Clarkson could not get the Hilux started - which led his co-hosts to believe that Clarkson had finally destroyed the "indestructible". When Clarkson turned the engine over, it produced a puffing and hissing sound as though the injectors or the heater plugs had been removed.
In 2007, Top Gear ran a special program in which Clarkson and James May raced a customized 2005 model Hilux to the 1996 magnetic north pole from Northern Canada against Richard Hammond using a dog sled, and won. This episode, known as the Top Gear Polar Special, made the truck the first motor vehicle to make it to the magnetic north pole. The Hilux used was slightly modified: larger wheels and thicker tyres were installed, a thick sump guard was installed, the front suspension was moved forward, a gun mount was installed, some powerful front lights were installed (although they were not needed, as it was still polar daytime at 23:30) and a toilet seat (called the 'Bumper Dumper' by Clarkson) was mounted on the rear bumper.
In 2010, the Top Gear host James May drove a modified Hilux, one which had served as the camera crew's vehicle during the 2007 polar special, to approach the summit of an erupting Icelandic volcano and retrieved a fragment of volcanic lava. The Hilux was modified for this task by the installation of a simple metal "umbrella" and alcohol cooling drips for its tyres. This was filmed shortly before the stopping of all airline flights in that area due to volcanic ash expelled by the volcano (Series 15, Episode 1).
Outside of TV programs, these vehicles have been known to exceed 482,803 km (300,000 mi) with regular maintenance. It is also notorious for being used as an improvised fighting vehicle–a "technical" – by militias and irregular military forces, especially in Third World conflicts.[15] The Toyota War between Libya and Chad was so named because of the use of Hilux trucks as light cavalry vehicles by the army of Chad. These vehicles have also been used in the Iraq war as Improvised Explosive Devices (IED). Militias have been known to outfit this vehicle with stolen, post-Soviet Union missiles and equipment. The Toyota War saw use of the Hilux as a towing vehicle, serving to tow aircraft and tanks, including the T-62 heavy tank from the former Soviet army. There are currently 37 customized Hiluxes used by the People's Liberation Army in the Southern region of China. The Toyota Hilux has been widely used by Pakistan Army. However, Mitsubishi L200s were bought instead of seventh-generation Hilux recently to replace worn out vehicles. The New Zealand Army currently uses the Toyota Hilux for its troops in Afghanistan, as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. US Special Forces also use specially modified Tacoma and Hilux in Afghanistan. [16][17]
In October 2007, the Swedish auto magazine Teknikens Värld performed an evasive manoeuvre (a moose test) that revealed that the manoeuvrability of Hilux pickup truck was deficient for turning sharply at moderate speeds. The truck failed the test and only the driver's skill prevented it from overturning. After the test Toyota stopped the sales of Hilux equipped with 16" wheels in Europe.
A world record was achieved by the support crew for the participants in the 2008/2009 Amundsen Omega 3 South Pole Race. The crew travelled in specially adapted Toyota Hiluxs modified by Arctic Trucks, completing a trip of over 5,000 km (3,100 mi) from Novo, a Russian Scientific Station in Antarctica to the Geographic South Pole and back again, making them the first 4×4s to reach the South Pole. The return journey of 2,500 km (1,600 mi) from the South Pole to Novo Station was completed in a record 8 days and 17 hours.
Hello there new Toyota 4x4 owner! Interested in building your Toyota for some serious fun on the rocks? Well hopefully this simple straight to the point article will give you some direction as far as different options you will be looking at and the costs involved. The prices you see reflect only the price of the part. If you will be needing a mechanic or professional installation, then you will need to think about this heavy cost as well. My recommendation: read, learn, and do it yourself. It’s a lot cheaper this way. Before you buy anything, get a copy of John Muir's How to Keep Your Toyota 4x4 Alive for the Complete Idiot. This is a great book with a lot of information and comical information. Muir tells it as is and is not so "dry" in doing so.
Here you will find basic information on what it takes to build a decent trail rig for Rock Crawling and or getting there on the road with it. I'm not talking rock buggy here, I'm talking a rig that is road worthy and could be used as a everyday driver. If you are building a rig for mudding, pre-running, or other driving then you will need to find another how-to article to read. The following components I talk about are mainly for the type of trails we run at Wild Yoats.
Disclaimer- When I first got into this hobby, many friends told me what to get and what to stay away from. I learned from this. At times the hard way, spending money on items that I will need to spend more money on later. Yes, it may be cheaper now, but will it be cheaper in the long run? Probably not. Trust me, spend a little more now and you will be happier in the long run.
Furthermore, I wrote this article based on my opinion and experience with over 14 years of fourwheeling. Some people might disagree with a product, if they do, then great, have them write their own article!! Welcome to my world. :-) (don’t mean to sound arrogant here).
Also, my theory is at times, the less the better. The more you tweak a vehicle, the more you have to fix later ( to a certain degree). Do you want to have fun on the trail or do you want to be screwing with everything?
Many and all different Toyota 4x4's are extremely capable to being killer four wheelers. However some are more desired. In a nut shell, 1985 is the year to have. Why? Last year of the solid axle and first year of the EFI. Although any of the 79-85 trucks and 4runners are great. These days, there are a lot of folks switching their 86 and up IFS (Independent Front Suspension) to solid axle. This way they have a nicer ride, a little more comfort or power from the V6 and extreme off road capability. The drawback, more money spent on other things you could have spent it on. Not to mention, you REALLY need to know what your doing on a axle swap otherwise your in for quite the treat or hospital stay.
Ok, here’s the beef. Yes, you can spend less for suspension but you get what you pay for. Besides, the money you save you will need to pay the orthodontist to put your fillings back in after a day of wheeling. Let’s face it, fatigue is common in wheeling for a whole day. If you choose stiff springs, you will only be much more fatigued and pissed at the world. Not to mention the articulation thing. By the way, the word "articulation" is now your new best friend. This is what you need for rockcrawling.
Which? Add a leaf, blocks, or complete spring packs. Go with all four new spring packs period, don’t even mess with the other crap.
How much lift? At least 4" or 5.5" or somewhere in between. Don’t get to high, it may look cool but trust me, it’s no fun on the trail when your constantly almost tipping over. The goal is to keep your center of gravity at a decent level.
As far as I am concerned, there is only two companies that make great suspension springs for the Toyota’s. Alcan and All-Pro. Both are similar in cost and many who run Toyota’s run these.
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Toyota 4x4
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