A right-hand-drive Toyota HiLux Champ has been spotted testing in Victoria, Australia, sparking speculation that the company may be reconsidering its decision not to offer the budget-focused ute in developed markets. The HiLux Champ was unveiled last year as a low-cost, body-on-frame pickup primarily intended for markets in Southeast Asia, such as Thailand and the Philippines. It was previously ruled out for sale in Australia, but the local sighting suggests that Toyota may be exploring broader testing or potential market suitability for the vehicle.
The HiLux Champ is available in two configurations overseas: a short-wheelbase model with a 2750mm wheelbase and a long-wheelbase version with a 3085mm wheelbase. The vehicle measures 4970mm in length for the short-wheelbase model and 5300mm for the long-wheelbase version, with a width of 1785mm and height of 1735mm. Under the bonnet, buyers in Thailand can choose from three engines: a 2.0-litre petrol engine, a 2.7-litre petrol unit, and a 2.4-litre turbo-diesel. Transmission options include a five-speed manual and a six-speed automatic, with all models remaining rear-wheel drive only.
Pricing for the HiLux Champ in Thailand starts from 459,000 to 577,000 baht, which is roughly equivalent to A$21,600 to A$27,100. This is lower than the starting price of the standard HiLux in the same market, which begins at 564,000 baht (around A$26,500). The sighting of the HiLux Champ in Australia follows Toyota’s recent reveal of the LandCruiser FJ, another ladder-frame model developed for emerging markets. While it remains unclear if the HiLux Champ will officially be released in Australia, its presence in Victoria has sparked speculation about the possibility of a localized version.
Toyota’s increased focus on producing more affordable, rugged vehicles for global markets is highlighted by the development of both the HiLux Champ and the LandCruiser FJ. However, it is unclear if any of these vehicles will make it to the Australian market. CarSauce has reached out to Toyota for comment, but the company has not yet confirmed whether the HiLux Champ will be released in Australia. The spotting of the HiLux Champ in Victoria has certainly sparked interest and speculation among car enthusiasts, and it will be interesting to see if Toyota decides to bring this budget-focused ute to the Australian market.