For more than 50 years now, the Toyota Hilux has arguably helped set the standard as far as affordable 4×4 pickup trucks are concerned.
It’s been through dozens of iterations and eight generations and yet retains the same basic design principles that have made it a modern classic in the eyes of off-roaders.
Why is it so popular?
The Hilux name brings with it a reputation for go-anywhere reliability that is also synonymous with the Toyota brand in general.
It’s famous for its comfortable ride (even on the roughest terrain), spacious cabin, and impressive load area. But it’s got far more to offer than just adequate loading space.
For one thing, it’s an imposing beast of a machine and while more modern iterations might court the luxury end of the market, it’s a line that has never forgotten its roots as a rugged runaround.
Ultimately, it’s more of a workhorse than a show pony and that much shines through in everything from its utilitarian looks to its solid construction and unfussy interior.
Is it off-road?
Given the sheer size of the Hilux, you might assume it was an unruly beast that might struggle in more ambitious terrain – but you would be mistaken.
Granted most models come with just a 2.4-litre diesel engine, but remember this is a pickup at heart. With 150hp, you’ll have more than enough power to tow up to 3500kg.
The steering, meanwhile, is surprisingly light for a 4×4 and while the suspension of earlier models is nothing to write home about, there are always upgrades to consider.
Newer models, thankfully, have been packed to the gills with off-road tech like hill descent control and rear diff lockers, as well as reliable on/off FWD control. There are various driving modes to flick through too, suitable for various types of terrain.
While more recent models have been enhanced with automatic electronic control that replicates the effect of a mechanical limited-slip differential, meaning enhanced traction and off-road reliability, the Hilux is never going to be able to compete with dedicated off-road vehicles.
But if your budget can only stretch to either a pickup or an off-road hobby mobile then this could represent the ideal compromise. Particularly when you consider how upgradable it is.
Does it upgrade?
Given its relative ubiquity and affordability, the Hilux is a perfect project vehicle with dozens of potential upgrade paths to travel down, should you be inclined.
ARB Air Locker, for example, produces a range of rear locking differentials for the vast majority of models, so even if your Hilux was produced in the 80s you can get it performing like a Hilux manufactured a few years ago. In theory, at least.
Terrain Tamer also manufactures a complete pro suspension kit suitable for many of the more modern models, while Old Man Emu have a range of bypass shock absorbers that will really soften what can be a rather bumpy ride in older models.
The best of both worlds
The Toyota Hilux is a vehicle that certainly has its detractors (among them one Jeremy Clarkson) but it’s also, at its core, something of a unique hybrid between an entry-level off-roader and a very flexible and powerful pickup truck.
If that sounds like something that interests you then we certainly wouldn’t blame you.
Image: Streetmetal / Shutterstock.com
