Is the 1991 Toyota pickup a Hilux?
The 1991 Toyota Pickup is a vehicle that has sparked curiosity among car enthusiasts and owners alike. Many wonder whether this iconic truck is part of the globally renowned Toyota Hilux family. In this article, we’ll explore the connection between the 1991 Toyota Pickup and the Hilux, shedding light on its history and naming conventions.
The Toyota Hilux: A Global Icon
The Toyota Hilux is one of the most recognized and durable pickup trucks in the world. Known for its ruggedness and reliability, the Hilux has been a staple in Toyota’s lineup since its introduction in 1968. However, the name "Hilux" has not always been used universally, especially in the North American market.
The 1991 Toyota Pickup in North America
In North America, Toyota marketed its compact pickup trucks simply as the "Toyota Pickup" rather than using the Hilux name. This was a branding decision made by Toyota to simplify the naming for the U.S. and Canadian markets. Despite the different name, the 1991 Toyota Pickup sold in North America is indeed part of the Hilux lineage.
Underneath the hood and body, the 1991 Toyota Pickup shares the same engineering and design as the Hilux models sold in other parts of the world. It features the same robust construction, reliable engines, and off-road capabilities that the Hilux is famous for.
Why the Name Difference?
The decision to drop the Hilux name in North America was likely influenced by marketing strategies and consumer preferences. Toyota may have felt that a simpler name like "Toyota Pickup" would resonate better with the North American audience. This naming convention persisted until the introduction of the Toyota Tacoma in 1995, which replaced the Pickup in the U.S. and Canada.
Key Features of the 1991 Toyota Pickup (Hilux)
Here are some of the standout features of the 1991 Toyota Pickup, which align with the Hilux reputation:
- Engine Options: The 1991 Toyota Pickup offered a range of engines, including a 2.4L 4-cylinder and a 3.0L V6, known for their reliability and performance.
- Durability: Built with a sturdy frame and high-quality materials, the truck was designed to handle tough conditions.
- Off-Road Capability: With options for 4WD, the 1991 Toyota Pickup was a favorite among off-road enthusiasts.
- Versatility: Available in various configurations, including regular cab and extended cab, it catered to a wide range of needs.
Conclusion
To answer the question: Yes, the 1991 Toyota Pickup is a Hilux. While it was marketed under a different name in North America, it shares the same DNA as the Hilux models sold globally. This truck remains a testament to Toyota’s commitment to building reliable and versatile vehicles, earning its place in automotive history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Toyota Hilux a Tacoma?
Though they may appear similar outside, the Tacoma has a larger, more powerful engine than the Hilux and a more comfortable interior. The new Tacoma also has a larger towing capacity and more excellent safety features, such as additional airbags, than the Hilux.
What year was the Toyota Hilux?
1968
The Hilux debuted in March 1968 as a new bonnet-type truck that integrated and succeeded the Briska and the Light Stout. The vehicle was conceived by Toyota, and was developed and manufactured by Hino Motors, Ltd.
How many miles per gallon does a 1991 Toyota pickup get?
Based on data from 85 vehicles, 4,193 fuel-ups and 961,654 miles of driving, the 1991 Toyota Pickup gets a combined Avg MPG of 20.42 with a 0.20 MPG margin of error. Below you can see a distribution of the fuel-ups with 35 outliers (0.83%) removed.
What was the original Toyota pickup called?
In 1964, Toyota launched its first stand-alone small pickup truck in North America, the Stout. The half-ton 4x2 Stout was powered by an 86 horsepower, 1.9L four-cylinder engine. That first year, sales were inauspicious, to say the least. Just four Stouts were sold in 1964.
How much does a Toyota Hilux cost in the US?
The Toyota HiLux is available from $26,475 to $75,310 for the 2025 range of models in Extra Cab, Dual Cab and Single Cab body types.
Are Hilux and Tacoma the same?
Tacoma more lifestyle focused, Hilux largely commercial
Up until 1995, the then fifth-generation Hilux was imported into the US, branded as the Pickup model line. During that year, the Pickup was replaced by a different, American designed and built midsize pickup named the Tacoma.
Are Toyota Hilux legal in the US?
Yes, you can legally own a Toyota Hilux in the USA, but there are specific conditions and regulations you must follow, especially regarding the importation of vehicles that are not originally manufactured for the U.S. market.
What is a 1991 Toyota truck called?
| Toyota Hilux | |
|---|---|
| Also called | Toyota Pickup (United States, 1972–1995) |
| Production | March 1968 – present |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Compact pickup truck (1968–2004) Mid-size pickup truck (2004–present) |
What is the US version of the Toyota Hilux?
As long as the Hilux is produced outside of North America, it's unlikely to be sold here due to the well-known chicken tax. Instead, Toyota offers the Tacoma in the U.S., which is essentially the same vehicle as the Hilux but tailored to the North American market.
Is a Toyota Hilux a pickup truck?
Toyota Hilux is a 5-seater 4X4 pickup truck based on the same platform as the Fortuner. The Hilux is a rugged pickup known for its offroad nature and versatility. It gets a spacious cabin with the practicality of a big boot for more space.
