What is special about Toyota Hilux?
The Toyota Hilux is a legendary pickup truck that has earned a reputation for its unparalleled durability, reliability, and off-road capabilities. Introduced in 1968, the Hilux has become a global icon, beloved by adventurers, farmers, and everyday drivers alike.
Unmatched Durability and Reliability
The Toyota Hilux is renowned for its exceptional build quality and longevity. It is often cited as one of the most durable vehicles ever produced, with many examples lasting for decades and clocking up hundreds of thousands of miles without major issues. The Hilux's robust construction, including a sturdy frame and reliable engine, has made it a favorite among those who need a vehicle that can withstand the toughest conditions.
Impressive Off-Road Capabilities
The Hilux's reputation for off-road prowess is well-deserved. The pickup is equipped with features that make it a formidable off-road performer, such as high ground clearance, four-wheel drive, and robust suspension. This combination of capabilities has made the Hilux a popular choice for adventurers, farmers, and others who need a vehicle that can tackle challenging terrain.
Global Popularity and Iconic Status
The Toyota Hilux has achieved a level of global popularity and iconic status that few other vehicles can match. It has been sold in over 180 countries worldwide and has become a symbol of ruggedness and reliability. The Hilux has also been featured in numerous films and television shows, further cementing its place in popular culture.
In conclusion, the Toyota Hilux is a truly remarkable pickup truck that has earned its place as a global icon. Its unmatched durability, reliability, and off-road capabilities have made it a favorite among a wide range of users, from adventurers to everyday drivers. The Hilux's enduring popularity and legendary status are a testament to its exceptional engineering and design.
Why is the Hilux illegal in the US?
The Toyota Hilux is not sold in the US primarily due to the "Chicken Tax," a 25% tariff on imported light trucks that makes it financially impractical. Additionally, the Hilux was not originally designed to meet the US's stricter safety, emissions, and fuel economy standards. Toyota also created the US-specific Toyota Tacoma to meet American market preferences for more features and comfort, and to avoid tariffs on vehicles produced in the US.
Reasons the Toyota Hilux isn't sold in the US
- The "Chicken Tax": This 25% tariff on imported light trucks was enacted in 1964 and makes it too expensive to import the Hilux and sell it competitively in the US.
- Different market and design: Toyota developed the Tacoma specifically for the North American market, which has different tastes and needs than the global Hilux. The Tacoma is typically more spacious and includes more features and comfort options.
- Safety and emissions standards: The Hilux was not designed to meet the US's strict Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) or EPA emissions regulations. Re-engineering the truck to meet these standards would be costly and time-consuming.
- Market competition: Toyota already has a successful mid-size truck in the US with the Tacoma and doesn't want the Hilux to compete with its own product.
What is so special about Toyota Hilux?
And a few unique modifications. There's a gun rack a removable toilet seat and a satnav with a few embarrassing secrets all in this very special Hilux weighs about 2.1 tons.
Is a Hilux just a Tacoma?
The main difference between Hilux and Tacoma lies in their market focus and availability. The Hilux is a global workhorse designed for commercial use with diesel engine options, superior towing capacity (3,500kg), and utilitarian design. It's available worldwide except in the US.
What is Toyota Hilux called in the USA?
The Toyota Hilux was sold in the U.S. as the Toyota Pickup until 1995, when it was replaced by the Toyota Tacoma. It was also known simply as the "Toyota Truck" after the early 1970s. There is no modern version of the global Hilux sold in the US, but a compact utility vehicle called the Hilux Champ is coming to the US market to fill a more affordable, no-frills niche, though it is not a direct replacement for the global Hilux.
- Past name: Before 1995, the Toyota pickup truck sold in the US was known as the Toyota Pickup, or simply "Toyota Truck".
- Current replacement: The Tacoma replaced the pickup/Hilux in the US market in 1995.
- New model: The new Toyota Hilux Champ is being released in the US as a compact, affordable, customizable chassis, different from the global Hilux and the Tacoma.
