When did Hilux stop being made in Japan?
The Toyota Hilux, a popular pickup truck, has been in production since 1968. While the Hilux is still being manufactured globally, it has not been produced in Japan since 1997.
The History of the Toyota Hilux in Japan
The Toyota Hilux was first introduced in Japan in 1968 as a compact pickup truck. It quickly gained popularity both domestically and internationally, becoming one of Toyota's best-selling models. The Hilux was produced in Japan at various Toyota manufacturing facilities until 1997, when production was shifted to other countries.
Reasons for Ending Hilux Production in Japan
- Shifting Production Priorities: As Toyota expanded its global operations, the company decided to focus Hilux production in other countries to meet growing international demand.
- Changing Market Demands: The Japanese domestic market's preference shifted towards smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles, reducing the demand for larger pickup trucks like the Hilux.
- Increased Competition: The Japanese pickup truck market became more competitive, with other manufacturers introducing their own models, making it more challenging for the Hilux to maintain its market share.
While the Hilux is no longer produced in Japan, it continues to be manufactured in countries such as Thailand, South Africa, and the United States to serve global markets.
What was the last Toyota truck made in Japan?
The T100 was the last Japanese-built Toyota pickup made for North America when production ceased in July 1998, sales being phased out in August and ending with the 1998 model year. The T100 was replaced by the larger V8-powered Tundra which debuted in 1999.
Is there Toyota Hilux in Japan?
In Japan, the Hilux was joined with the all new Toyota MasterAce, sharing load carrying duties which was sold at Toyota Store locations alongside the Hilux.
What country buys the most Toyota Hilux?
Australia: Toyota HiLux
For decades, a four-door sedan would have taken this spot, but since 2016 there's been no stopping one vehicle in particular: the Toyota HiLux. Last year, Toyota sold 64,391 Hiluxes, with the Ford Ranger Australia's second best-selling vehicle.
Why is the Toyota Hilux so cheap?
One reason the Hilux Champ doesn't cost much is the utter bare-bones nature of the truck. This is first and foremost a commercial vehicle, closer to the chassis cab Ford F-350 box truck you rent at U-Haul in terms of features and amenities than anything Toyota sells to the U.S. consumer.
What does N70 Hilux mean?
Enthusiasts have adopted the term 'N70' as a broader name for the 2005-2015 Toyota Hilux. People called the model before it the 'N60', and the model before that the 'N50'. Only real conclusion that can be made is that it's '7th Generation' of Toyota Hilux.
Why is there no Toyota Hilux in the USA?
Toyota's past struggles to break into the light-truck segment in the US market, particularly against American manufacturers, have led to focused marketing efforts on the Tacoma. This strategy, paired with the complexities of importing, has meant that the company has not prioritized bringing the Hilux to the US.
When was the last Hilux made in Japan?
Sixth generation (1997-2005)
This was the last HiLux built in Japan before production moved to Thailand. It was also the last HiLux range to be sold in its home country. The sixth-gen styling was again a mild evolution of a globally successful design, along with further enhancements of interior comfort and features.
What is Toyota Hilux called in USA?
Toyota actually sold the Toyota Hilux in the USA until 1976. Later, it adopted the name 'Toyota Truck' and continued its sales in the 'Toyota Truck' moniker until the Toyota Tacoma was brought to the US market in 1995.
What is Toyota Hilux called in the USA?
Toyota actually sold the Toyota Hilux in the USA until 1976. Later, it adopted the name 'Toyota Truck' and continued its sales in the 'Toyota Truck' moniker until the Toyota Tacoma was brought to the US market in 1995.
What is the US equivalent of a Toyota Hilux?
Consequently, the company developed the Toyota Tacoma, a North American version of the Hilux, offering similar features for the same market.