Why did they stop making Toyota Hilux?
The Toyota Hilux, a popular and rugged pickup truck, was discontinued in many markets around the world, including the United States, in the early 2000s. This decision was driven by a combination of factors, including changing consumer preferences, stricter emissions regulations, and the rise of more modern and fuel-efficient pickup truck models.
Changing Consumer Preferences
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, consumer demand for larger, more comfortable, and more feature-rich pickup trucks began to grow. The Hilux, known for its simplicity and durability, was seen as a more basic and utilitarian option compared to the increasingly popular full-size and mid-size pickup trucks offered by other automakers. Consumers were looking for pickups that could serve as both work vehicles and family transportation, with more amenities and creature comforts.
Stricter Emissions Regulations
Another factor that contributed to the discontinuation of the Hilux in many markets was the introduction of stricter emissions regulations. The Hilux's older engine designs and lack of advanced emissions control systems made it difficult for the vehicle to meet these new, more stringent standards. Automakers were forced to invest heavily in developing cleaner and more fuel-efficient engines to comply with the new regulations, which made it less viable to continue producing older, less efficient models like the Hilux.
Rise of Newer Pickup Truck Models
As the automotive industry evolved, Toyota and other manufacturers introduced newer, more modern pickup truck models that were better equipped to meet the changing needs and preferences of consumers. These newer models offered improved performance, fuel efficiency, safety features, and technology, making them more appealing to buyers than the aging Hilux design.
In the end, the decision to discontinue the Toyota Hilux in many markets was a strategic one, driven by the need to adapt to shifting consumer demands, stricter environmental regulations, and the introduction of more competitive pickup truck models. While the Hilux was a beloved and iconic vehicle, it ultimately could not keep pace with the rapid changes in the automotive industry.
Does the U.S. military use Toyota HiLux?
Private military contractors also use technicals and the United States military used modified Toyota Hiluxes, Land Cruisers, and other trucks as well.
Is the Hilux just 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 replaced the Toyota Hilux?
Since 1995, the 4Runner is a standalone SUV, while in the same year Toyota introduced the Tacoma to replace the Hilux pickup in North America.
Is the Toyota Hilux coming to America?
The Hilux will never come to the US market. They already dominate the midsized market with the Tacoma, so there's no point in bringing another similar sized vehicle to cannibalize Tacoma sales. People have been hoping for it, for decades, and nothing has ever transpired.
Are Hilux available in the USA?
Why is the Hilux pickup not offered in the USA? -Because it's not the right truck for the North American market, in Toyotas' opinion. The Tacoma is wildly successful in the small truck space. And they have the Tundra in the full size truck space.
What is the common problem of Toyota Hilux?
While the Toyota Hilux pickup truck is known for its durability and reliability, it is not immune to common issues that may arise. Turbo problems, starting and misfiring issues, loss of power, crank seal oil leaks and 5th gear synchronisation problems are some of the most common problems faced by Toyota Hilux owners.
What is HiLux called in the USA?
Consequently, the company developed the Toyota Tacoma, a North American version of the Hilux, offering similar features for the same market.
Why is the Hilux banned in the US?
The "Chicken Tax," a tariff on light trucks, was imposed by the United States in retaliation for tariffs placed by other countries on American chickens. This tax has significantly influenced the availability of the Hilux in the US, making it economically unviable to import in large numbers.
What happened to 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.
