Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has just launched the highly anticipated 9th Gen Hilux pickup truck in the country. This is the first time a new generation of pickup truck has launched before its SUV counterpart, which is the Fortuner. This new fascia and this new interior is a preview to next-gen Fortuner, which is yet to begin domestic testing.
At the launch event, Toyota had kept a base GX 4X2 AT variant on display and then a campervan build in collaboration with Camper Dynamics, featuring a sleeping area, shower and everything in between. While 4X2 variants were offered globally, India gets a 4X2 variant for the first time, making it quite a special showcase.
Toyota Hilux Base GX 4X2 Variant
The base GX 4X2 AT variant was showcased at the launch event and for some reason, media were not allowed to access this vehicle. However, we do have some pictures of exteriors and interiors of base GX 4X2 AT variant. From the outside, the main distinction to identify the base GX trim are less premium headlights, halogen tail lights, halogen rear fog lights and unpainted Black door handles.
Along with these, base GX trim misses out on elements like LED DRLs, welcome door lamps, hood ornament, wheel arch liners, front fog lights, retractable ORVMs and shark-fin antenna being replaced by a conventional one. It still gets electrically adjustable ORVMs, same design language, 17-inch alloys with 265-section tyres, 80L fuel tank and more. It has to be noted that Sulphur Metallic launch colour and Attitude Black are only available with VX trim.
Base Variant Interiors
On the inside, all-black theme continues, but the most notable downgrade is the smaller 8-inch touchscreen infotainment screen with 4 speakers instead of the 12.3” unit in VX with 8 speakers. Soft touch elements are limited in GX too and door scuff plates are not illuminated. Attributes like wireless charging pad, drive modes, cruise control, smart key with push button start, rear centre armrest, PM 2.5 filter and others are missing.
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is wired with GX trim and there’s only one Type-C port, instead of 3 in VX. The 220V power outlet is limited to VX trim as well. In terms of safety, GX gets the same 7 airbags, but misses out on TPMS and 360-degree cameras. Even with GX 4X4 AT variant, downhill assist and multi terrain traction control features are missing, limited to just the VX variant. Manual AC along with 2.8L Diesel engine with 204 PS, 500 Nm and 6-speed torque converter automatic are standard across all variants.
Campervan Build with Camper Dynamics
At the launch event, Toyota collaborated with Camper Dynamics, which is a renowned truck camper builder based out of Bengaluru. The company is known for their extensive expertise in building modular slide-on flat-bed truck campers pickup trucks like the Toyota Hilux. Together, they showcased a campervan build based on the new 9th Gen Hilux for adventure seekers and lifestyle enthusiasts.
Representatives from Camper Dynamics mentioned a price tag of roughly around Rs 17.5 lakh for a basic structure of this campervan build and then sky is the limit if you want to kit it up as per your liking. The base structure is concealed and the roof area is of pop-up style which will liberate enough space even for a 6-footer like myself. Inside, you can get sleeping area for around two and then most amenities.
On the outside, we can see the shower area which can be concealed along with multiple utilities. There’s a sturdy ladder to climb into the cabin, and then a canopy to setup an outdoor space. Jerrycans, recovery traction boards, solar powered bulbs and other elements are offered too. Inside, we can see a kitchen area, sliding drawers for utensils, a table and sitting area for two, a butane camper stove, a wash basin and more.
