Toyota has just revealed to the world the Hilux Champ. If you’re wondering what this is, the Hilux Champ is what the next-generation Toyota Tamaraw will be, which was previewed in concept form called the IMV 0 in various auto shows last year. The concept also made its way in the Philippines during the 35th anniversary celebration of Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP), which came with various configurations ranging from motorsports use and even as a modern public utility vehicle (PUV).
But back to the production Toyota Tamaraw, this pickup rides on the most basic form of the IMV platform that they’ve been using for the longest time in the Fortuner, Hilux, and Innova (not the Zenix that features the TNGA-C platform). As a result, by going back to the basics, the next-generation Tamaraw is a return to form for an affordable Toyota that’s built mainly for utility use–a vehicle that’s been missing in their lineup for a while now.
In terms of design, there’s really nothing much to talk about. To meet a price point, the Toyota Tamaraw is all about function over form. However, depending on the variant, this model does come with modern touches such as LED headlights with LED daytime running lights, power-adjustable side mirrors, power windows, an air conditioning system, PVC upholstery, and even the provision for a touchscreen infotainment system.
Two wheelbase versions are offered in the Hilux Champ in Thailand, which will most likely translate into what the next-generation Tamaraw will get. The standard (short) wheelbase version measures 2,750 mm between the front and rear axles with a bed size of 2,312 mm, while the long wheelbase version has a 3,085 mm gap between the front and rear axles and a bed length of 2,647 mm.
You can also get a version without a bed, which then leaves you with the option to build anything you have in mind through the bolt holes in the IMV body-on-frame chassis.
As for engines, there are three choices, two of which are gasoline and one is diesel. Starting with the 2.0-liter gasoline (codenamed 1TR-FE), this engine produces 139 horses and 183 Nm, while the bigger 2.7-liter gasoline (aka the 2TR-FE) produces 166 horses and 245 Nm of torque. If the codename and figures give you a sense of deja vu, that’s because the 2.0-liter and 2.7-liter mills were fitted under the hoods of the Innova and Fortuner, respectively.
Lastly, the sole diesel option is a 2.4-liter turbo unit (codenamed 2GD-FTV) which produces 150 hp and 343 Nm if you get the five-speed manual or 400 Nm if you get the six-speed automatic. If this diesel engine is likewise familiar, that’s because this is what’s fitted under the hood of the lower variants of the current Hilux and Fortuner.
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