2024 Toyota HiLux Champ launched in Thailand, from $19,000

The 2024 Toyota HiLux Champ has launched in Thailand, marking the debut of a new entry-level one-tonne ute for the Japanese brand – priced from just 495,000 baht ($A19,300).

Based heavily on the well-received Toyota IMV 0 concept that was previewed in Bangkok last December, the new Toyota HiLux Champ is available in short- and long-wheelbase guise and has three powertrain options.

These are a 102kW/183Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol, 122kW/245Nm 2.7-litre petrol and a more efficient and muscular 110kW/343Nm 2.4-litre turbo-diesel.

Transmission options include a five-speed manual and six-speed automatic.

Available to order now in Thailand, the Champ has eight model grades that span workhorse and recreational applications.

The looks suggest the Champ is a much smaller version of the current HiLux, but in long-wheelbase guise it measures 5300mm long, 1785mm wide and stands 1735mm tall – making it 35mm longer, 15mm narrower and 35mm taller than Australia’s top-selling vehicle.

That’s perhaps no surprise when you consider the Champ shares the same IMV ladder-frame platform as the best-selling HiLux, with payload capacity up to a tonne.

What isn’t offered, at least initially, is a 4x4 drivetrain. Also limiting its appeal is the fact that all Thai versions of the HiLux Champ will come with only a single-cab body style.

Inside, there’s also a distinct lack of modern technology, with an emphasis on hard-wearing cabin trim and only basic convenience equipment such as air-conditioning and electric windows.

Instead, Toyota hope buyers will appreciate just how practical the HiLux Champ is, either as a workhorse or lifestyle machine.

From launch, all versions come with a rear bed with bolt holes at various points so that custom accessories can be easily attached.

Speaking of which, Toyota has already consulted with more than 100 accessory manufacturers, so expect everything from sport bars to roller covers and camper toppers to be introduced shortly.

HiLux utes sold in Australia are all built in Thailand, which is world’s biggest market for mid-size utes and has racked up more than 2.7 million HiLux sales there since 2004.

The Champ will be manufactured alongside the current HiLux and Fortuner at the Samrong plant that has been making the best-selling Toyota ute since 1975.

It is not, however, a prospect for Australia at this stage.

“It’s not intended for Australian requirements,” Toyota sales and marketing boss Sean Hanley told carsales recently. “We’ve got our model line-up with HiLux and it’s just not a real good fit right now.

“So, within our model line-up we’re pretty set right now.”