Launched in late 2022, the Hilux Champ was initially previewed as the IMV 0 concept before hitting production in 2023. This no-frills pickup is designed to be highly customizable, making it suitable for a variety of business applications, from transporting goods to serving as a base for utility services. Depending on the market, the Hilux Champ also carries different names, including the Hilux Rangga, Hilux Tamaraw, and Hilux Stout. Despite its affordable price tag, the Hilux Champ is built with the same rugged reliability that has made Toyota's Hilux line a favorite among buyers around the world.

The base Hilux Champ features a 2.4-liter turbodiesel engine that produces 148 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a manual transmission, and power is sent to the rear wheels, which is ideal for light-duty hauling and everyday tasks. However, the race-ready version takes things up a notch.

While the standard Hilux Champ is all about affordability and practicality, the version modified by Toyota Gazoo Racing Team Thailand is designed for speed and performance. The racing truck retains the simplicity of its production counterpart but adds a series of modifications to make it suitable for competitive motorsport.

Under the hood, the 2.4-liter turbodiesel engine has been tuned to deliver even more power than the standard version, though Toyota has yet to disclose the exact figures. What is clear is that the truck is far more powerful than its street-going sibling, allowing it to compete with rivals in the Super Pickup series. These include popular models like the Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi Triton, and the Isuzu D-Max (which is also sold as the Mazda BT-50 in some markets).

Aesthetically, the race version of the Hilux Champ is far from its humble origins. The truck features a beefy body kit, complete with wide fender flares and a large rear wing, giving it a much more aggressive look. A lowered ride height helps improve handling and stability on the track, while a massive intercooler is installed to ensure the engine stays cool under the stress of high-performance driving. The body kit and aerodynamic elements, such as the front splitter, are all aimed at improving the truck’s performance on the track, even though the Hilux’s boxy shape is far from the sleek profiles of typical race cars.

The Hilux Champ’s transformation into a racing machine underscores the idea that with the right modifications, nearly any vehicle can be adapted for motorsport. The truck may have been designed with simplicity and affordability in mind, but Toyota Gazoo Racing has shown that even a budget-friendly pickup can be a capable contender on the track. The Hilux Champ’s ability to go from a basic workhorse to a race-ready vehicle highlights the versatility of Toyota's engineering, as well as its commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

With its strong ladder-frame chassis and focus on functionality, the Hilux Champ serves as a testament to Toyota’s ingenuity. Despite being a stripped-down truck designed for the masses, it’s clear that with the right modifications, this unassuming vehicle can punch well above its weight in the world of motorsport.

The modified Hilux Champ is set to compete against some heavy-hitters in the Super Pickup series. Rivals like the Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi Triton, and Isuzu D-Max are all known for their performance in various markets. These trucks are typically more expensive and feature more advanced technology and styling. However, Toyota’s approach with the Hilux Champ is a bold one—showing that a vehicle built with simplicity and affordability can be competitive in a racing environment.

In conclusion, Toyota's decision to race the Hilux Champ proves that even the most affordable vehicles can have a place in the motorsport world. With the right modifications, this seemingly humble pickup has the potential to challenge some of the most established names in racing. It’s a thrilling development for fans of the Hilux and motorsports enthusiasts alike, proving once again that Toyota's commitment to performance extends well beyond luxury sports cars and into the world of everyday vehicles.