The Hilux Champ was launched in 2023 as a low-cost pickup truck for the Asian market. However, when it came to racing, Toyota changed a series of customizations, turning the low-cost car into a unique racing car for the Super Pickup championship.
According to posts by Toyota Gazoo Racing Team Thailand, the truck was first tested in May. A more improved version then returned to the track in July and August, facing off against heavyweights like the Isuzu D-Max, Mitsubishi Triton, and Ford Ranger.
By regulation, only single-cab rear-wheel drive trucks with diesel powertrains are allowed to compete in the Super Pickup Championship, so the first Toyota GR Hilux Champ was fitted with a custom bodykit to meet these requirements.
The front bumper has been deepened and features a splitter. It also gets a larger cooling air intake and a new grille, allowing air to flow more easily over the hood. The Hilux Champ has been upgraded with racing wheels and bolt-on fender extensions, while the rear gets a rear spoiler and a large diffuser.
Under the hood is an upgraded version of Toyota’s 2.4-liter turbodiesel engine, now with more power than the standard 148 hp (110 kW/150 PS). A host of new upgrades include new turbochargers, larger intercoolers, a custom exhaust system and a remapped fuel system. With its boxy proportions and body-colored aerodynamics, the Champ looks more Transformer than budget pickup.
The Toyota Hilux Champ is not the only modified race car from Toyota Gazoo Racing Team Thailand. Their social media channels regularly feature upgraded race versions of the Yaris, Yaris Cross, Corolla sedan, Hilux and GR Supra models in Thai specifications.
