Toyota Compresses Its Hilux Champion Into a Compact Wheelbase | Carscoops
The popular Hilux Champ pickup has undergone a downsizing, resulting in a version that prioritizes agility.
10 hours ago
by Thanos Pappas
The Hilux Champ lineup now includes the Super Short Wheelbase trim, which measures 178 inches in length.
Although it is more compact, the rear bed is longer than that of most dual-cab trucks.
With a starting price of $19,000, it is the most expensive Hilux Champ available in Thailand.
The allure of a small, practical, and budget-friendly pickup comes from its ability to maximize utility, a principle the Toyota Hilux Champ has embraced since its launch in 2023. Featuring a unique modular design and reasonable pricing, it quickly garnered a dedicated fanbase. Toyota is now expanding its range with the most compact variant yet, targeting those who prioritize maneuverability.
More: Toyota Hilux Champ Evolves Into A Seven-Seater SUV
Dubbed the Super Short Wheelbase or Short SWB, it measures 4,520 mm (178 inches) in length and has a wheelbase of 2,580 mm (101.6 inches). This makes it 450 mm (17.7 inches) shorter than the standard SWB and 780 mm (30.7 inches) shorter than the long-wheelbase (LWB) version.
More Compact, More Agile
Other measurements remain largely the same, including the truck's recognizable front end. However, its handling is significantly improved. The shorter wheelbase enables a turning radius of 4.7 m (15.4 feet), which is notably sharper than the 4.9 m (16.1 feet) and 5.4 m (17.7 feet) of its larger counterparts.
Despite its smaller size, the single-cab configuration offers sufficient space for a rear bed that is 1,867 mm (73.5 inches) long. This exceeds the standard length of most dual-cab midsize trucks, but it cannot compete with the 2,647 mm (104.2 inches) rear bed of the Hilux Champ LWB.
Toyota Hilux Champ Super SWB
The Super SWB is available in a single trim level called the “Attractive Package.” Though it is modestly equipped, it features more amenities than the basic Hilux Champ. Externally, it is characterized by LED headlights, black trim accents along the sides, an unpainted bumper, and 14-inch black steel wheels.
More: Toyota GR Transforms The Humble Hilux Champ Into A Track Beast
Inside, the cabin follows a simple layout: black upholstery accented with orange, no infotainment screen, and basic practical features. These include power mirrors and windows, manual seat adjustments, air conditioning, two speakers, a USB Type-C port, and a single sunshade. The safety technology is straightforward, with ABS, EBD, dual airbags, and Forward Collision Warning.
The engine is a familiar 2.4-liter turbodiesel that delivers 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS) and 343 Nm (253 lb-ft) of torque. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. The pickup is built on a ladder-frame chassis, streamlined from the larger Hilux while retaining its strength.
The Most Expensive Champ
In Thailand, the Hilux Champ Super SWB Attractive Package starts at ฿615,000 ($19,000). Interestingly, this makes it the priciest variant in the lineup, surpassing the longer SWB version that starts at ฿602,000 ($18,600).
More: New Toyota Hilux Secrets Surface Ahead of Next-Gen Release
On the more economical side, the least expensive Hilux Champ remains the MT Chassis & Cab LWB, starting at ฿519,000 ($16,000). For context, the standard Hilux Revo single cab begins at ฿584,000 ($18,000).
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Toyota Compresses Its Hilux Champion Into a Compact Wheelbase | Carscoops
The well-known Hilux Champ pickup has been reduced in size, and this compact model focuses on maneuverability.