I was watching some videos about the Hilux Champ, and it seems like the perfect work truck for me. I don’t want to spend $60k on a truck, or even $30k. It’s crazy how many vehicles sit unsold at $80k+ while affordable work trucks like this don’t seem to be an option. I’d happily pay $14k for a new, no-frills truck if Toyota sold them here. But it seems like emissions regulations would prevent it from being sold in the US. Is that correct?
If it came to the US, the 25% chicken tax would push the price to at least $17k. Add the cost of making the engine emissions-compliant, crash testing, and required safety equipment, and you’re probably looking at $20k or more. At that price, it competes with better-equipped options like the Maverick or Santa Cruz. Toyota might bring a budget truck to the US, but it’s unlikely to be the Hilux Champ.
@Zadie
How does a 1200hp Dodge Demon pass emissions when a small Japanese truck with a 2.0L engine can’t?
Kade said:
@Zadie
How does a 1200hp Dodge Demon pass emissions when a small Japanese truck with a 2.0L engine can’t?
Bringing over Japanese trucks like the Hilux would kill the sales of Ford, Ram, and Chevy trucks. They say it’s emissions, but it’s really about protecting US automakers.
Kade said:
@Zadie
How does a 1200hp Dodge Demon pass emissions when a small Japanese truck with a 2.0L engine can’t?
Companies like FCA pay fines for non-compliance with emissions. The costs get passed to customers, but even they are moving toward EVs because it’s catching up to them. Small engines without emissions-reduction equipment can be worse polluters than larger ones with modern technology.
Kade said:
@Zadie
How does a 1200hp Dodge Demon pass emissions when a small Japanese truck with a 2.0L engine can’t?
They probably paid off the right people.
@Zadie
Thanks for explaining. It’s frustrating that practical trucks like this aren’t available here.
@Jason
Leaf spring suspension isn’t really a downside. Most trucks have used it forever.
@Jason
I’d still buy it for $13k, throw a flatbed on it, and get to work.
I run a landscaping business, and this is exactly the kind of affordable truck we need. Even a base Ford Ranger starts at $35k. It’s ridiculous.
Palmer said:
I run a landscaping business, and this is exactly the kind of affordable truck we need. Even a base Ford Ranger starts at $35k. It’s ridiculous.
The US market is begging for a cheap truck, but emissions and taxes keep getting in the way.
Regulations are part of the problem. Big companies can afford to comply, but smaller players or imports can’t compete.
Why not manufacture it domestically in the US? That would bypass the chicken tax entirely.
This is the kind of straightforward truck we need—simple, affordable, and functional. I don’t need all the extras that just make modern trucks overly complicated.
Do we know which countries get the Hilux Champ?
Sorrell said:
Do we know which countries get the Hilux Champ?
It’s available in Thailand and most of Southeast Asia.
Even if it cost $20k here, it would be worth it for a basic, reliable truck.
I’d buy one, put a teardrop camper on it, and upgrade the suspension for off-road adventures.