The Toyota Hilux has returned to the Japanese car market following a 13-year hiatus.
The model returned to the brand’s home market last month, following demand from users. Around 9000 older models remain on Japan’s roads.
“While sales in Japan ended in 2004, there are still around 9000 owners who mainly use the Hilux for work,” the model’s chief engineer Masahiko Maeda says.
“Many people have called for its reintroduction, and we wanted to properly respond to their needs and those of similar customers.”
The Hilux is not an easy model to sell in Japan. It is considered a ‘class 1’ vehicle, requiring annual inspections and attracting higher expressway tolls.
Maeda says he “believes the Hilux is a vehicle that embodies the joy of owning something special, due in part to its dignified appearance, together with a toughness forged in the real world, and hopes the vehicle appeals to the on-the-go spirit of the baby boomers, a customer segment that wants to embrace an active lifestyle.”
The Japanese model Z grade Hilux receives a high specification grade, including a pre-collision system and lane departure alert. A 2.4-litre turbocharged diesel is standard, paired with a six-speed automatic with part time four-wheel drive.
