The new $13,000 Toyota Hilux Champ is built to last, but isn't available in America

The Toyota Hilux Champ is a cheap truck that’s throwback to simpler times.

It’s a pickup truck that strips away the fluff and focuses on what really matters: reliability, utility, and affordability.

Starting at just $13,000, it’s possibly the cheapest truck you can buy.

But there’s a massive catch.

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The Hilux Champ is Toyota’s answer to the growing demand for low-cost, multipurpose vehicles in emerging markets.

Built on the IMV 0 (IMV stands for ‘Innovative International Multi-Purpose Vehicle) platform, it’s a no-frills truck designed to be customized by its owner.

Toyota calls it ’70 percent’ finished, meaning buyers can add the remaining 30 percent to suit their specific needs.

This may be adding a flatbed for hauling goods, or a camper for weekend adventures.

Under the hood, the Hilux Champ offers a choice of three engines: a 2.0-liter gas, a 2.7-liter gas, or a 2.4-liter diesel.

These engines are paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, depending on the configuration.

The vehicle is available in both short and long-wheelbase versions, with rear-wheel drive as the standard option.

That said, if you’re looking for luxury, this is the wrong place.

The base model comes with manual windows, rubber floors, and a basic instrument cluster.

There’s no touchscreen, no leather seats, and no fancy driver assistance features.

But what it lacks in amenities, it makes up for with its customizability.

Toyota has partnered with over 100 accessory manufacturers to offer a wide range of modifications.

Whether you’re looking to convert your vehicle into a food stall, a mobile workshop, or a camping rig, the Hilux Champ can be tailored to suit your needs.

Unfortunately, despite its appeal, the Hilux Champ isn’t available in the US, and this is unlikely to change.

This is mainly due to safety and emissions regulations.

This affordable truck does not meet the stringent safety standards in the US, and importing it would require costly modifications and testing.

The truck’s basic features might not align with American consumers’ expectations for pickup trucks either.

After all, while it may be the cheapest truck you can buy, it probably can’t tow a 7,000-pound camper for 381 miles, like the Tesla Cybertruck.

While the Hilux Champ may not be available in the US, it offers a glimpse into a future where vehicles are more customizable and affordable.

As carmakers look for ways to reduce costs while meeting the needs of a diverse customer base, Toyota’s cheapest truck could serve as a model for future vehicles.

In the meantime, if you’re in Thailand, or anther market where the Hilux Champ is sold, you can get your hands on one for around $13,000.

For the rest of us, we’ll have to make do with spending an absurd amount of money on tires on our Tesla Cybertruck.

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