Known as the IMV 0 concept and originally expected to be named Stout, spy shots have now revealed a production-ready version of Toyota’s new baby Hilux bakkie bearing the Champ suffix. Here is what else is known ahead of its anticipated debut in Thailand.
Looking for a new or used Toyota? Find it here with CARmag.
South Africa may receive another Champ bakkie in the near future after the Japanese automaker had its open bed model spotted in the streets of Thailand. Considering it has been seen before as the IMV 0 as long ago as last year December, this may very well be the production-ready version which is expected to be introduced to the Thai market on the 27th of November according to Kurdistan Automotive Blog. The Champ title in the local bakkie market will be most commonly associated with the Rosslyn-built Nissan 1400 which served as a compact, single-cab model in the Nissan stables for several decades.
Related: Toyota to Debut New Hilux-Sized Bakkie at Japan Mobility Show
According to the page, the car was developed and engineered by a joint engineering team between Daihatsu and Toyota (TDEM) in collaboration with a team of engineers from Japan and Australia. The Champ bakkie as it will henceforth be known is built atop a body on frame chassis although not much else is known about its drivetrain. What is known is that it measures 5 300 mm in length, 1 785 mm in width, and 1 740 mm in height. While the standard cab accommodates two occupants, several configurations shared by Toyota appear capable of seating additional passengers. For comparison, a current-generation double-cab Hilux measures around 5 300 mm in length, 1 855 mm in width and 1 815 mm in height depending on the model.
Related: This Rangga Concept may be Toyota’s Baby Hilux/Stout Reboot
South Africa would be a suitable market for an affordable and utilitarian open bed model although no confirmation by Toyota South Africa Motors has been provided yet. It is also worth noting that in Thailand, the Champ moniker has also previously been featured on a Hilux with the Vigo Champ of the seventh-generation facelift model in 2012. For all we know, the Stout title may be stamped onto this diminutive Hilux for the local market, time will tell.
