Toyota's Budget-Friendly 7-Seater SUV Is A Great Idea

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The Toyota Hilux Champ, known as the Hilux Rangga in Indonesia, is renowned for its adaptability. The latest innovation is a body style transformation from a pickup truck into a seven-seater SUV.

An Indonesian company, New Armada, specializing in bus bodywork, has undertaken this conversion. However, Toyota Astra Motor, the official distributor in Indonesia, will sell the Hilux Rangga SUV as a complete vehicle. Initially showcased as a prototype in October, the production version has been recently unveiled, confirming its availability for early 2025.

Toyota Hilux Champ

While the front section remains unchanged from the pickup, the rear portion has undergone a complete redesign. The new tail section mirrors the boxy design of the truck, aiming for an OEM appearance. This includes the rear doors, complex side windows, and the large tailgate with "Rangga" lettering. The addition of a taller roof with roof rails and heavy-duty plastic cladding on the lower body further enhances the SUV's rugged look. Black alloy wheels with six spokes complete the transformation.

The interior features a 2+3+2 seating configuration, with leather-like upholstery and reclining functionality. Despite the generous footprint, the boot space behind the third row appears limited.

Toyota

The Hilux Rangga SUV is built on a cheaper version of the IMV ladder-frame chassis, shared with the standard Hilux and the Fortuner SUV. Power options include a 2.0-liter gasoline engine producing 137 hp or a 2.4-liter turbodiesel engine generating 148 hp. Transmission choices include a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic, with rear-wheel drive.

The starting price for the gasoline manual version is expected to be under $25,000. In comparison, the base Hilux Rangga pickup costs $11,800, and the Fortuner SUV starts at $35,800. It remains uncertain whether Toyota plans to introduce the Rangga SUV in other markets.

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