Heavily modified Toyota Hilux pick up truck is an off-road beast [Video]

Japanese car maker Toyota launched its world-famous Hilux pickup truck in India. The SUV became an instant hit among off-road enthusiasts. In no time, we started seeing videos and images of people modifying the Hilux. As the Hilux is sold in other markets, there’s a variety of options available for modifying this SUV. While the enthusiast community is pleased that Toyota launched the Hilux, the steep pricing of the SUV is actually a reason why we cannot spot it on the road very often. Here, we have an extensively modified Hilux from Kerala that looks like an off-road beast.

The video was uploaded by Life Is Simple on their YouTube channel. When the video was recorded and posted, the Kerala MVD was not allowing people to register the Hilux as a private vehicle. Starting with the front, the Toyota Hilux is outfitted with an off-road bumper from RAD. In conjunction with the bumper, the bonnet, fenders, and front grille underwent replacement. The fenders now boast increased width, while the bonnet is larger than its stock version and features a couple of scoops.

The grille sports a complete blackout and integrates amber lights. Positioned behind it is an orange LED light bar. At the SUV’s front, shackles and a heavy-duty electric winch have been installed. Furthermore, the bumper is equipped with aftermarket LED fog lamps and front sensors. These modifications collectively enhance the Hilux’s frontal appearance, rendering it notably more aggressive. Notably, the bumper has augmented the SUV’s approach angle.

Turning to the side profile, the original alloy wheels on this SUV have been swapped out for aftermarket off-road specification wheels. The tires wrapped around these wheels are 20 inches in size and tailored for extreme conditions. The standard Outside Rear View Mirror (ORVM) on this truck has been replaced with a larger variant. The SUV’s height has been elevated courtesy of a 7-inch lift kit. Additionally, the SUV’s suspension setup has been overhauled to cater to off-road demands.

Moving to the rear, a noticeable addition is the Option brand roll bar. This SUV features an electronic shutter for its loading bay, controllable via remote. To aid night usage, a powerful LED light has been strategically installed. Understanding the significance of illumination during off-roading, auxiliary lamps adorn both the bonnet and the car’s roof, ensuring clear visibility of tracks and obstacles, enabling safer driving.

The original tail lamps have been swapped out for aftermarket smoked LED units, each equipped with a cover. Further enhancing its off-road capabilities, the rear bumper has been replaced with a sturdy metal off-road unit. Additionally, the SUV boasts an electronically retractable side step, significantly facilitating entry and exit.

The Hilux is built as a special-purpose vehicle. The truck will be mostly operated in the mountains and will work alongside a helicopter. The graphics on the side of the SUV depict an Airbus H-Series helicopter for the same reason. The video mentions that the owner of this SUV bought the truck for Rs 52 lakh. The aftermarket parts used on this SUV were mostly imported from Thailand and the USA, increasing the cost of modifications. The overall cost of modification on this SUV is said to be around Rs 50 lakh.