The Toyota Hilux made a big impression on the Indian vehicle market. And, as predicted, it has become a success among off-road aficionados, thanks to its global reputation as an indomitable vehicle and Toyota’s dependable brand image. The Hilux has already entered the realm of customisation, with some Hilux owners personalising and changing it to make it even more hardcore than its factory counterpart. This is a substantially modified Toyota Hilux with additional components to make it a more serious go-anywhere vehicle.
The host of ‘Rolling Pistons’ introduces his audience to Pulkit Kaushik, a proud owner of a fully modified Toyota Hilux from Delhi, in a YouTube video. The video details all of the off-road spec pieces Pulkit chose for his Hilux, making it a vehicle fit for the most difficult terrain. The Hilux owner begins detailing the additions with two main components added to the Hilux – an aftermarket snorkel inspired by those created by Australia-based TJM and various underbody bash plates that protect vital mechanical components of the vehicle beneath the skin.
The customised Toyota Hilux in the video also gets off-road spec BF Goodrich tyres, which are widely regarded as the best in the industry. To accommodate these off-road standard tyres, which cost Rs 27,000 each tyre, the owner also replaced the stock diamond-cut alloy wheels with after-market Lenso Max 11 alloys, totaling Rs 85,000.
The modified cargo compartment at the back is the highlight of all the modifications or add-ons in the Toyota Hilux. The cargo deck includes a covered section with unique roll cages and a retractable table on the cage’s left side. On the ceiling of this enclosed area, there is also a 30W light with 30 distinct changeable colour options and mounts for a sand ladder, jerry cans, and a shovel. To protect the original paint of the deck’s surface, the surface of the deck lid is coated with a rubber LINEX coating.
Furthermore, the lower portion of the deck has a remote-controlled roller shutter installed by Thailand-based Hamer. The Hilux gets a foldable hard-shell tent with a foldable ladder on the ceiling of this enclosed space, which can accommodate three full-sized adults after being unzipped. This tent also has a built-in mattress and movable windows. The owner also intends to add a solar panel above the roof of the hard-shell cover, which will house the tent after it has been folded.
Apart from detailing his add-ons, the Hilux owner here also mentions some of the drawbacks he encountered when driving the Hilux. He grumbled about the amount of harsh plastics around the cabin, as well as the NVH levels. He also claims that for some, rear seat comfort might be a concern on longer trips.
