Tough ride ahead for Toyota's Champ

The Toyota Hilux Vigo has been the top-selling 1-ton pickup truck for several years after it dethroned the popular Isuzu D-MAX many years ago.
But with the D-MAX, as well as the Ford Ranger and Mazda BT-50 to evolve into all-new models this year, Toyota needs to refresh its Vigo line-up in order to maintain competitiveness.
While many would consider the Hilux Vigo “Champ” as a minor-change model, Toyota said that there are so many changes that it could be considered as a “big minor-change”.
For example, the Toyota Hilux Vigo Champ D-Cab 3.0G Auto 4x4, priced at Bt981,000, boasts new styling that has been updated. The modern-looking multi-reflector halogen headlights blend in with the chrome front grille while the new front bumper with fog lights are sharp-looking and the redesigned overfenders contribute to its robust look. The air scoop for the intercooler has been relocated to the centre of the bonnet, and new 17-inch alloy wheels come with 265/65R17 tires. The chrome side-view mirrors now feature turning lights, while the new antenna is shorter and is positioned for improved reception. The rear end completes the “Champ” styling with redesigned tail lamps, third brake light and chrome bumper.
Inside the cockpit, the dashboard features Optitron meters as well as newly designed centre console. The MID (Multi Information Display) screen is also clearer and shows information such as exterior temperature, average fuel consumption, trip duration and distance. The four-spoke steering wheel is multi-function and features controls for the audio system. There is a DVD player with 6.1-inch screen, Bluetooth connectivity, USB and AUX inputs. A rearview video camera helps improve safety while reversing.
The power plant of the D-Cab 3.0G 4x4 is a 1KD-FTV 2,982cc commonrail direct injection 16-valve with turbocharger and intercooler capable of developing 163hp at 3,400rpm and 343Nm of torque at from 1,400-3,200rpm.
The figures are identical to the previous model, although Toyota says the engine has been improved for even better fuel efficiency, thanks to its “Diamond Tech” technology.
Toyota says the “Diamond Tech” technology includes precise fuel injection for every engine speed, due to the smart 32-bit ECU (Electronic Control Unit). The injectors come with “Diamond-Like Carbon Coating” that helps lower soot levels and prevent the injectors from clogging. This leads to longer fuel-injector life and remarkably improved fuel efficiency.
Too bad that Toyota does not have a claimed fuel economy figure (actually no Japanese auto-makers in Thailand provide fuel consumption or acceleration and top speed figures in their brochures or press kits) and test drives don’t give much opportunity to measure a vehicle’s fuel efficiency either.
The engine is mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission featuring gate-type shifter.
The Top Platform suspension system, with strong single-frame construction, comprises of double wishbones and coil springs up front along with leaf springs positioned above the axle to improve air circulation and stability, as well as diagonally mounted shock absorbers.
The suspension is able to absorb vibrations effectively, resulting in a comfortable ride, even while seated at the rear.
The steering is light, and provides a turning circle of 12.8 metres. The high ride height means that the Vigo 4x4 suffers from a good level of body roll, but then it’s the off-road performance that counts here.
The generous approach and departure angles give the Vigo good off-road capability, while the large amount of torque also gives it good climbing ability.
There are dual front airbags and vented front disc brakes, however the VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) option is not available this time.
Other safety features include the GOA safety structure, side impact beams, collapsible steering column, laminated windshield, third brake light, ABS brakes and three-point safety belts for four passengers (the fifth gets a two-point belt). There’s also an anti-theft system thrown into the package.
Toyota may have dominated the pickup market for several consecutive years now, but this year’s sales have already been passed by arch rival Isuzu, now with an all-new D-MAX, while other pickup-makers are also jumping in the race with new models. The Chevrolet Colorado has been launched, while the all-new Ford Ranger will come during the final quarter and the Mazda BT-50 will arrive early next year.
It’s true that the Hilux Vigo “Champ” comes with a large number of improvements over the outgoing model, but competition in the pickup market will be stronger than ever, and Toyota will have to throw in all its marketing resources to maintain its crown in the pickup market this year.

Toyota Hilux Vigo 3.0G 4x4 Double Cab Specifications

Engine: 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve commonrail diesel with turbocharger and intercooler
Displacement: 2,982cc
Compression ratio: 17.9:1
Bore and stroke: 96.0x103.0mm
Max output: 163ps/3,400rpm
Max torque: 343Nm/1,400-3,200prm
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Ratios: 2.804/1.531/1.000/0.705
Final drive ratio: 3.909

Suspension
Front: double wishbone, coil spring, stabilizer
Rear: leaf springs, diagonally mounted shock absorbers
Steering: powered rack-and-pinion
Turning radius: 6.4 metres
Brakes (f/r): ventilated discs/drums with LSPV, LTS and ABS
Wheels: 7.5Jx17 alloy
Tires: 265/65R17

Dimensions
Length: 5,260mm
Width: 1,835mm
Height: 1,860mm
Wheelbase: 3,085mm
Front/Rear track: 1,540mm/1,540mm
Fuel tank capacity: 76 litres
Weight: 1,730kgs

Price: Bt981,000
Distributor: Toyota Motor Thailand Co Ltd