Among the big trucks line up; Toyota Hilux is one of the beloved ones. This big buddy has been around for several years. Yet this pickup goes on the fame path. Now the Artic Trucks is going to do some modifications on this Toyota to make it more and more impressive.
The latest version of Hilux is now in the Arctic Trucks to experience a whole new surgery on it. This is Toyota-backed AT35 model which has the 2.8-liter engine is going to have Invincible X trim level and after that, more new trims to make it more suitable for an off-road.
As its going to climb up the rocks, the ground clearance is increased about 65 millimeters and approach and departure angles jump by nine and three degrees, respectively. For having the target Hight, its necessary to tweak the Hilux’s frame and inner arches, while the bodywork also had to go through some changes. Higher means bigger Tires. Artic Trucks provides its own set of 17-inch wheels with chunky 35-inch BFGoodrich KO2 All-Terrain tires to further enhance the reputable pickup’s go-anywhere capabilities.
The second challenge is the suspension. Toyota Hilux AT53 has Bilstein suspension with custom springs and dampers at the front which is upgraded and a revised anti-roll bar and modified rear dampers with extended shackles. This Hilux has also an additional 40 mm (1.6 in) front and 20 mm (0.8 in) of suspension lift compared to the standard Toyota variant. Moreover, the improved front and rear differentials brought better torque delivery.
There are also more ways to distinguish a modified AT35 and the Original AT35. rear height bar and flare package for the front and rear wings are there thanks to the 30 years anniversary. The out put of the 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine is 201 hp and also the 500 Nm of Torque at 1,600 rpm.
Some rumors also say the other version of Toyota Hilux is in the Gazoo Racing to take on the Ford Ranger Raptor. But what we are certain about it is, Toyota’s New Zealand division has developed its own rugged Hilux, Mako.
The cost of 2021 Toyota Hilux AT35 conversion is about $25,700 and available in UK.