We need this Toyota Hilux Champ motorhome in NZ

Jet Sanchez
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This new Toyota motorhome is unfortunately exclusive to the Thai market.

This new Toyota motorhome is unfortunately exclusive to the Thai market.

The Toyota Hilux Champ Motorhome has been generating buzz in Southeast Asia, offering a compact yet robust camping solution for enthusiasts who seek an affordable and reliable adventure vehicle.

Unfortunately, this innovative camper isn't making its way to New Zealand or other Western markets anytime soon. This omission leaves outdoor enthusiasts in other regions longing for an accessible and versatile camper option.

Rugged and compact camper

Carryboy Toyota Hilux Champ Motorhome

The Toyota Hilux Champ, starting at around $22,400 in Thailand, is designed as an ultra-basic yet highly functional compact ute. Its bare-bones design is aimed at being a cost-effective platform, primarily for the ASEAN markets.

The Carryboy Hilux Champ Motorhome conversion is where this humble ute transforms into an enticing, fully functional camper. Priced at approximately $97,200 when fully kitted out, this camper conversion offers a balance of rugged charm and practical amenities.

It also brings a touch of luxury to the compact ute, providing features like a sleeper dinette, an enclosed toilet and even a flip-open clear roof panel known as the Skyview.

Innovative features

Carryboy Toyota Hilux Champ Motorhome

Carryboy, a Thai upfitter, has successfully crafted a motorhome layout that maximises the interior space of the midsize Hilux Champ.

Despite its compact size, the motorhome boasts a generous interior that can accommodate up to six occupants. It includes a dinette area that doubles as a sleeping space, a couch, a fully enclosed toilet with a shower and overhead airline-style compartments for efficient storage.

Carryboy Toyota Hilux Champ Motorhome

The Hilux Champ Motorhome carries 120L of fresh water and has 9600Wh of battery capacity, showcasing its self-sufficiency for extended trips. The camper is equipped with a 500W solar roof, an electric awning and deployable steps, enhancing its off-grid capabilities.

Additionally, the built-in 3300W generator ensures that power needs are met even in remote locations. Optional extras, such as an air conditioner, slide-out kitchen and upgraded battery capacity of up to 28,800Wh, make this compact camper highly adaptable to various camping scenarios.

A missed opportunity for other markets?

Carryboy Toyota Hilux Champ Motorhome

While the Carryboy Hilux Champ Motorhome is sold through Toyota dealerships in Thailand, its appeal extends beyond the region.

Many enthusiasts in markets like New Zealand and North America yearn for such an affordable and capable compact camper. Compared with something like the VW California Ocean campervan and its $170k+ starting price, this vehicle seems like a proper steal.

However, with its 2.4-litre diesel engine and ASEAN-focused design, the Hilux Champ is unlikely to meet the stringent regulations and market demands of these regions.

Despite this, its availability raises the question of whether Toyota might explore similar compact camper options for a global audience in the future.

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