Arctic Trucks Beefs Up The Toyota Hilux Pickup With A Rugged Makeover

Arctic Trucks has transformed the new Toyota Hilux into an even more hardcore off-roader with its AT35 kit.

Based on the Invincible X Double Cab variant of the pickup truck, the conversion includes visual and mechanical upgrades, and is priced at £18,780 ($25,610), excluding VAT, over the recommended retail price of the vehicle, which starts at £38,975 ($53,149) in the UK.

The new Hilux AT35 rides 65 mm (2.6 in) higher than the stock model and has improved approach and departure angles by 9 and 3 degrees respectively. The frame was reengineered, and it features performance suspension signed by Arctic Trucks and Bilstein, retuned front and rear differentials for optimized drivability and torque, and 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich KO2 A/T tires.

The Arctic Trucks fender flares, extended side steps, ‘AT35’ badging and ‘30th Anniversary’ decal contribute to the makeover. Additionally, the Hilux can be ordered with full underbody protection, grille-mounted light bar, low-profile load cover, 12-volt performance compressor in the engine compartment, BFGoodrich KM3 mud-terrain tires, and on-board inflation/deflation kit.

Power is still supplied by a 2.8-liter diesel engine, which produces 204 PS (201 HP / 150 kW) at 3,000-3,400 rpm and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque from 1,600 to 2,800 rpm, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive. The towing capacity is uncompromised, but a 43 kg (95 lbs) increase in payload has been noted.

All converted vehicles are accompanied by an individual Arctic Trucks certificate of authenticity, and since the upgrades are carried out with Toyota’s approval and sold through their dealer network, they do not affect the 5-year/100,000-mile (≃ 160,000-km) warranty.