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With our inner five-year olds never that far from the surface, Toyota has decided on a little bit of what can only be described as 'fan service' by creating a concept based on the HiLux pickup that references the legendary Tonka Toys brand.
Described as a "full-size dream toy for adults" (yes, please...) the HiLux Tonka Concept has been built to celebrate two anniversaries - 2017 marks the 70th birthday or Tonka, and the 80th year since Toyota's incorporation.
Underneath all the styling, the Tonka concept is based on a top-spec HiLux SR5 Double-Cab with the 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel engine, but Toyota's team has added a 150mm increase in ground clearance, heavy-duty suspension, 35-inch tyres, a massive front nudge bar (which is nonetheless claimed to be compatible with the car's safety systems), a carbon-fibre bonnet and dramatic air intakes and scoops.
For night off-roading, there's a huge set of LED spotlights incorporated into the roll-over bar and the roof pod, and unlike the normal stick-on-plastic protection plates of school-run SUVs, the HiLux Tonka gets a 6mm-thick alloy protection plate to keep its sump from being destroyed on a rock.
Behind the cabin, almost everything has been changed. The transformation includes a new tailgate, also wrapped in carbon fibre, that incorporates an integrated spoiler and two air vents for optimal airflow. A durable, lightweight strap rather than a handle releases the tailgate. Inside the load bay, a removable tubular frame keeps all the gear in place, including diesel fuel cans, while storage boxes house the recovery gear needed for extreme off-road driving. A fire extinguisher, axe, shovel and high-lift jack are also fitted.
Product design chief Nicolas Hogios said the extreme style and capability of the HiLux Tonka Concept would capture the imagination of kids and adults alike.
"We have taken Tonka out of the sand pit and reinvented HiLux from top to bottom and from nose to tail," Mr Hogios said. "Inspired by the Tonka trucks that kids play with in their backyards, the HiLux Tonka Concept goes way beyond the already hugely capable abilities of HiLux to traverse rocks and other rugged terrain. The HiLux Tonka Concept is dramatic evidence that our local team loves to have fun, we're keen to explore new ideas and we're always looking to push the boundaries of what's possible."