In the vibrant world of automotive customization, few transformations capture attention quite like the recent project from Icon Cars in Thailand. They’ve taken the reliable Toyota Hilux, a beloved mid-size pickup, and turned it into a striking lookalike of the full-size Tundra. This bold move not only showcases the creativity of the Thai aftermarket scene but also highlights the growing trend of personalizing vehicles to reflect individual tastes and preferences.
What Makes This Transformation Stand Out?
The transformation is nothing short of impressive. Icon Cars has managed to swap out most of the Hilux’s exterior components while keeping the cabin and door structure intact. This means that the core of the vehicle remains unchanged, allowing for a seamless integration of the new parts. The conversion kit is designed for both the seventh-generation Hilux Vigo and the eighth-generation Hilux Revo, specifically models built after 2012. This flexibility means that a wide range of Hilux owners can partake in this exciting upgrade.
One of the most striking features of this conversion is the front end, which boasts a massive grille that mirrors the Tundra’s bold aesthetic. The rear end also receives a makeover, complete with a sculpted tailgate and modern LED lighting, ensuring that the vehicle maintains a cohesive look from front to back. However, a keen eye will notice that the middle portion of the Hilux—such as the doors, mirrors, and roof—remains untouched, which adds a unique twist to the overall design.
How Does It Compare to the Original?
When you stack the Tundra against the Hilux, the size difference is quite pronounced. The Tundra stretches up to 252.5 inches (6,414 mm), while the Hilux measures around 209.6 inches (5,325 mm). This significant difference in dimensions makes the conversion a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. Icon Cars has cleverly resized and reworked components like headlights and taillights to fit the smaller Hilux body, which is no small feat.
The profile view of the modified Hilux might give away its origins, with flared fenders and proportions that hint at its mid-size roots. Nevertheless, the overall stance, enhanced by aftermarket wheels and a suspension lift, gives it a more aggressive look than any standard Hilux variant, including the sporty GR Sport model.
What About Performance?
While the aesthetic upgrades are impressive, the performance aspect remains grounded in the Hilux’s original specifications. Under the hood, you’ll find the standard 2.8-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, which delivers solid performance but lacks the muscle of the Tundra’s twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6. This means that while the modified Hilux looks the part, it doesn’t quite pack the same punch as its larger counterpart.
Pricing and Availability
For those interested in making this transformation a reality, Icon Cars has priced the Tundra body kit for the Hilux Vigo and Revo starting at around ฿350,000 (approximately $10,700). This price doesn’t include larger wheels or any suspension upgrades, which can add to the overall cost. For context, a new Toyota Hilux in Thailand ranges from ฿584,000 to ฿1,509,000 (roughly $17,900 to $46,200), depending on the trim and features.
This isn’t the first time a Tundra-inspired kit has been offered. Japanese tuner GMG Double Eight previously introduced a simpler version, but Icon Cars’ approach is far more comprehensive and visually striking.
The big takeaway? Customizing your vehicle isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about expressing your individuality. Whether you’re in Thailand or elsewhere, consider how a few thoughtful modifications can transform your ride into something that truly reflects who you are. So, if you’re feeling inspired, why not start with one small change this week? You might just find that it makes a world of difference by the end of the month.