Toyota Hilux (Fortuner-based pick-up) spotted on Indian roads

Before readers jump to the conclusion that Toyota is finally introducing the Hilux in India, note that the pick-up features a Nepalese registration plate, so it's likely to be driven down from Nepal by a private owner.

In Nepal, the new Toyota Hilux is only sold with the 2.8 GD turbodiesel engine that also powers the Toyota Fortuner, and Innova Crysta sold in India. It produces 130 kW and 420 Nm of peak torque and is paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. The model is imported from the Thai plant, a global sourcing point for the pickup, which began production of the new generation model in mid-2015.

Rather than an outright commercial vehicle, the Hilux is pitched as a lifestyle pick-up truck similar to the Isuzu D-Max in India, hence why it's only available in the top-end double-cab version.

Lifestyle pick-up trucks are a niche in the Indian market, with Isuzu, Mahindra and Tata Motors producing models locally primarily for exports. Despite the strong presence of manufacturers like Nissan, Ford, Toyota and Chevrolet in the global pick-up market, none appear to have plans to enter this segment in India.