The Ultimate HiLux Build: Series Overview
There’s a moment every 4WD enthusiast knows: standing in front of their brand-new ute, staring at all that untouched potential, and asking: what could this become? That’s exactly where we started with our biggest build yet. So we’ve decided, we’re going to go all out and build Australia’s Ultimate Toyota HiLux. Series Overview The Project: […]
There’s a moment every 4WD enthusiast knows: standing in front of their brand-new ute, staring at all that untouched potential, and asking: what could this become?
That’s exactly where we started with our biggest build yet. So we’ve decided, we’re going to go all out and build Australia’s Ultimate Toyota HiLux.
Series Overview
The Project: A Blank Canvas With Serious Potential
For this series, we picked up a brand-new 2026 SR5 N90 Toyota HiLux – one of the most popular dual-cab utes on Australian roads, and for good reason. Straight off the showroom floor, the SR5 brings a strong factory foundation to the table: solid load capacity, a proven drivetrain, and a tub shape that’s ready to take on a full accessory build.
In other words, it’s the perfect base for something special.
The Vision: Australia’s Ultimate Touring and 4WD Ute
Our goal with this build isn’t small. We’re aiming to transform this HiLux into a complete package, front-to-back, top-to-bottom. With the best accessories that the industry has to offer, think premium bull bars, upgraded suspsension, purpose-built tyres and wheels, lighting, storage and touring essentials, all working together rather than being bolted on as an afterthought.
In the meantime, while we go through the process, we didn’t want to leave the HiLux tub uncovered and unprotected, so we opted to put the 100% Australian manufactured roll top on it. A great feature of this roller shutter was that we could retain the SR5 sports bar on it, so it meant it wouldn’t take away from the ute before we’ve started making upgrades to it. As the series progresses, we will be changing this cover depending on what we end up wanting out of
What Makes This Series Different
This isn’t just our build, it’s the community’s build.
Throughout the series, we’ll be featuring some of the industry’s most respected and innovative brands, and many of them will be chosen by you. Your feedback, suggestions, and votes will directly influence the products, accessories, and upgrades that make it onto this vehicle. If you’ve ever wanted a say in how the “ultimate” HiLux comes together, this is your chance.
Who This Series Is For
This series is for the HiLux owner mapping out their own dream build, the 4WD enthusiast after inspiration and anyone who just loves watching a great vehicle get even better. Every modification in this series is being carefully considered – not just for looks, but for how it performs once the tar runs out.
Episode 1: Where It All Begins
Episode 1 kicks the series off by introducing the project vehicle and revealing the vision behind the build.
Meet the Project Vehicle
In this episode, we walk through why this HiLux was the right choice as a base, and give a first look at the direction the build is heading.
Protecting the Tub From Day One
While we work through the early stages of the build, we didn’t want to leave the tub exposed to theft or the weather. So before anything else went on, we secured it with the HSP electric roller cover — keeping gear safe and the tub protected while the rest of the transformation takes shape around it.
What’s in Episode 1
- Introducing the project vehicle
- Revealing the vision for the build
- A look at what’s coming throughout the series
- The first steps toward creating Australia’s Ultimate Toyota HiLux
Get Involved
We want to know: which brands, products, or upgrades would you like to see featured on the build? Drop your suggestions in the comments. This build is being shaped by the community, and that means your input actually matters.
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