Toyota Hilux single cab: 8 factory-backed conversions

Toyota’s newly launched Hilux Custom Builds programme includes 8 factory-backed conversions for the popular single-cab bakkie. Let’s take a closer look…

There’s no question the Toyota Hilux single cab has proven itself to be a reliable workhorse. But customers who require their bakkie to be specifically equipped for commercial purposes have long had to rely on aftermarket conversions. Now, however, Toyota SA Motors has rolled out its Hilux Custom Builds programme.

Billed as “factory-backed alternatives” to aftermarket conversions, these items were designed by Toyota engineers and are delivered (and, indeed, can be financed) through the Japanese brand’s extensive dealer network. Crucially, the base bakkie’s standard 3-year/100 000 km vehicle warranty thus remains intact.

*Each conversion of the Hilux starts with a “flat-deck” single cab like this one. It’s powered by the brand’s venerable 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine.*

Each conversion starts with what Toyota SA Motors describes as a “flat-deck” Hilux single cab, powered by the familiar 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine. In 4×2 form, Toyota pairs the 110 kW motor with a 5-speed manual gearbox while restricting torque to 343 Nm. The 4×4 version upgrades to a 6-speed manual cog-swapper and the full complement of 400 Nm.

Note the conversions shown here are based on the outgoing 8th-generation Hilux. However, since Toyota will build the upcoming 9th iteration on the same IMV platform, we’d speculate these conversions will simply carry over to the new Hilux when it launches locally in 2026.

1. Steel Dropside

This basic steel dropside system includes 3-way functionality, offering what is effectively an unobstructed flat deck for maximum loading space. It is available for both the 4×2 and 4×4 derivatives.

2. Aluminium Dropside

Interestingly offered exclusively in the 4×2 configuration, Toyota also gives buyers the option of an aluminium (rather than steel) dropside set-up. From what we can tell, it offers precisely the same functionality as the steel version.

3. Cargo Rails

Need a loading area with more “height”? Well, the 4×2 derivative is available with a basic cargo-rail arrangement, complete with powder coating for what Toyota calls “long-term rust protection”.

4. Cargo Rails with Dropside

In addition, Toyota says its “durable” half-gate cargo rails are compatible with the aforementioned 3-way steel dropside system. The brand offers this combination for both the 4×2 and 4×4 variants.

5. Full Canopy with Dropside

This aluminium canopy is exclusive to the 4×2 configuration and features 5 lockable doors. It is effectively paired with the standard steel dropside set-up.

6. Field Technician Canopy

The basic field-technician canopy features lockable gullwing doors and 4 interior drawers, including both concealed compartments and open-partitioned sections. It is offered on the 4×2 derivative only.

7. Field Technician Canopy with Half-Dropside

Available for both the 4×2 and 4×4 configurations, this conversion adds a half-dropside set-up to the field-technician canopy mentioned above. There’s also the option of complementing this with a lid for the rear section.

8. Dry Box

At launch, the final conversion in the Hilux Custom Builds programme is a drybox for the 4×2 flat-deck bakkie. Fashioned from fibreglass, this add-on has a nose cone that Toyota claims “minimises drag” and “improves fuel efficiency”.

Find a Toyota Hilux single cab on Cars.co.za!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the main benefit of the Toyota Hilux Custom Builds programme?

A: The main benefit is that the conversions are factory-backed (designed by Toyota engineers and delivered through the dealer network), meaning the base vehicle’s standard 3-year/100 000 km warranty remains fully intact, unlike with non-approved aftermarket conversions.

Q: How many factory-backed conversions are available in the Hilux Custom Builds programme?

A: There are eight factory-backed conversions available for the Hilux single-cab bakkie at launch, including options like the Steel Dropside, Aluminium Dropside, Cargo Rails, various Canopies (Full, Field Technician), and the Dry Box.

Q: What engine specification is used as the base for all the Custom Builds?

A: Each conversion starts with a flat-deck Hilux single cab powered by the 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine. The 4×2 variant produces 110 kW and 343 Nm (paired with a 5-speed manual), while the 4×4 variant produces 110 kW and 400 Nm (paired with a 6-speed manual).