The compact pickup market in South America is booming, and toyotaone of the leading brands in the automotive sector, seems ready to enter this competitive segment.
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Although the company has kept the details of its new truck under wraps, the information that has emerged so far suggests that this model promises to challenge rivals such as the Chevrolet Montana, the Renault Oroch and the Ford Maverick.
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With significant investment in Brazil and a projected launch date for 2027Toyota’s new pick-up could change the rules of the game in the region.
Manufacturing in Brazil: a key center for Toyota
Toyota has announced an investment of more than $2.2 billion dollars in Brazil until 2030which underlines the importance of this country in its production strategy.
This investment It is not only intended for the manufacture of the Yaris Cross and the transfer of the production of the Corolla to Sorocababut also to the development of new models such as the long-awaited compact pick-up.
Although Toyota has not officially confirmed this project, the rumors are becoming stronger, especially after it was discussed in meetings with Brazilian dealers.
Based on the TNGA platform
The new truck is expected to use the TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform, the same one that serves as the basis for successful models such as the Corolla and Corolla Cross.
This architecture would allow Toyota to develop a versatile and efficient vehicleadapted to the needs of the South American market. In addition, the use of this platform could bring technological and design improvements that would benefit other models of the brand.
The “EPU” conceptual prototype, presented by Toyota in 2023 in Japan, could offer clues about the design of the future pick-up. With a length of 5,070 mm, the EPU falls between the Ram 1000 and the Ford Maverick in terms of dimensionswhich would position it comfortably in the segment.
Although the final specifications have not been confirmed, it is likely that Toyota will maintain a stylized and aerodynamic design, characteristic of its latest models.
Electrified engines: a bet on the future
One of the most exciting aspects of the new Toyota pick-up is its engine. The truck will reportedly be electrified, which could include conventional, plug-in hybrid, and even fully electric versions.
This not only reinforces Toyota’s commitment to sustainability, but also positions it as an innovative option compared to its competitors.
Among the mechanical options that are speculated, the Prius’ hybrid powertrain stands out, with a power of 148 horsepower.
However, Rumors also point to a configuration based on the RAV4’s 2.5-liter engine, which in its PHEV (plug-in hybrid) version reaches 298 horsepower and offers all-wheel drive. This last option would be especially attractive to consumers looking for a robust and efficient vehicle.
A growing segment
The compact pick-up segment has experienced significant growth in recent years in South America, driven by demand for versatile vehicles that combine loading capacity and efficiency.
Models like the Chevrolet Montana and the Renault Oroch have demonstrated the potential of this market, and Toyota seems ready to capitalize on this trend with a proposal of its own.
In addition to satisfying the needs of consumers, the new pick-up could open the door to improvements in other models of the brand.
The adoption of advanced technologies and electrified powertrains could also benefit to the Corolla and the Corolla Crossfurther strengthening Toyota’s presence in the regional market.
Release date and expectations
Although the official launch of the pick-up is scheduled for 2027the anticipation is already palpable. Toyota has a well-established reputation in the pick-up segment, thanks to the success of models such as the Hilux.
The new compact van has the potential to replicate this success, offering a combination of technology, efficiency and design that could appeal to a wide range of consumers.
Toyota’s future compact pick-up represents a strategic bet for the brand in South America. Now we just have to wait for the launch to see how it is positioned against its competitors, but everything indicates that the Japanese brand has a promising project on its hands.