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  The Hilux is the only Ute ever to claim the title of Australia’s most popular vehicle. Photo Gallery

Toyota?s HiLux was the best selling vehicle in Australia last month - it?s third win in three years.

The only Ute ever to claim the title of Australia’s most popular vehicle doubles as a tradies workhorse and family transporter and has gone through six generations of updates and modifications worldwide.

First generation

The First generation Hilux, nicknamed RN10, was a short wheel base truck made between 1968 and 1971, and ran with a 1.5 litre engine. A long wheel base version became available in 1969 and a 1.6 litre engine was added in 1971.

Second generation

Halfway through 1972 the MY73 Hilux came out with a more comfortable interior and some updates to the exterior. From 1972-1978 a 1.6 litre engine was available and from 1977-1978 a two litre engine was also used.

In 1975 the Hilux went through a significant design change including a much more luxurious interior. It also gained a new 20R 2.2 litre engine, an optional five-speed manual and for the first time, an SR5 upscale package became available.

Third generation

The third generation Hilux was introduced as a 4WD for the first time. Automatic transmission makes its debut as well.

In America in 1981 Toyota made a move into the SUV market by going into business with Winnebago. Out of that partnership the Trekker(Winnebago) was born, and via research and development on the Trekker, the 4Runner – sold in Australia among other countries – was produced.

From 1981-1983 there was the choice of a 2.4 litre petrol and 2.2 litre diesel endine.

Fourth generation

There was an optional fuel injection engine in 1985 – the 22R-E – with a turbo charged option. A V6 engine was introduced in 1988.

Design-wise, the introduction of an Xtracab two-row extended cab option was the major change.

Fifth generation

A longer wheelbase and one piece box cargo walls were introduced as part of the 1988 redesign. A three litre V6 engine was also added. Progress was relatively slow through this period. The fifth generation went right through to 2005.

Sixth generation

The sixth generation Hilux – the one we see today – is bigger and more luxurious than previous editions and truly is a family car.

For a more information on the late model Hilux see the attached Related Articles..