The Origin of the HiLux Rogue: From Tonka Dream to Toyota Reality
Every legend starts with imagination and for the Toyota HiLux Rogue, that spark came from a childhood favourite: Tonka Trucks.
Back in 2017, Toyota Australia unveiled the HiLux Tonka Concept, a bold, life-size reimagining of the HiLux designed to celebrate both the model’s toughness and the shared 80-year heritage of Toyota and Tonka. Built in Melbourne by Toyota’s product design team, this one-off concept pushed the limits of what a HiLux could be raised suspension, heavy-duty underbody protection, 35-inch tyres, and rugged composite panels that looked straight out of an off-road fantasy.
While the Tonka HiLux was never destined for showrooms, it captured the imagination of drivers around the world. Its stance, strength, and spirit became the blueprint for something real, the HiLux Rogue.
When Toyota released the Rogue, it distilled that concept’s wild energy into a refined, production-ready version built for everyday adventurers. The Rogue carried over the attitude of the Tonka truck, but with the sophistication and safety Toyota owners expect. With features like a wider track for improved stability, upgraded suspension, rear disc brakes, and bold exterior styling, the Rogue became the ultimate expression of the HiLux’s off-road credibility and urban capability.
Today, the HiLux Rogue commands attention with refined capability and rugged poise. Under the bonnet it packs a 2.8 L turbo-diesel producing 150 kW and paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, offering serious performance for both work and weekend adventure.
A wider track and purposeful stance deliver superior handling on the road and in rough terrain, while features like rear differential lock, low–range 4WD and Downhill Assist Control reinforce its off-road credentials. Inside, the Rogue offers premium touches like leather-accented upholstery, advanced connectivity (Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™) and Toyota’s Connected Services to keep you linked and secure.
With a braked towing capacity of up to 3,500 kg and a combined fuel consumption of around 7.8 L/100 km, it balances strength and efficiency. Whether cruising Perth’s suburbs or tackling WA’s off-road tracks, the HiLux Rogue delivers the perfect blend of Toyota reliability and bold design.
