Toyota HiLux gets the Tundra treatment in Japan

The Toyota Tundra pick-up from the US is on the radar for Australian showroom arrivals, but buyers who don't want to wait for the real deal can now transform their HiLux into a look-a-like thanks to a new kit out of Japan.

In a post on Instagram, Japanese Toyota tuning specialist GMG Double Eight showed off its Tundra-faced HiLux, grafting a front bumper and grille inspired by the North American pick-up onto the dual-cab ute.

Based on the looks of the third-generation Toyota Tundra – revealed last year – the facelift kit includes an octagonal-shaped, honeycomb-pattern grille inspired by the pick-up's TRD Pro variant, as well as white T-O-Y-O-T-A lettering.

The Tundra face-swap kit retains the HiLux’s standard headlights but adds three yellow marker lights in the grille, plus a fake scoop on the bonnet.

A set of Tundra-look wheel arch flares can be added to the kit.

According to GMG Double Eight, the kit of unpainted parts costs ¥388,000 ($AU3950) excluding local taxes and shipping –  ¥235,000 ($AU2400) for the front bumper, ¥5,000 ($AU50) for the honeycomb grille, ¥8,000 ($AU82) for the marker lights, ¥AU95,000 ($AU970) for the wheel arches and ¥58,000 ($AU592) for the bonnet scoop.

As reported by Drive last month, Toyota Australia has confirmed it is assessing the Tundra for sale in local showrooms, potentially arriving by the middle of 2024.

If the Toyota Tundra does reach Australian showrooms, it will compete against the Ram 1500, Chevrolet Silverado, and Ford F-150 in the local battle of North American pick-ups.

Meanwhile, the eighth-generation Toyota HiLux continues its run as Australia’s most popular new car, with 6214 examples reported as sold in August 2022 becoming the nameplate’s second-highest monthly result on record.

Toyota has previously announced the HiLux will score a number of upgrades next year, including minor tech and features updates in Workmate, SR and SR5 guise and a suspension overhaul for the HiLux Rogue.

The Toyota HiLux GR Sport is also due to arrive in showrooms next year, although the company is yet to announce further details for its flagship dual-cab ute.