Why Is This Military Spec Toyota Hilux Running Around Michigan With Manufacturer Plates?

How would you like a midsize truck with heavy duty axles!

toyota hilux military version truck michigan spied
Toyota Hilux military spec (Photo: Trevor B.)

Here is a militarized version of the Toyota Hilux caught driving around Michigan. It is a very cool and tough-looking version of Toyota’s midsize pickup truck, but why is it wearing manufacturer plates on public roads?

Big thanks to Trevor B. for sending us these images.

Toyota Hilux

Many people use the Toyota Hilux and Toyota Tacoma names interchangeably, but the two are different and not available for sale in the same markets. The Tacoma is focused on the United States and the North American market, while the Hilux is available in Europe, Asia, and elsewhere.

This military spec truck has many modifications. It’s riding on heavy-duty eight-lug axles. It appears to have a suspension lift. It has unique doors and tailgate latches/handles. It has a front bumper guard, a snorkel air intake, and a special rack inside the bed.

We don’t know much else about this truck. It may belong to Toyota, Toyota’s competitor, and an aftermarket company that outfits military trucks. If it does belong to Toyota’s competitor, it may be Ford or Chevy.

Ford has a military spec version of the Ranger. Chevrolet is working on a military version of the Colorado with their ZH2 fuel-cell powered prototype trucks. Naturally, it can also belong to another manufacturer.

If you know further details about this, either leave a comment or email us at ask@tfltruck.com

Here is our first look at the new civilian version of the Toyota Hilux.