Toyota’s popular pickup truck, the Hilux . The Hilux Canopy is a cover that covers the cargo bed of Toyota’s pickup truck, the Hilux. Its functionality and stylish design make it a favorite among many Hilux owners. Some people wonder, ” Won’t the canopy make the car look uncool? ” In this article, we will take a closer look at the true appeal and disadvantages of the Hilux Canopy, as well as the price you are concerned about.
What are the attractions and benefits of the Hilux Canopy?
The greatest appeal of the Hilux Canopy is its excellent durability and functionality. For outdoor enthusiasts and people who frequently carry luggage for work, the canopy is an important item. It is highly waterproof and protects the luggage inside even in bad weather, so you can use it with confidence in any situation. In addition, the canopy not only helps to organize your luggage, but also provides excellent privacy protection. Since the cargo area is always kept out of sight, the risk of theft of valuables is reduced. In addition, the canopy can be customized, and there are various options to choose from depending on your purpose and preferences.
The popularity of the Hilux Canopy comes from its versatility and stylish design. It is practical for use in a variety of situations, including outdoors and at work, while still maintaining the stylish appearance of the Hilux.
Reasons to choose the Hilux Canopy
- Protection of cargo: The biggest advantage of a canopy is that it protects cargo from rain, wind and direct sunlight. You can carry outdoor equipment and work tools with peace of mind.
- Improved security: The canopy with lock is effective in preventing luggage theft. It is also effective in preventing car break-ins.
- Sleeping in the car: With a canopy, you can use the cargo area as a living space. This expands the range of outdoor leisure activities such as sleeping in the car and camping.
- Unique styling: Depending on the canopy design, you can further emphasize the wild atmosphere of the Hilux. Enjoy creating your own original customization.
Basic Features of the Hilux Canopy
- Cargo protection: Protects your cargo from rain, wind and direct sunlight
- Improved security: Helps prevent luggage theft
- Sleeping in the car: The cargo area can be used as living space
- Practicality: Many practical benefits, such as protecting luggage and improving security
- Design: Stylish exterior that matches the design of the Hilux
- Customizability: Various optional parts allow you to customize it to your liking
- Status: Increase your status as a Hilux owner
Disadvantages of Hilux Canopy
On the other hand, the Hilux Canopy does have some disadvantages. First, the canopy changes the appearance of the vehicle, and many people find the design “ugly.” In particular, for people who prefer a simple and stylish appearance, the canopy can be a factor that spoils the aesthetics of the vehicle. In addition, the increased weight of the canopy may affect fuel efficiency. Furthermore, installing and removing the canopy takes time and effort, which is inconvenient for users who frequently change the installation.
- Price: The price of a canopy varies depending on the material and features, but can range from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of yen.
- Weight increase: Installing a canopy increases the vehicle weight, which may affect fuel economy and driving performance.
- Height Restrictions: If you install a canopy, you may not be able to enter multi-storey car parks or other locations with height restrictions.
- Design preference: Canopy design is a matter of personal preference, and some people may find it “tacky” to have one installed.
Is the Hilux Canopy ugly?
Canopy designs are a matter of personal preference, and some may find them “ugly.” However, in recent years, the number of stylishly designed canopies has increased, and some even enhance the appearance of the Hilux.
Usability and problems of the Hilux Canopy
- Weight increase: Installing a canopy will increase the vehicle weight, which may result in reduced fuel economy or affect driving performance.
- Height restrictions: You may not be able to enter places with height restrictions, such as multi-storey car parks.
- Price: The canopy is a relatively expensive option.
How to overcome the disadvantages
- Choose a canopy made of lightweight materials: FRP and aluminum canopies are lightweight and reduce the burden on the vehicle.
- Choose a low-height canopy: You can also choose a low-height canopy so that it can be used in places with height restrictions.
- Consider a used canopy: Cheaper than a new one, a used canopy is also an option.
Market price of Hilux Canopy
The price of a Hilux canopy varies greatly depending on the material, features and manufacturer.
The canopy itself is sold as a genuine option for the Hilux as a TRD part, costing 388,000 yen (tax included). If you have it installed by a dealer, for example, it will take 1.5 hours to install, so labor costs will be 14,580 yen, for a total of 402,580 yen (tax included).
Reference: TRD
However, the current model does not have this option available as an original part, so you will have to purchase it from a third party.
- FRP: It is relatively cheap and lightweight, but may not be as durable. The average price is around 100,000 to 200,000 yen.
- Aluminum: Lightweight and durable, but expensive. The average price is around 200,000 to 400,000 yen.
- Steel: Strong and sturdy, but heavy. The average price is around 300,000 to 500,000 yen.
Is the Hilux Canopy ugly?
Whether or not a canopy is “uncool” is largely a matter of personal opinion. However, a canopy is highly practical and is an item that is useful for outdoor leisure and work. By choosing a canopy that combines functionality and design, you can further enhance the appeal of your Hilux.
summary
The Hilux Canopy has many benefits, including protection of cargo, improved security, and the ability to sleep in the car. On the other hand, it also has disadvantages, such as increased price, weight, and height restrictions. Carefully consider whether or not to install a canopy based on your lifestyle and preferences.
I hope this article will be helpful for those who are considering purchasing a Hilux Canopy.
