Toyota introduced this nameplate in 1984 as a new body-on-frame SUV inspired by the Toyota Trekker and based on the Hilux pickup. The earliest versions were closely tied to truck hardware, with a removable fiberglass rear top and a simple, utility-first layout that appealed to buyers who wanted four-wheel-drive capability without giving up everyday usability. Over time, it became one of Toyota’s most recognizable off-road nameplates in North America and beyond.
The second generation, launched for the 1990 model year, marked the biggest early shift in character. Toyota replaced the removable-top formula with a more integrated SUV body, added greater comfort and interior space, and moved the vehicle closer to the mainstream sport-utility market while keeping its rugged identity. Subsequent generations refined that balance of durability, capability, and family practicality, helping the model evolve from a niche truck-based utility vehicle into a long-running staple in Toyota’s SUV lineup.
The nameplate continued through the 1990s, 2000s, and 2010s with major updates in styling, chassis design, safety equipment, and off-road technology, while retaining its reputation for toughness and adventure-focused appeal. Toyota launched an all-new sixth generation for the 2025 model year, extending the badge into its next era. It remains in production today, which is why no final model year is listed.