The price of a brand-new truck in the United States reached an average of $59,000 by the end of last year. This staggering figure highlights a significant financial barrier for many, especially when considering that a base model Ford F-150 XL, priced around $35,000, offers comparable capability to a high-end $85,000 Limited trim. Even the most budget-friendly truck option currently available in the US, the Ford Maverick, starts at approximately $25,000. This pricing landscape underscores why the Toyota IMV 0 instantly grabbed attention as a potentially game-changing vehicle. Here is a brand-new, albeit not full-size, truck boasting a starting price of just $10,000. Imagine: a practical, capable machine, ready for work and even turning heads with its unique design, all for less than half the cost of a Maverick.
However, there’s a significant catch for US truck enthusiasts: the Toyota IMV 0 is unlikely to ever reach American shores.
| Quick Stats | 2024 Toyota IMV 0 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0-Liter I4 |
| Output | 137 Horsepower / 135 Pound-Feet |
| Transmission | Five-Speed Manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Base Price | $10,000 |
| On Sale | Not in the US |
Gallery: Toyota IMV 0 Concepts
The Appeal of a Basic, Small Toyota Truck
Japan has a rich history of small, affordable trucks. These compact kei trucks have gained considerable popularity in the US, although their legality is increasingly challenged in various regions, even those adhering to the 25-year import rule.
The Toyota IMV 0, however, steps beyond the kei truck category. While undeniably a Small Toyota Truck, it surpasses the Maverick in length by almost a foot, positioning it as a more substantial compact option. It leverages the robust Hilux platform, globally recognized as the international counterpart to the Toyota Tacoma, a popular mid-size truck in the US market. While precise dimensions for the IMV 0 were not readily available during the initial review, the core concept emphasizes adaptability. This small Toyota truck is designed for customization, allowing for various configurations to meet specific needs. The pre-production model tested featured a bed capable of accommodating a standard sheet of drywall, while the cab comfortably seated two adults without feeling overly cramped.
Despite its practicality, the IMV 0 prioritizes function over luxurious comfort.
Contractor-Grade Design and Functionality
The interior of the IMV 0 reflects its utilitarian purpose. Seating is upright and fixed directly to the cab’s rear wall. Forget spacious crew cab configurations; this small Toyota truck provides a functional space for two occupants, a minimalist dashboard, and essential controls for operation.
For drivers who prefer traditional controls over touchscreens, the IMV 0 is a refreshing departure. It completely omits a touchscreen interface and minimizes the number of controls. The base model foregoes even basic heating, reflecting its primary design for Thailand and similar developing markets where consistently warm climates prevail.
However, acknowledging practical needs, manual air conditioning via hand-cranked windows comes standard.
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Climbing into the driver’s seat – no power running boards here – reveals a gauge cluster focused on essential information. Advanced safety systems are absent, as are ABS and airbags in the base model. Forget trip computers or trailer monitoring systems; the IMV 0 offers only essential warning lights and a speedometer. The good news is, the direct connection to the 137-horsepower, 2.0-liter inline-four engine means the lack of a tachometer is hardly missed.
Hard, durable plastics dominate the interior, and the absence of a factory-installed radio is a deliberate choice. Toyota engineers explained that aftermarket audio systems are so prevalent in Thailand that any factory unit would likely be replaced. The result is a truly spartan interior, embodying the essence of a basic, functional vehicle. This small Toyota truck is built for work, not for frills.
The Right Tool: Driving the Small Toyota Truck
The first encounter with the IMV 0 was in the sunny infield of Toyota’s expansive Shimoyama test complex. Igniting the engine, the 2.0-liter four-cylinder came to life with a modest hum. The floor-mounted shifter, with its long throw, engaged each of the five forward gears with a reassuringly mechanical feel.
Positioned behind Toyota’s electric vehicle prototype with a simulated manual transmission, maneuvering the IMV 0 required reversing to create space. While a rearview camera is absent, the slender A and B pillars, combined with the truck’s compact dimensions, made navigating the prototype-filled pit area surprisingly easy. This small Toyota truck felt remarkably nimble.
The contrast to a recently tested Silverado 2500HD was stark. The Silverado, a large and cumbersome rig, proved challenging to maneuver in a narrow parking garage, even with 360-degree cameras and proximity sensors constantly engaged. In contrast, the IMV 0’s generous tire sidewalls inspired confidence, making curb approaches stress-free.
Venturing onto the test track, the initial cautious driving quickly gave way to a more spirited approach. With the accelerator fully depressed, the engine responded with increased noise but modest acceleration. Shifting through the gears, up to fifth, required deliberate, relaxed movements due to the long shifter throw.
Lane changes were executed with surprising agility. The small Toyota truck remained composed, never feeling unstable or prone to losing control, even when driven at its performance limits. It proved to be a surprisingly enjoyable and capable vehicle in its simplicity.
The IMV 0 embodies the straightforward functionality of basic work clothes, and like such dependable gear, it possesses an undeniable charm. Despite its limited features and modest performance, its appeal shines through. Even the styling, raw and purposeful, is arguably more attractive than many oversized, chrome-laden heavy-duty trucks with their often-unnecessary design embellishments. This small Toyota truck prioritizes function and honest design.
Gallery: Toyota IMV 0
A US Market Dream for a Small Toyota Truck
The Toyota IMV 0 serves as a delightful reminder of the essence of a basic, functional truck. This inherent simplicity makes its absence from the American market particularly regrettable. At least, for the next 25 years, until import regulations potentially allow it. The stark reality is that a truck as fundamentally basic as the IMV 0 clashes not only with stringent US regulations but also with the expectations of the modern American consumer market accustomed to higher levels of features and refinement.
However, the ongoing success of the Ford Maverick offers a glimmer of hope, suggesting a potential market appetite for smaller, more affordable trucks. Perhaps this signals to other manufacturers that there is indeed room for more compact and budget-conscious truck options. While the Maverick is commendable, it doesn’t quite capture the same rugged, purely utilitarian spirit that defines the IMV 0. Ideally, Toyota might consider bringing a smaller, more purposefully basic truck, akin to a sub-Tacoma inspired by the IMV 0’s design philosophy, to the US market. If you’ve read this far, chances are you share this sentiment and recognize the appeal of a small Toyota truck focused on utility and affordability.
IMV 0 Competitor Reviews:
FAQs
Will The Toyota IMV 0 Be Sold In The US?
Unfortunately, no. The IMV 0 does not comply with US safety and emissions regulations, nor does it align with the feature expectations of most American car buyers.
Can The Toyota IMV 0 Tow?
Yes, it is capable of towing. While Toyota hasn’t released official towing and payload figures for the IMV 0, the Hilux, which shares its platform, boasts a towing capacity exceeding 5,500 pounds. A reasonable estimate for the IMV 0 would be around 3,000 pounds.
How Much Does The Toyota IMV 0 Cost?
The base IMV 0 is priced at $10,000, a remarkably affordable entry point. This base configuration omits features like climate control, audio systems, and airbags. While more equipped versions may be available in other markets, the IMV 0 remains fundamentally a budget-friendly, basic truck.
| 2024 Toyota IMV 0 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0-Liter I4 |
| Output | 137 Horsepower / 135 Pound-Feet |
| Transmission | Five-Speed Manual |
| Drive Type | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Seating Capacity | 2 |
| Towing (est.) | 3,000 Pounds |
| Payload (est.) | 2,000 Pounds |
| Base Price | $10,000 |
