2005 Toyota Hilux Extra Cab Photos, engines & full specs

The seventh generation of the Hilux was unveiled in the summer of 2004 for the 2005 model year, and the automaker offered it in three cab versions, with the Extra Cab sitting in the middle.

Before launching the 2005 Toyota Hilux Extra Cab, the Japanese automaker sold over 12 million units of this nameplate from the previous generations. It was the second best-selling vehicle in the brand’s portfolio after the Corolla. The history of this nameplate began in 1968 when the first generation was developed and produced by Hino Trucks Company, part of the Toyota holding. That model had a six-foot-long (1.8-meter) bed that could barely fit a couch for three. But the automaker learned what customers wanted and needed. As a result, the Hilux has improved in many ways over the following decades. Furthermore, it added a 4x4 system that gave it serious offroad abilities, transforming the vehicle into one that could deliver food and supplies in frozen or deserted areas. But unlike its previous generations, this one came with more features and amenities and a more comfortable suspension that transformed it into a vehicle suitable for the entire family, especially in the Double Cab shape. The Extra Cab, on the other hand, was made for those who didn’t need the rear seats on a daily basis but could use a more extended loading area. In Europe, the seventh generation of the Hilux was considered the sixth since the first generation, produced between 1968 and 1972, was sold as the Toyota Truck.

At the front, the Extra Cab version was available in more trim levels than its four-door sibling. Furthermore, the new headlights impressed customers with their organic shape featuring rounded edges and integrated turn signals on their outer sides. Between them, Toyota placed a broad grille crossed by a thick horizontal slat that sported the brand’s badge in the middle. In the lowest grade, the 2005 Toyota Hilux Extended Cab had black bumpers, while body-painted ones were standard from the second grade up. Both of them sported a rectangular air intake on the lower side, and a set of round fog lamps was available.

From its profile, the 2005 Toyota Hilux Extra Cab revealed its rounded shapes and shaved corners, which made it look less rugged. Furthermore, those fitted with the 4x4 system boasted a higher ground clearance than those that sent their power to the rear wheels only. Surprisingly, the automaker didn’t consider extending the doors for easier ingress and egress to the rear cabin area, albeit it considered installing tilt-forward front seats. This version also had a more extended loading area. At the back, the tailgate could be lowered at a 90-degree angle or even more if the side retainers were removed. Under the bed, behind the rear axle, the automaker installed the spare wheel.

Inside, the hard-plastic dashboard was the only option available, albeit there were some significant differences in terms of equipment. For the base model, the 2005 Toyota Hilux Extra Cab came with a stereo on the center stack. Underneath it, the automaker placed the large dials for the HVAC system that could be operated with gloved hands. A pair of small storage compartments flanked it. Fronting the driver was a clean instrument cluster with a three-dial arrangement where the speedometer took center stage. It was flanked on the left by the tachometer and on the right by the fuel and temperature gauges. The center console housed the gear stick and the available lever for the transfer box. Customers could enjoy the front seats designed for easy access and exit, with minimal side bolstered areas. In the back, the two jump seats were cramped but usable for short distances or in an emergency.

Depending on the market, the 2005 Toyota Hilux Extra Cab was available with either a 4x4 or a 4x2 drive system. Both versions were fitted with a five-speed manual gearbox, and only the former had a two-speed transfer box. A locking rear differential was also available. Under the hood, Toyota installed only one engine version, a 2.4-liter turbodiesel.