Toyota has created a trio of new high-end variants of its HiLux to help boost sales of the popular Thai-built ute, which retained its position as Australia’s top-selling vehicle last year but finished second to the Ford Ranger in the all-important 4×4 pick-up/cab chassis segment.

It comes as no surprise, then, that Toyota Australia has moved quickly to improve its position in the high-volume 4×4 ute segment, announcing early this year that it was preparing to introduce three “dramatically styled” new variants – dubbed Rogue, Rugged and Rugged X – that are positioned above the top-spec SR5 and carry features that boost “off-road protection, recovery and functionality”.

In other words, they are perfect for tradesfolk in the market for a highly specified tough-looking workhorse that makes light work of the most difficult jobsites and is set up for use as a “weekend warrior”.

Full details were still to be released at the time of writing, but pricing was anticipated to start northward of the HiLux SR5 4×4 dual cab turbo-diesel which starts from around $55,000 plus on-road costs.

The flagship Rugged X looks certain to be positioned as a rival to Ford’s forthcoming Ranger Raptor and the Holden/HSV Colorado SportsCat.

The X-rated HiLux is aggressively styled and includes a high-tensile alloy bash plate and winch-compatible steel bullbar – all compatible with the vehicle’s airbags and other safety systems – as well as a black grille with interlocking honeycomb design and gloss-black surround.

Other features include LED driving lights, a snorkel, high-strength front and rear recovery points, rock rails, load-carrying sports bar and other heavy-duty components.

The Rogue is identified by its hexagonal upper grille, unique front bumper design and revised foglamp treatment, while Rugged has an emphasis on functionality with a touch of aggression via its front-end design that includes a premium steel bullbar.

Toyota says all new components are to be fully integrated with the vehicle, certified to Australian Design Rules to be fully homologated and attract full warranty coverage.