Toyota in Australia has rekindling childhood memories with the reveal of the HiLux Tonka Concept,  a full-size, very-much real-life rock-crawling truck that takes in styling cues from a Tonka toy.

Product design chief Nicolas Hogios said the extreme style and capability of the HiLux Tonka Concept would capture the imagination of kids and adults alike.

Underneath the distinctive black-and-yellow livery of the HiLux Tonka Concept is the top-of-the-range production HiLux - the SR5 double cab with 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine.

An extensive makeover starts with substantially extra ground clearance - an increase in ride height of 150mm (six inches) – and includes heavy-duty suspension and 35-inch diameter tyres.

The high-riding stance is complemented by an aggressively-styled new front bar and bonnet with carbon-fibre skin.

A rugged bash plate made from six mm-thick alloy is designed to protect the sump and other vital components while tubular side rails protect the body and chassis.

Behind the cabin there is a new tailgate, also wrapped in carbon fibre, that incorporates an integrated spoiler while inside the tray a removable tubular frame keeps all the gear in place, including diesel fuel cans, storage boxes for  recovery gear and fire extinguisher, axe, shovel and high-lift jack.

While the HiLux Tonka Concept is not destined for dealer showrooms, adults and kids alike will have the opportunity to share the dream as it tours 4WD shows, field days and expos around the country.

To read every story in the July 2017 issue of NZ4WD go to Zinio.com (June 16) or purchase your own hard copy at the Adrenalin store.