AFN Toyota Hilux: Custom 4X4OTY contender

We’ve assembled an incredible list of modified machines for the inaugural Custom 4X4 Of The Year award.

If you go to AFN’s Australian website, one of the first things you’re likely to see is Gavin Duffield’s striking black and white Toyota SR5 Hilux.

As a rolling AFN advert, this two-tone monster certainly is eye-catching. The Portuguese-made protection gear has been fitted to United Nations and NATO vehicles, and Gavin believes there’s a market for their civilian gear back home.

Gavin fitted his Toyota SR5 Hilux with an AFN bullbar that really makes a dramatic statement, with its aggressive lines and two-inch lift kit. The bar sits back as far as possible for weight distribution with high, swept-back corners to improve approach angles.

All AFN bullbars are constructed from steel and tailored to the specific vehicle, rather than a singular one-size-fits-best design. In addition, the drivetrain and fuel tank are protected by AFN 6mm alloy protection plates, as well as an AFN shield for the Toyota’s load sensor.

Gavin replaced the original grille with a plain black, mesh-steel insert and wrapped the door handles and mirrors in black to continue the theme. Black AFN side rails and sidesteps border the vehicle.

This beast runs on forged alloy Delta Klassik 18x9in wheels and BFGoodrich rubber, with Outback Armour suspension front and back.

Gavin fitted a steel Sammitr canopy and an AFN rear bar and wheel carrier down the back, with the option of loading two spare wheels, jerry cans or one of each. The wheel carrier utilises a cone arrangement rather than wheel studs so that just about any wheel can be carried. The carriers use a cam lock, which allows them to be pushed shut, and a locking device to keep the carriers swung out if needed.

The spare wheel covers up the Toyota stock rear lights, so Gavin installed a three-way combination light that combines the tail-lights, brakes and indicators into the rear bar.

The entire rig runs well on the road but it really shines on the beach, as Gavin pointed out: “I just couldn’t believe how well it went on the beach. It’s got a bit of get up and go.”

Time to hit the beaches with this monster.

Vote for AFN's SR5 Toyota Hilux to decide this year's Custom 4x4 of the Year.