We came into this build with the idea to create an achievable, yet no-holds-barred, touring setup based on the N80 Toyota Hilux platform. The goal? Showcase the experience, knowledge, capabilities, and class-leading brands we offer at M4C.au – and deliver a capable, self-contained, reliable, comfortable and most of all legal off-grid touring vehicle. A setup that’s just as ready for last-minute beach missions as it is for remote bucket-list outback destinations.
This isn’t a budget build, but it’s also not outlandish. If you love exploring this great country by 4WD and make touring a big part of your lifestyle, this level of build is very achievable on a Hilux dual-cab platform, for well under the price of an unmodified 300 Series or 70 Series with even basic modifications like track correction and auto gearbox upgrades.
And with the latest updates to the N80 platform – more power, better ride, improved tech – it’s a more comfortable and capable tourer than ever.
David from Perth Detailing Center liked what we did with this build so much, he purchased the vehicle off us! Since then, used his team’s expertise to detail and protect every inch of the vehicle, including applying BushWrapz Pro self-healing Paint Protection Film (PPF) to the whole vehicle and topping it off with Autotriz Paint Protection Film Ceramic Coating.
To keep it clear and easy to follow, we’ve broken this build down by category:
Hilux Build Specifications
1. Base Vehicle Specs
- Model: 2023 Toyota Hilux SR5 Dual Cab (N80)
- Engine: 2.8L turbo-diesel, 150kW and 500Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed torque-converter auto with upgraded cooling
The latest revision of the N80 Hilux gives us a modern, strong foundation with a decent power increase over pre-2022 models. The drivetrain is tough, serviceable, and now paired with a much more refined ride for long hours on-road and over corrugations.
2. Suspension & GVM Upgrade
- Tough Dog GVM kit: Increases legal payload to 3,510kg
- Tough Dog upper control arms: Maintain correct alignment and handling post-lift
All tested, certified, and road-legal. Keeps you compliant while loaded up for travel, and still rides beautifully.
3. Barwork, Protection, Towing & Recovery
- Onca 4×4 bull bar (satin black) with integrated recovery points
- Saber Offroad Winch and Alloy Winch Shackle: Ready for solo recovery missions
- Lazer Lamps Sentinel driving lights: Massive light output for night travel
- Safari ARMAX Snorkel: Keeps the engine breathing clean and dry
Smart, solid upgrades that do the job without unnecessary weight or complication.
4. Wheels & Tyres
- Raceline Gauge Satin-black Alloy Wheels
- Mickey Thompson Baja Boss A/T Tyres 265/65R17
Plenty of sidewall, all-terrain capability and aggressive but road-friendly tread pattern. Looks great and performs better.
5. Power System, Lighting & Electrical Accessories
- Dual Revolution Power Australia 100Ah Fully-Usable Slimline Lithium Batteries
- Victron Multiplus 2000VA (1600W Constant Load) inverter/charger combo
- Victron VMV Battery Monitor with Bluetooth SmartShunt, and Low Voltage battery Disconnect
- Redarc BCDC Classic50 charges from both solar and alternator at the same time, with green power priority, 50A DCDC and solar MPPT controller.
- 400W KT Solar Panels (2x 200W) mounted on RTT
- Garmin PowerSwitch
- Ignition Protected Mechanical Breakers Made in the USA
- LED Strip Lights Dual Colour White/Amber
- Lightforce Rok20s
- TJM Pro Series Twin Air Compressor with in-cab switching
- ECOXGEAR SoundExtreme SE26 Bluetooth Soundbar Speaker
This system is built to support multi-day off-grid living with all the comforts: charge tools, make coffee, run lighting, even work remotely if needed.
6. Bush Company Gear – RTT, Awnings, & Outhouse
- AX27 rooftop tent: Fast setup, built-in LED lighting and airflow
- 270 XT MAX freestanding awning: Massive shade, no poles needed
- Outhouse privacy awning: Hot shower, private loo or quick change room
Field-tested favourites for remote touring, proven to handle WA conditions.
7. Food & Drink Systems
- Slide-out kitchen with air fryer, induction cooker, coffee machine and bench
- Travel Buddy 12-Volt Marine Oven
- 90L Dual Zone National Lunar fridge: Keeps meals and drinks cold on the go
There’s nothing like having a functional kitchen ready wherever you park.
8. Canopy, Storage & Water
- Rhinoman Xpedition full-aluminium canopy with fold-down camp table in roof
- M4C Spray Tub Liner
- RVSS Easy Access Combo Drawer System with Travel Slide for tidy, accessible storage of recovery gear, tools, food and more
- PAK Offroad 40L Wheel Arch Tankwater: Easily filled, securely mounted beside RVSS drawers
9. Fuel System
- Brown Davis 150L long range fuel tank increase capacity by 87% over stock tank.
- Direction Plus Fuel Filter Kit
Enough capacity for remote travel and to bypass expensive or unreliable fuel stops, and keep pushing further.
10. Communications
- Cel-Fi GO Mobile Booster for enhanced reception
- Uniden XTRAK 80 Offroad Pack UHF radio with external antenna
- Starlink Mini Satellite Internet
Stay in contact across the country, no matter how remote you go.
Final Thoughts
This Hilux is proof that you don’t need to break the bank to build a genuinely capable, comfortable, and legal long-range tourer. It’s compact enough for everyday duties but ready to tackle the Gibb, Simpson, or Cape York at the drop of a hat.
And best of all – every component used is available right here at M4C.au, along with expert advice, fitment, and ongoing support from people who live and breathe the touring lifestyle.
👉 Want something like this for your next build? Call us on 1300 011 565 or drop by our Canning Vale showroom.