There are few challenges left for Toyota’s mighty Hilux, a car that has toughed it out in the world’s most extreme environments for decades and which only last year made history by conquering the Arctic to become the first car to drive to the Magnetic North Pole. If those achievements alone didn’t leave the competition reeling, they are about to suffer another high-powered blow.

The Commercial Vehicle Show marks the debut of a new Hilux version that is set to become the most powerful production pick-up model on the UK market. With numbers limited to just 500 units, it also promises to be one of the most sought-after, too.

It is equipped with the 3.0-litre D-4D engine that already features in the Hilux Invincible, but thanks to a Toyota Motorsport diesel engine performance kit, maximum output is increased to a massive 194bhp (197 DIN hp). This slashes the nought to 62mph acceleration time from 13.0 to 10.5 seconds (11.4 seconds for automatic versions).

There is an even greater hike in torque performance, with a maximum 430Nm (up from 343Nm) sustained all the way from 1,600 to 3,200rpm.

Hilux is styled to reflect its pre-eminent position in the pick-up market, with dedicated 15-inch alloy wheels and stainless steel mesh grille. The cabin is finished in a special two-tone grey leather, with heated front seats.

Following its debut at the CV Show at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham on 15 April, the new range-topping Hilux will go on sale in the UK in the summer. Prices and full specification details will be announced nearer the on sale date.