While Australian buyers continue to embrace increasingly large dual-cab utes, Toyota has gone in the opposite direction in the United States, unveiling a tiny new four-wheel-drive pick-up inspired by Japan’s popular kei trucks.

Called the KEI-01, the pint-sized workhorse will go on sale in America during the second half of 2027, becoming the first vehicle launched under Toyota’s revived Scion brand. Measuring just over 3.35 metres long and less than 1.52 metres wide, the KEI-01 is much smaller than a conventional ute, making it well suited to tight urban environments and industrial sites.

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Power comes from a 660cc three-cylinder petrol engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while selectable four-wheel drive is standard. Toyota is yet to reveal engine outputs and fuel consumption figures, though its top speed is limited to just 40km/h. That’s to comply with America’s low-speed vehicle regulations instead of applying to conventional passenger vehicle rules .

Despite its small dimensions, the KEI-01 offers a payload capacity of 272kg, along with a three-way folding tray that allows items to be loaded from either side or the rear. Inside, there’s a raised roof, sliding and reclining seats, air conditioning and storage space behind the occupants.

Production will take place at Toyota’s Indiana manufacturing facility, supported by a $US34 million ($A52 million) investment. Initially, the KEI-01 will be sold exclusively to commercial fleet customers, although limited private sales could follow depending on demand.

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Although Toyota hasn’t announced plans to introduce the KEI-01 locally, there’s an argument that a small, inexpensive workhorse could appeal to certain Australian buyers. Japanese kei trucks, including the Daihatsu Hijet and Suzuki Carry, have developed a following among enthusiasts and businesses thanks to their compact dimensions and low running costs.

For farmers, landscaping businesses and operators working in confined spaces, a small four-wheel-drive ute could provide a more manoeuvrable alternative to a conventional dual-cab. For now, the KEI-01 remains an American-market proposition, with Toyota yet to announce pricing or plans for markets outside the United States.