Second generation (N20; 1972–1978)
In May 1972, the 1973 model year Hilux was released as the RN20. Nicknamed the "ロケハイ (RokeHi) a Portmanteau of Rocket Hilux", a more comfortable interior was specified along with exterior updates. A 2.25 m (7.4 ft) "long bed" was an option for the first time in North America, although such a version had been available worldwide since April 1969. This received the "RN25" chassis code. The 2.0-liter 18R engine was available in Japan as well, also with an available three-speed automatic transmission. The 2.0-litre automatic only managed a 136.1 km/h (84.6 mph) top speed in a period South African road test, in spite of a claimed 89 kW (121 PS).
The Hilux was radically redesigned in 1975 to be larger and with increased standard equipment. In North America, the new version also meant the introduction of the considerably larger (2.2 L) 20R engine and the SR5 upscale trim package. A five-speed manual transmission became optional. In North America, the Hilux name was fully phased out in favor of "Truck" by that year, having been dropped from brochures and advertising starting in 1973. Some North American motor-coach manufacturers began building Toyota motor-homes with this chassis.
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