Forget the cookie-cutter builds clogging your social media feed. In an era of extreme rock crawlers and glamping rigs built for show, there’s a quiet revolution happening, and it’s being led by an Australian petrolhead. Here’s how Driven Garage’s Bri Voto built the 4×4 of our dreams.
Her latest project, a masterfully crafted graphite Toyota Hilux, is a direct challenge to the aftermarket status quo. And the recent feature in 4×4 Australia promotes a build philosophy we can all get behind.
Purpose Over Posturing
While most builders bolt on parts first and worry about paperwork later, Bri flipped the script and ensured she got her Second Stage Manufacturing (SSM) compliance before registration.
This single, pragmatic decision unlocked the build’s true potential. Partnering with Superior Engineering, she executed a full suspension overhaul with coil conversions, control arms and remote reservoirs. The result? Four-inch lift on 295-section tyres. The kicker? It’s all fully street legal, complete with a GVM upgrade to handle serious touring weight. Given Australia’s regulatory environment, that’s a masterclass in smart modification.
Power with a Purpose
With a chassis capable of handling the Outback, attention turned to the 2.8-litre heart. A G-Turbo upgrade and supporting mods unleashed a thrilling 160kW and 730Nm. But as Bri notes, the real victory isn’t the peak number but the transformed drivability. Sharp and snappy throttle response, even under load, paired with a remarkably efficient 10-12.5L/100km.
Now obviously our favourite part of Bri’s build was the departure from convention. Instead of a canopy or rooftop tent, Bri opted for the Alu-Cab ModCAP Family Camper.
The ModCAP offers standing-height living space, a drop down bed section that sleeps four, a rear galley ModCAP Kitchen, MOLLE panels, and a 60L water tank.
The Takeaway
Bri Voto’s Hilux is a vehicle where extended comfort and functional drivability take priority. It’s a build that proves that designing around your actual requirements produces the most practical and capable rig of all.
Want to see this masterpiece in action? Click the video box below.