Toyota introduced an unusual modification for the previous generation Hilux. Instead of upgrading the suspension or steering, engineers developed a special aluminum underbody protection with aerodynamic fins, designed to improve the pickup's stability at high speeds.

The new feature is called Shibetsu Fin Undercover. The development emerged after research at Toyota's test track in Shibetsu, Japan. Engineers discovered that the pickup's high ground clearance caused air turbulence under the body. This resulted in minor oscillations and pressure differences between the sides of the vehicle, which could affect directional stability, especially in strong crosswinds.

To address the problem, small aerodynamic elements were integrated into the underbody protection. According to Toyota, these help to smooth out airflow and reduce low-frequency oscillations by more than 90%. The company claims this improves the pickup's behavior when driving straight, cornering, and during gusts of wind.

Creating the part proved more challenging than expected. Several manufacturers declined the project due to the need to form fins just 5 mm high in a 3 mm thick aluminum sheet. Ultimately, Toyota enlisted metalworking specialists from the Tsubame-Sanjo region, known for its high-precision manufacturing technologies. The accessory is designed for eighth-generation Hilux models produced from 2017 to 2024.