By Staff Reporter

The Toyota Hilux has been around since 1968 and, like its Corolla sibling, has dominated rivals from then till now. To ensure that the Hilux stays ahead of the pack, Toyota has expanded the model range (for the UK), refreshed looks and upgraded the power train.

New look

 Upfront, the updated Hilux gains a new and imposing three-dimensional grille as well new bumpers. These, along with new front and rear LED light clusters, will make the Hilux hard to miss. The side profile will see the introduction of new machine finish and black 18″ alloy wheel design. The refreshed range also gets three new exterior colours – Emotional Red II, Dark Blue and Oxide Bronze metallic.

Interior

The upgraded interior features a new driver’s combimeter design, and a new, 8″ centre console-mounted infotainment screen which adopts mechanical buttons and dials for ease of use under all driving conditions. The enhanced multimedia system features faster software and screen response, satellite navigation and incorporates both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for smartphone integration. Top models will even offer a 9-speaker JBL Premium Sound System incorporating an 800W 8-channel amplifier and CLARi-Fi technology.

Engine           

The range will see the addition of a new, more powerful 2,8 turbo-diesel engine with 150 kW and 500 Nm. This new engine will accelerate the Hilux from 0-100 km/h in just 10.0 seconds (2.8 seconds faster than the existing 2.4 litre unit), whilst returning a claimed average fuel consumption of 7.8 l/100 km.

On-road and off-road driving manners have also been improved. The comfort and driveability of the new Hilux has been enhanced through improvements to the suspension and power steering systems. The suspension benefits from front and rear shock absorber tuning, improved leaf spring design and new bushing to combine a smoother ride with reduced impact on steps and holes.

Off-road capability is enhanced by a new electronic function replicating the effect of a mechanical LSD (on 2WD models); the lowering of engine speed at idle from 850 to 680 rpm and a tuned accelerator response for greater driver control; an updated VSC system; and a new tyre angle monitor.

New Top grade for UK

A new top of the range Invincible grade has been introduced. Offered in Extra Cab and Double Cab, the Invincible model’s exclusive exterior styling details include bespoke front grille and bumper, skid plate, over fender, door handle, wheel and tailgate designs.

On board, Invincible builds on the High grade specification with an exclusive driver’s combimeter, black metallic and black chrome trim accents, and even a grade-exclusive smart entry key. On Double Cab, ‘clear blue’ front and rear door trim illumination and dual tone perforated leather seats are added to enhance the cabin appeal.

Local availability

Toyota SA says, “the local South African lifecycle is different to other markets such as Australia and Thailand. The Legend 50 package served as a lifecycle refresh action and thus introduction of the new model is still some months away.”