By Khulekani Dumisa

Having updated the Hilux range fairly recently, Toyota gave us the updated Hilux Raider DC 2.4 GD-6 4X4 MT to test for a few days. The refreshed Hilux bakkie comes with the latest Hilux ‘face’, featuring halogen headlamps, a larger trapezoidal grille with a chrome surrounding to emphasise its lifestyle traits, integrated bumper guard and boomerang-shaped fog-lamp surrounds. The fog lamps are upgraded to LED-spec. The 18-inch wheels have been swapped out for graphite-coloured 17-inch versions.

Interior

Inside, a new ‘floating’ infotainment system with an 8-inch screen and rotary-knob control has been added. It comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An enlarged Multi-Information Display (MID) and new instrument cluster design, also forms part of the package. The infotainment screen is decently sized but could benefit from better graphics. It looks a bit dated compared to what competitors offer.

The interior is of good quality. The rear bench can be folded up if you want to carry stuff like kids bikes or pot plants at the back. The cloth seats are comfortable but we would opt for leather seats to make the interior more premium and for the ease of cleaning.

Drive

The Hilux Raider DC continues to be powered by a fuel efficient 2.4 GD-6 turbodiesel engine with 110 kW and 400 Nm although buyers can opt for a 2.8 option. Auto Limited Slip Differential (LSD) has been added to assist with traction in low-grip situations. A Variable-Flow Control (VFC) power-steering pump has been added to assist with steering and fuel consumption.

Having driven the Legend RS, we thought we wouldn’t enjoy this 2,4 due to the drop in power compared to the more eager Legend RS. To the contrary, we loved the 2.4 motor. Although our test unit was a 6-speed manual, the gear is smooth and shifts are simple. The car manages to carry itself very well. You not left wanting for power in any situation.

Overtaking, although the odd shift down may be required, is done without breaking a sweat. Long distance driving is not a chore at all thanks to the standard cruise control. In fact, the average fuel consumption of 7,3l/100km makes up for the drop in power.

Final word

Hilux Raider 2.4 GD-6 MT 4×4 sits in the middle of the Hilux range and impresses with good looks, relative comfort, a generous list of standard specification, decent steering and a solid 2.4 turbodiesel motor that’s very fuel efficient. You can can also get the Raider with a 2.8 turbodiesel engine. The Hilux DC 2.4 GD-6s 4X4 Raider MT is priced from R595,400.