By Sala Masindane

What more can you say about the Toyota Hilux that has not been said? Well, nothing much but just like the Rihanna song, you just “shut up and drive”.

Changes

We recently spent some time in the locally built Toyota Hilux Double Cab bakkie which receives some limited updates. All top grade Legend models are now offered with the following features as standard: power-adjustable driver seat; leather interior; Toyota Safety Sense (Pre-crash system, Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control); upgrade to dual-zone climate control; and enhanced smart entry system.

Interior
Due to the inclusion of Android Auto/Apple CarPlay on all models fitted with an audio system, the on-board satellite navigation previously offered on selected models has been removed as customers opt to connect their smartphones for navigation more. The daily piloting of the large bakkie has been made more manageable thanks to the safety and tech upgrades. Our test unit also included the full-house treatment which includes a leather interior, JBL premium audio system and Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) active safety system which is exclusive to 4×4 models only.

In terms of practicality, we do like the electronic rear roller shutter. Initial operational issues appear to have been improved on. The next phase it to get an adjustable load bed divider so customers can easily use the load bed for small items without them flying around the large load area.

Performance and drive
Under the hood, the familiar 2.8-litre diesel engine is retained. It has power outputs of 150kW/500Nm and is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Having been adopted for the city by the lifestyle container, we found the bakkie to be a reliable travel companion both in the city or on the odd dirt road (it’s far more capable off-road being 4×4).

The 150kW/500Nm of power caries the large body without much fuss and the transmission shifts smoothly and accurately. During our stint in the Hilux, we managed a combined fuel consumption of 9.2 l/100km, which is not far from the claimed 8.0 l/100km. Pricing for the Toyota Hilux Double Range starts from R470,200.