Toyota has announced the launch of the new Hilux.
“More capable and more stylish” were the keywords used to describe the new vehicle.
Since its launch in 1968, the Hilux has proved its invincibility time and again, according to Toyota, having conquered the North Pole, Icelandic volcanoes, the Antarctic and a win in the Dakar Rally in 2019.
Design and on-board technology
The face of the new Hilux has been completely redesigned with a new bold & powerful three-dimensional grille and front bumper treatment. The new exterior is further enhanced by the availability of newly designed front and rear LED light clusters, as well as a new machine finish and black 18” alloy wheels.
The upgraded interior features a new driver’s combi meter design, and a new, 8″ centre console-mounted infotainment screen which adopts mechanical buttons and dials for enhanced operability under all driving conditions.
The enhanced multimedia system incorporates both Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ for smartphone integration.
An extensive equipment list includes smart entry and push-button start, satellite navigation, automatic air-conditioning, front and rear parking sensors, and a 9-speaker JBL Premium Sound System incorporating an 800W 8-channel amplifier and CLARi-Fi technology.
A wide range of accessories will enable customers to further tailor their vehicles to their own work or leisure requirements. These include a resin sports bar, an electric aluminium roll cover, tailgate locking, a hardtop and a 12v deck-mounted power supply.
Driving dynamics
When designing the new Hilux, the aim was to keep maximum off-road capabilities while improving on-road comfort. To ensure extreme off-road conditions, Hilux is one of the few still true to its body-on-frame architecture which can withstand twisting forces better and more durably.
Both the suspension and power steering systems have been upgraded to improve comfort and driveability. 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.
Powertrains
The new Hilux powertrain range has been bolstered by the addition of a new, more powerful 2.8 litre, 204 DIN hp diesel engine.
Generating 500 Nm of torque, Toyota state that 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 an average fuel consumption of 7.8 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 204 g/km.
The new 2.8-litre powertrain will be available in ‘Extra Cab’ and ‘Double Cab’ body styles, with a choice of 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmissions, mated to 4-wheel drive.
Further information
Sales of the new Hilux will begin this year in Eastern Europe in July and in Western Europe in October.
For further information on the new Toyota Hilux range, click here.
