The updated Toyota HiLux has been revealed boasting more power and torque, tweaked suspension and increased towing capacity across manual and automatic variants.
The new Toyota HiLux has been revealed (in overseas pre-production trim) and it looks better than the current version. It’s also more powerful, has more torque and the towing capacity has risen across both 4×4 and 4×2 variants.
It’s the tweaked 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel that’ll grab headlines with power increased to 150kW (15.3% increase) and torque up to 500Nm (11.1% increase). Despite being more powerful, Toyota reckons the new HiLux will drink less than the current model.
The upgraded HiLux range keeps a 2.4-litre turbo diesel and a 2.7-litre four-cylinder petrol engine along with three transmission options, 4×2 and 4×4 drive, three body styles (single, extra and double cabs), two configurations (pick-up or cab-chassis) and five equipment levels (Workmate, SR, SR5, Rogue and Rugged X).
Those who tow will be pleased that the new double-cab-chassis Workmate (4×4) and SR5 (4×4) derivatives have been upgraded to a maximum braked towing capacity of 3500kg to match manual versions. On 4×2 variants, all diesel automatics are now rated at 2800kg, an increase of up to 300kg.
And ride and handling should be improved thanks to some much-needed suspension improvements. Revised shock-absorber tuning, new bushings and improved leaf-spring design are claimed to improve low load and rough-road ride and handling. We’ll see.
Inside, all models have been upgraded to an eight-inch display screen with voice recognition and Apple and Android connectivity. SR and higher grades are also equipped with satellite navigation and digital (DAB) radio.
What about the looks? The trapezoidal grille is larger to give a more muscular appearance…it looks better than before, in our opinion. The grille surrounds differ depending on the grade while the new headlights are smaller “for a “meaner” look and light clusters include LEDs on high grades”.
The updated HiLux is expected to arrive here in late August.
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