A new-look HiLux range has made its global debut, with the expanded line-up showcasing improvements to performance, fuel economy, ride comfort, towing and equipment levels.

The updated HiLux, arriving in Australian showrooms from late August, offers improved output from its 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine due to multiple new components and enhanced cooling.

Maximum power has been increased to 150kW (+15.3 per cent) while peak torque on automatic models has been ramped up to 500Nm (+11.1 per cent).

Toyota says that fuel consumption also improves by up to 11.1 per cent while tuned accelerator response delivers greater driver control.

The upgraded HiLux range retains a 2.4-litre turbo-diesel and a 2.7-litre four-cylinder petrol engine along with three transmissions, 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 (in ascending order: Workmate, SR, SR5, Rogue and Rugged X).

Suspension upgrades – including revised shock-absorber tuning, new bushings and improved leaf-spring design – designed to provide a more comfortable ride, particularly over rough roads and with low loads while maintaining off-road capabilities.

In 4×4 models with downhill-assist control, an additional traction control feature when using 2WD mode reroutes torque to assist grip in muddy or grassy conditions on worksites.

Towing capacity for automatic 4×4 HiLux variants – including new double-cab-chassis Workmate and SR5 derivatives – has been upgraded to a maximum of 3500kg to match manual versions. On 4×2 variants, all diesel automatics are now rated at 2800kg, an increase of up to 300kg.

Inside, all models have been upgraded to have an 8-inch display screen with enhanced voice recognition and the latest smartphone integration functions, including the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. SR and higher grades are also equipped with satellite navigation and digital (DAB) radio.

A 4.2-inch multi-information display in the instrument binnacle incorporates a digital speed readout, among other new functions. A wide range of accessories is available to enable customers to tailor their vehicles to their own requirements.

Source: Motor Trader E-magazine (July 2020)

14 July 2020