The Toyota Hilux, South Africa’s most loved bakkie has been extensively updated. A new model line-up, engine and a host of additional options have been added to the offering. The result is the most advanced, safest and most powerful Toyota Hilux to date. We attended the virtual launch of the Hilux and here is what you need to know.
New model line-up
Toyota South Africa has revised its model line-up offering in keeping with evolving market trends. The utility-focused S and SR models, complete with their original front façades, continue as before. The largest change is in the ‘mid-range’ where the SRX is replaced by the Raider. SRX and Raider have now effectively merged, creating an opportunity for a flagship-grade above Raider and that’s where the Legend comes in.
Hilux in detail
The most visible change is in the front, with new slim-line headlamps flanking an all-new front-grille and bumper design. The new styling gives the Hilux a modern, yet unmistakably tough appearance.
Raider models feature a large, trapezoidal front grille with broad chrome border and horizontally-separated 3D grille elements, new boomerang-shaped fog lamp bezels and an integrated bumper guard. The 2.4 GD-6 models get four-bulb Halogen headlamps, while the 2.8 GD-6 Raider now boasts Bi-LED headlamps and LED turn-signals.
The Legend name now signifies a new flagship grade to introduce a Hilux like never before. The trapezoidal grille (outlined in black) integrates with the front bumper, bonnet protector and skidplate, creating an imposing front fascia with dark-plated headlamp inserts and a centred chrome inlay with Toyota insignia. There is more as customers can opt for the optional ‘RS’ accessory package. RS, however, doesn’t stand for rally sport or rapid sales, instead, it stands for Roller Shutter. A motorised roller shutter, graphite-coloured sportsbar, rubberised bedliner, assisted tailgate with central-locking function and dust-defence kit will be offered as part of the kit.
Nine exterior colours are on offer, including the new Oxide Bronze and Pearl White, a first for Hilux. Attitude Black is exclusively available on the 2.8 GD-6 4×4 Legend. As for the tyres, the Raider models return to a 17-inch alloy wheel in Dark Grey metallic finished with 265-65-R17 rubber. Legend models are equipped with new rugged, two-tone 18-inch alloy wheels with a machined surface and darkened centre caps – employing 265-60-R18 tyres.
Interior updates
The new Hilux features an updated interior with subtle elements which add more in terms of comfort and safety. The 8-inch infotainment system incorporates a floating screen-design while retaining rotary adjustment knobs for ease of use. The system also features smartphone connectivity such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Legend variants receive bespoke interior treatment with a unique accent treatment to the instrument cluster, interior trim panels, switchgear and gear lever. Cool, blue door illumination complements the perforated leather upholstery and black roof lining.
The Legend, being the flagship also benefits from items such as an auto-dimming rearview mirror (standard across all Legend models). Double-cab 4×4 models have leather interior trim, electrically adjustable front seats, a 9-speaker audio system with dash-mounted speakers, keyless entry and push-button start.
Go to match the show
The 2.8 GD-6 motor now delivers 150kW and 500Nm in the 6-speed auto (manual models remain at 420Nm). Toyota engineers have improved fuel economy by adopting a larger turbocharger and a new common-rail injection system. The 2.4 GD-6 4×4 can now tow up to 3.5 tons, matching that of the 2.8 GD-6 4×4.
Toyota has also improved the ride comfort without compromising off-road performance and durability thanks to new spring rates, shock absorbers and suspension bushes, delivering more agile handling and improving ride comfort, particularly when unladen. The Hilux maintains its renowned off-road performance, load-carrying capability, stability and body control – including performance on corrugated dirt roads.
Safety
For the first time on Hilux, the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS, a Pre-collision system, Lane Departure Alert and Adaptive Cruise Control) forms part of the standard inventory on Legend 4×4 models. All Hilux models are also equipped with the Toyota Connect telematics system with an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot and complimentary 15Gb data.
Pricing: DOUBLE CAB:
S – 2.7 VVTi RB S 5MT R440 400
SR – 2.4 GD-6 RB SR 6MT R476 900
2.4 GD-6 4X4 SR 6MT R549 200
Raider – 2.4 GD-6 RB RAIDER 6MT R505 200
2.4 GD-6 RB RAIDER 6AT R521 200
2.4 GD-6 4X4 RAIDER 6MT R583 700
2.4 GD-6 4X4 RAIDER 6AT R609 500
2.8 GD-6 RB RAIDER 6AT R631 900
2.8 GD-6 4X4 RAIDER 6AT R706 400
Legend – 2.8 GD-6 RB LEGEND 6MT TBC
2.8 GD-6 RB LEGEND 6AT R696 200
2.8 GD-6 4X4 LEGEND 6MT R733 500
2.8 GD-6 4X4 LEGEND 6AT R765 600
4.0 V6 4X4 LEGEND 6AT R765 200
*Note that the RS accessory kit is an extra cost of around R80 000
All Hilux models have a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 9-services/90 000 km service plan.
