Reports from Down Under would have us believe the next-generation Toyota Hilux (by all accounts due for introduction in 2024) will sport a burly 690Nm diesel V6 motor. Earlier this week we reported that this monster machine would debut in the Land Cruiser 300, set to be introduced around August this year.
While it may be limited to the top-spec GR flagship (we can only hope South Africa will get this level too when the new-gen makes its way here), the potent six-cylinder machine should generate around 230kW of power, coupled with an impressive 690Nm peak torque. It is certainly more than enough to give the new Ford Ranger Raptor and its 185kW/600Nm 3.0-litre V6 a solid run for its money. It will also mean the current most powerful bakkie in our country – the 3.0-litre VW Amarok which pumps out a more than respectable 190kW and 580Nm – will relinquish its power crown.
While the mainstay of the HiLux fleet is expected to remain four-cylinder turbo-diesel power, the new V6 may be offered in single- and twin-turbo guises and could also find its way into the new generation Prado (set for release during 2024).
The new V6 is not compatible with – and arrives too late in the model cycle for – either the current HiLux or Prado and given their launches are at least three years away, their rivals are expected to turn up the heat in the meantime.
*Source & images: https://www.carsales.com.au
