Nip and tuck for Toyotas

For 2014, the homegrown siblings – Hilux and Fortuner – have come in for a spot of surgery. Most of the changes take place indoors with both models becoming recipients of the new black-hued dashboard (as opposed to the outgoing grey palette). To complement the new trim colour, Fortuner upholstery changes to black leather for the 3.0 and 4.0 variants, whilst 2.5 variants get matching black fabric.

An all-new multimedia system (with large display monitor) now becomes standard on high-end Hilux models (3.0 D-4D and 4.0 V6 double cabs) as well as the Fortuner 3.0 and 4.0 variants. Some of the features of this new system include photo viewer, video/DVD playback (when the vehicle is stationary), full-colour album art display and expanded interface categories for music downloads.

The Fortuner 2.5 D-4D manual and auto models get an upgraded multimedia system featuring a larger display and boasting added functionality in the form of a Bluetooth hands-free system.

In line with Fortuner 3.0 and 4.0 models, Hilux Double Cab 3.0 and 4.0 models now also come with a back guide monitor as standard.

The Toyota 86, the car that seriously upped Toyota’s fun factor, is another model to receive some tweaks for 2014. Here you have a car that’s priced at the same level as a hot hatch but manages to dish up classic sports car delights – engine at the front, driven wheels at the back, fast throttle responses and quick meaty steering – without the need to be travelling at warp speed to enjoy them.

In response to customer feedback, Toyota has introduced a number of running changes to enhance the 86’s appeal even more. These include a new touch-screen display audio system with Bluetooth functionality, a moulded boot mat as well as daytime running lights and a subtle body-coloured bootlid spoiler – the latter two items are exclusive to the two High models.