New face of Toyota Hilux revealed

Not only is Toyota one of the best-selling brands within the local market but the Hilux model range has been consistently seen at the top of the sales charts. After leaked images of a new Hilux model made its way to almost all social media platforms, Toyota has drawn back the covers and officially unveiled the anticipated model.

The Toyota Hilux in question was created with European markets in mind featuring the familiar 2.8-litre powertrain but sees improvements to both it’s on- and off-road performance with greater comfort, upgraded equipment. Although no indications have been made that South Africa will receive the new model as yet, it has been confirmed that European markets will gain access to range-topping ‘Invincible’ grade Hilux. The model will see to it that occupants enjoy the legendary quality, durability, reliability, toughness and robustness while simultaneously gaining access to premium levels of equipment.

Upfront, customers will notice a new grille and front bumper treatment which matches its tough, robust, go-anywhere credentials. New LED light clusters feature on the front and rear while new 18-inch alloy wheels feature in each corner. Customers can opt for one of the three new exterior colours – Emotional Red II, Dark Blue and Oxide Bronze metallic to go along with the black and machined finished wheels.

On the interior, the occupants benefit from a new 8.0-inch infotainment screen which can be utilized via mechanical buttons and dials for more accurate selections. The infotainment system now features faster response times and better touch screen accuracy and speed and incorporate both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for smartphone integration. The system will allow you to play you favourite music tracks or podcasts through a powerful nine-speaker JBL Premium Sound System featuring an 800W eight-channel amplifier and CLARi-Fi technology.

Further adding to the premium fit and finish is the smart entry and push-button start system, satellite navigation, automatic air-conditioning, front and rear parking sensors. Customers will also be able to tailor their Hilux with a variety of accessories including a resin sports bar, an electric aluminium roll cover, tailgate locking, a hardtop and a 12v deck-mounted power supply.

Added to the European powertrain range is the 2.8-litre diesel motor producing 150 kW and 500 N.m of torque to bolster its sporty nature. The engine will propel the Hilux 0-100 km/h in just 10.0 seconds while being able to return average fuel consumption of 7.8 l/100 km. The 2.8-litre motor will come mated to either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission and to a four-wheel-drive system. Furthermore, all Hilux’s four-wheel-drive body types, Single Cab, Extra Cab and Double Cab, will have the ability to carry a 1-tonne payload and provide for 3.5 tonnes of towing capability.

Sales of the new Toyota Hilux will begin in Eastern Europe in July 2020 and in Western Europe in October 2020. Whether or when the new Hilux will reach South African dealerships remains to be confirmed.