Facelifted Toyota Hilux gets notable upgrades and more oomph

The current-generation Toyota Hilux bakkie has been around since the year 2016, and some four years later, the Japanese marque is giving its Hilux range a refresh.

Launching in four trim levels, S, SR, Raider and Legend, the refreshed Hilux bakkie comes with new slim-line headlamps, new front grille and fresh new bumper design.

The utility-focused S and SR models, complete with their original front façades remain unchanged. The largest change is in the ‘mid-range’ where the SRX is replaced by the Raider.

The Raider comes fitted with 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 spawns a trapezoidal grille (outlined in black) that integrates with the front bumper, bonnet protector and skidplate. There are dark-plated headlamp inserts and a centred chrome inlay with Toyota insignia.

An optional ‘RS’ accessory package (referring to Roller Shutter) will be offered on Legend-grade models with a motorised roller shutter, graphite-coloured sports bar, rubberised Bedliner, assisted tailgate with central-locking function and dust-defence kit.

The Raider and Legend models boast an all-new 8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality allowing users to mirror applications off their mobile phone.

Wireless telephony is supported via Bluetooth with a USB input for additional media options.

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.

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.

All Raider models run on 17-inch alloy wheels finished in Dark Grey metallic finish shod with 265-65-R17 rubber.

The Legend models are equipped with new two-tone 18-inch alloy wheels with a machined surface and darkened centre caps. The other models retain their existing wheels.

The 2.8 turbodiesel GD-6 engine has been massaged to deliver 150 kW and 500 Nm when fitted with an automatic transmission. The six-speed manual transmission-equipped models’ torque figures remain at 420 Nm.

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. For bettered ride quality, the refreshed Hilux now comes with new spring rates, shock absorbers and suspension bushes.

The S-grade now features emergency brake signal and the SR-grade receives a Limited Slip Differential (LSD) and Variable Flow Control power steering.

Raider models maintain their generous specification level and in the case of 2.4 GD-6 variants (previously SRX), now also boast side and curtain airbags.

LED fog lamps, enlarged Multi-Information Display and Park Distance Control is fitted across the board, with Bi-LED main-beam headlamps and chrome front treatment also part of the 2.8 GD-6 Raider.

The Legend-grade derivatives come feature-packed, based on Raider specification, including an Electrochromatic (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.

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.

Source: Toyota