First Drive: Toyota Hilux

There are tough times in the bakkie market for the once invincible Toyota Hilux. Yes, 5.5 million have been sold worldwide and 850 000 Hilux’s sold locally since 1969, and 41% of the bakkie market is secure in the Japanese manufacturers hands, but there are grumblings across big sky country, be in no doubt.

The prolific, new Volkswagen Amarok has done more than just move the bakkie market on, it’s changed the rules completely. And the preeminent arrival of the new, awe-inspiring Ford Ranger is yet another cause for concern. Even the Mitsubishi Triton has been given a new lease on life since its move from Mercedes Benz to Imperial Motor Group control. Toyota had their run of the bakkie market for long enough, unimpeded, but the latest developments in new product, through renewed, healthy competition over the last two years, has left them having to toughen their act up.

Hence the introduction of an upgraded Toyota Hilux range. The current platform was introduced in 2005 and has undergone no mechanical changes. The upgraded range, which is manufactured in Durban, will also be exported to 57 countries in Africa and Europe. The introduction coincides with the launch of a wider range of Hilux Xtra Cab vehicles, as well as the local production of the Xtra Cab range.

The newly expanded range now includes 21 vehicle derivatives, which consists of nine single cab models, three Xtra Cab models (increased from two models previously) and nine double-cab versions. The range further offers a choice of five different engine options, two drive trains and two gearbox options. But what you’ll most want to know about is the new blinged up face. A new style for the conservative Hilux, designed to enhance the vehicle’s modernness, but still emphasise its toughness and hopefully keep it appealing.

The new bonnet has a clearly defined centre bulge for a powerful presence. The bonnet lines flow through to the bold trapezoidal design with wide horizontal slated grille that is extra chromed on SRX and Raider models. On the upper level the new grille is flanked by new headlights. The bumper itself has also been redesigned. New overfenders on the Raider versions give it a wider stance. Raider and SRX versions further boast new side mirrors with integrated indicators and the whole range offers new wheel designs. All SRX and Raider models feature a clear centrally mounted stop light on the rear tailgate.

On the inside the first prominent feature you’ll see is the new instrument cluster, with the cylindrical design of the previous model replaced with a squared off unit. The new centre console is wider than the unit on previous models – complete with new air vents and silver detailing on higher spec versions. There’s a new display audio system by Toyota, which integrates the RDS radio function, CD player and newly introduced iPod and USB connecting ports. The silver detailing on the centre console is repeated on the new steering wheel remote controls for the audio and Bluetooth systems on Raider models.

There are several specification advances on all the Hilux models: Base and Base S models now feature body coloured front bumper and painted grille. SRX grade versions now offers a USB jack as standard, while single cab models have powered exterior mirrors. The Xtra Cab in SRX grade has exterior chrome detailing, front fog lamps, an illuminated entry system and audio steering switches. The SRX specification level is trumped by the Raider grade. Single-cab Raider models now feature the high mounted stop lamp on the rear tailgate and the new instrumentation with Multi-Information Display and steering controls. Xtra Cab Raider models also feature an increased wheel size to 17-inches, the inclusion of Toyota’s new Display Audio system with USB and iPod connection, a lockable tailgate and a short pole antenna.

Move to the flagship Double Cab Raider models and the driver will find a height adjustable driver seat and automatic headlights. The 3.0 D-4D and 4.0 V6 models also features the inclusion of vehicle stability control (VSC) to compliment the Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) systems.

The single cab range can be purchased as workhorse or leisure focussed vehicle and will offer the choice of 2.0 VVT-i and 2.7 VVT-i petrol or 2.5 D-4D and 3.0 D-4D turbo diesel engines. The Xtra Cab range boasts an expanded range that now offers the option of a 4×2 2.5 D-4D SRX version to add to the choice of 3.0 D-4D versions in 4×2 and 4×4 configuration.

The highly popular double cab range offers a wide range of engine, gearbox and drive train options, including the 2.5 D-4D and 3.0 D-4D turbo diesel engines, as well as the 2.7 VVT-i and 4.0 V6 petrol engines. The range of engines are paired with either a five speed manual gearbox or a four speed automatic gearbox.

Just to recap the unchanged Hilux engines: the 2.0-litre produces 100 kW at 5 600 r/min with peak torque of 182 Nm at 4000 r/min. The 2.7-litre produces 118 kW at 5 200 r/min and maximum torque of 241 Nm at 3 800 r/min. The 4.0 litre V6 engine produces 175 kW at 5 200 r/min and has a torque rating of 376 Nm at 3 800 r/min.

Two D-4D common rail direct injection diesel engines are used in the new Hilux. Their capacities are 2.5-litres and 3.0-litres. The 2.5-litre appears in two specification levels. In both instances the maximum power is 75 kW at 3 600 r/min. Maximum torque for the normal specification version is 200 Nm available from 1 400 r/min through to 3 400 r/min. The Hi-spec version produces 260 Nm of torque between 1 600 r/min and 2 400 r/min. A lightweight turbocharger is used for top performance. The Hi-spec version is available on SRX and Raider versions, while the standard specification engine is fitted to the workhorse models. The 3.0-litre has maximum power of 120 kW at 3 400 r/min and peak torque of 343 Nm is delivered between 1 400 r/min and 3 200 r/min. This engine shares the electronically controlled common rail type fuel injection technology used on the 2.5-litre engine.

All Hilux models are sold with a 3 year / 100 000 km warranty and 5 year / 90 000 km service plan.

Ray Leathern has been test driving and critiquing cars for four years now. You’ll find his work at autocirca.com, the Mail & Guardian and of course, right here on SACarFan.

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