With over 16 million Toyota Hilux pick-ups sold to date, the brand has readied its eighth-generation car for launch in mainland Europe. The new car aims to combine its legendary reputation for durability with a fresh new look and a more SUV-like drive.
The new pick-up has a new and stronger ladder chassis, reinforced deck structure, enhanced 4x4 capabilities and improved towing capabilities.
The Hilux has grown 90mm in length, is 20mm wider and 5mm lower than its predecessor, improving internal space and load carrying - while towing capacity has improved to 3.2 tonnes.
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Two new engines feature in the new Hilux: a 2.4-litre D-4D and 2.8-litre D-4D diesel engine, which Toyota claims will provide class-leading fuel economy. The existing 2.5 D-4D diesel unit is carried over to the new model, while there is an improved version of the Dual VVT-i 2.7-litre petrol engine.
Toyota claims fuel economy has been improved by up to nine per cent. With a manual gearbox, the 2.4 D-4D returns 38mpg with the 2.8 D-4D returning 33mpg when mated to an auto box.
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The new Hilux gets a new exterior design with better equipment - daytime running lights with 12 white LEDs feature, while the main design changes are focused on the front grille, light clusters and bumpers. Either 17-inch or 18-inch alloy wheels are available, plus three new paint colours: Orange Spice, Volcano Red and Hydro Blue.
A new seven-inch touch-screen infotainment system dominates the dash, and all models get Traction Control (A-TRC), Downhill Assist Control (DAC) and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC).
Toyota has only announced the Hilux’s mainland Europe release at present, with no news on a release date, specifications or prices for the UK.
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