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n arguably the biggest launch of the year, Toyota has
released its eighth-generation HiLux – the first full-model
change in a decade for Australia’s top-selling ute.
Bringing what Toyota Australia claims is “extensive (six-year)
local development and evaluation designed to conquer the
most severe operating conditions in Australia”, the Japanese
brand’s latest Thai-built workhorse comes with a stiffer body,
complete chassis overhaul, major powertrain improvements
and upgraded safety equipment and creature comforts.
No fewer than 31 variants are available, spanning the usual
array of model grades, diesel and petrol power, manual and
automatic gearboxes, 4x2 and 4x4 drivelines, three new 4x2
Hi-Rider variants, cab chassis and boxed rear ends, and cabins
that include single, extra and double cab styles.
Braked towing capacity is now up to 3.5t for some model
variants – bringing HiLux into line with key rivals – while Toyota
emphasises that 23 variants, including all 4x2s and 4x4 single
and extra cabs, are bona fide one-tonners, with payloads up
to 1,240kg.
The staple 3.0-litre diesel engine has moved aside for an
all-new ‘1GD-FTV’ 2.8-litre unit offered in two main states of
tune. In 4x2 models, it delivers 125kW of power at 3,600rpm
and 343Nm of torque from 1,200-3,400rpm – the same peak
torque as the previous ‘1KD’ 3.0-litre – while 4x4 and Hi-Rider
variants up the ante to 130kW at 3,400rpm and 450Nm from
1,600-2,400rpm.
The latter is based on versions with a new six-speed
automatic transmission; those with the new six-speed manual
have 420Nm peak torque.
At the entry level, trade-oriented Workmate models are
available with a new 110kW/343Nm ‘2GD’ 2.4L turbo-diesel
(4x4 variants offer 400Nm), while petrol power still kicks things
off at the circa-$20,000 mark via an upgraded ‘2TR-FE’ 2.7L
four-cylinder unit – now with dual intelligent variable valve
timing (VVT-i) and good for 122kW/245Nm. A 175kW/376Nm
‘1GR’ 4.0L V6 petrol engine is also in the mix.
The basic formula of a solid ladder chassis with leaf-spring
rear suspension and a double-wishbone configuration up front
remains, but myriad detail changes are said to have increased
frame strength, ironed out the ride and improved cornering
stability, especially under load.
Beefier brakes and retuned power steering (reducing effort
at low speeds, for example) are now onboard, and refinement
is claimed to have improved significantly, adding to the higher
levels of comfort and convenience features in the cabin – better
seats, upgraded stereos, touchscreen displays, multimedia
connectivity, to name just a few highlights.
Safety equipment across the range now includes seven
airbags (including driver’s knee protection) and a host of
electronic systems including hill-start assist, traction and
stability control, trailer sway control and ABS brakes with
electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist.
A reversing camera is standard on all pick-ups – and can be
fitted as an accessory on cab-chassis variants – while 4x4s and
SR5 autos have a new ‘downhill assist control’ feature.
Toyota
www.toyota.com.auToyota HiLux