Bigger And Better: The Toyota Hilux Moves ‘One Size Up’

KEY POINTS

• Sixth generation of the legendary Toyota Hilux
• Toyota’s second most popular vehicle with over 12 million sales to date
• Built in nine countries and sold in 164 different markets
• ‘One Size Up’ design brings significant increases in passenger and load space
• More car-like interior and improved specifications
• Revised 101bhp (102 DIN hp) 2.5-litre D-4D diesel engine
• Improved five-speed manual transmission with more refined operation
• ABS, driver and front passenger airbags fitted to all models
• Air conditioning, alarm and remote central locking standard on all versions
• CD player with MP3/CD-R compatibility fitted as standard on all HL2 and HL3 models with 6 CD autochanger standard on Invincible model
• Improved noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) performance
• New double wishbone front suspension
• Rear differential lock standard on all models
• Chassis has 45 per cent greater torsional stiffness over previous model for better body control and less cabin noise
• On sale in the UK from 1 October in Single Cab and Double Cab body styles
• Available in the UK in three grades – HL2, HL3 and Invincible
• On-the-road prices from £12,145 (Single Cab 2WD HL2) includes delivery charge, first registration fee, vehicle excise duty, number plates but excludes VAT

The launch of the new Hilux marks the latest generation of one of Toyota’s most successful models. Renowned throughout the world for its off-road capabilities, durability and reliability, the Toyota Hilux has long been the vehicle of choice to tackle the toughest driving conditions.

The new Hilux was designed to the principle of being ‘one size up’ from the model it replaces. This yields bigger dimensions all round, not least in length which has increased by 340mm to 5,255mm. The extra length is mainly in the wheelbase, contributing to greater interior space and a better ride and improved comfort for passengers.

The size of the rear deck has also increased with load capacity on Single Cab models up by 15 per cent and on Double Cabs by 30 per cent. Although the new Hilux is bigger in size, the increase in kerb weight is more modest at an average 131kg across the range.

The Hilux Single Cab is offered in 2WD and 4WD versions, exclusively in the entry-level HL2 grade, with an emphasis on robust work performance. Features include ABS, driver and passenger airbags, power steering, electric windows, air conditioning, tilt adjust steering column, remote central locking and an audio system with CD player with MP3/CD-R compatibility. Built to withstand wear and tear, it comes with seats finished in a hard-wearing cloth and vinyl floor trim. The 4WD version rides on larger, 16-inch wheels and has a rear differential lock.

The entry-level Double Cab HL2 model matches the Single Cab 4WD’s specification with the addition of carpeted interior, a smooth sided load deck, an upgraded audio package with four speakers and body colour matched front bumper and grille.

HL3 grade introduces 15-inch alloy wheels with body colour matched wide wheel arches, chrome detailing on the door handles and mirrors, rear step and grille surround, velour upholstery, electrically adjustable heated door mirrors, alloy side steps, and a Thatcham Category 1 alarm with interior and perimeter protection. The Auto Disconnect Differential (ADD) gives the HL3 improved NVH and economy for two wheel drive driving.

Invincible models gain darkened rear privacy glass, six disc CD autochanger, chrome tubular side bars, front fog lamps and 16-inch alloys.

The Hilux is powered by the latest development of the Toyota 2.5-litre D-4D diesel engine, featuring a second generation common rail system. It develops 101bhp (102 DIN hp) at 3,600rpm and is tuned to deliver two different torque outputs: up to 260Nm for 4WD versions and 200Nm for 2WD models.

Pricing

Toyota commercial vehicle on the road price includes delivery charge, RFL, number plates & first registration fee but excludes VAT.

Overall maintenance times have been greatly reduced compared to some of Hilux’s typical market rivals and the cumulative servicing time up to 60,000 miles is the best in class. This is of particular interest to business users, for whom minimum ‘downtime’ is vital.

Hilux 2WD models only require up to 5.6 hours and 4WD versions 6.2 hours for the standard maintenance programme to be carried out. Comparing the 4WD models also demonstrates the exceptional service time efficiency of the new Hilux, with labour time for the first 60,000 miles reduced by more than three hours compared to the previous model.

The new Toyota Hilux goes on sale on 1 October in Single and Double Cab body styles.

TOYOTA HILUX TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

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