Toyota has released the toughest HiLux ever – a new-generation range that combines impressive global advances with extensive local development and evaluation designed to conquer the most severe operating conditions in Australia.
Almost every aspect of the eighth-generation HiLux has been strengthened, including a thicker frame, stiffer body, new high-torque turbo-diesel engines, advanced six-speed transmissions, beefed-up suspension and brakes, and expanded off-road ability.
Towing capacity is now up to 3.5 tonnes* and payloads are up to 1240kg~ with 23 of new HiLux’s 31 variants confirmed as genuine one-tonners, including all 4×2 variants and all 4×4 single and extra cabs.
At the same time, the latest HiLux offers SUV-like features including a more compliant ride, quieter cabins and higher levels of comfort and convenience with standard air-conditioning, touch-screen display audios, cruise control, more supportive seats and power-operated windows, mirrors and door locks.
New HiLux also has a distinctive Australian flavour with Toyota’s local engineers undertaking an unprecedented six-year program that delivered a new rugged suspension package, enhanced underbody protection, and electronic control systems tuned for more effective operation on gravel and during off-road driving.
More than one million kilometres of testing, including 650,000km in Australia, has confirmed the performance, reliability and durability of new HiLux over the widest possible on-road, off-road and climatic conditions.
A new family of high-torque turbo-diesel engines is headed by a 2.8-litre version with maximum torque of up to 450Nm – a gain of 25 per cent compared with the previous 3.0-litre engine. Its 2.4-litre sibling also generates higher torque of up to 400Nm.
Toyota anticipates the maximum five-star ANCAP safety rating across the range with a reversing camera on all pick-ups (accessory camera available on cab-chassis models), seven airbags including driver’s knee protection, vehicle stability and traction control, anti-skid brakes with brake assist, and trailer sway control.
A wide range of Toyota Genuine accessories – including many produced for the first time – have been developed in tandem with new HiLux, including airbag-compatible bull bars and an industry pack to meet the requirements of mining, construction and other industrial users.
Toyota Australia’s executive director sales and marketing Tony Cramb said the new range is the total package – the toughest, most comfortable and most Australian HiLux ever.
“Australia’s favourite ute has taken the ‘unbreakable’ HiLux DNA to new heights due to Toyota’s global expertise in developing tough trucks and the extensive involvement since 2009 of our local engineers,” Mr Cramb said.
“It is ideally suited to Australian customers for whom towing is part of their life, carrying a load is vital for their job – and they love their bull bars, winches and other accessories.”
Toyota’s expanded HiLux range includes more double cabs, 4×4 and diesel choices plus the introduction of three 4×2 Hi-Rider variants with the ride-height and heavy-duty suspension of 4×4 vehicles. There are narrow and wide-body versions as well as single, double and extra cab styles – the latter now providing easy entry to second-row seats by incorporating rear-hinged access doors.
All four HiLux engines are now Euro 5 compliant – the quieter, cleaner and more fuel-efficient new turbo diesels, the revised 2.7-litre four-cylinder petrol with uprated power, torque and fuel economy, and a more efficient 4.0-litre V6 petrol.
The locally developed and tested suspension package is now standard for “tough” regions including Australia, South America, South Africa, the Middle East and Russia. Tuning and new components – including a thicker front stabiliser bar and larger diameter shock absorbers – enhance durability and provide better control of body roll and impact harshness.
The new range is covered by Toyota Service Advantage capped-price servicing at $180 per service^^.
*Towing capacity is subject to regulatory requirements, towbar and vehicle design and towing equipment limitations.
~Payload weights are nominal and vary depending on options and accessories and tray/body type.
^^Maximum payable for standard scheduled logbook servicing (normal operating conditions) until first of 3 years or 60,000kms (whichever occurs first) (up to the first 6 services). Excludes Government & Rental vehicles. Contact your Toyota Dealer or go to toyota.com.au/advantage for other exclusions, eligibility and full details.
