Toyota has launched a new Hilux. Well, it's not an all-new model, but rather a thorough update and refresh of the existing Hilux.
The styling has been heavily revised, with a new more 3D-style grille. The car in the photos is a top-spec 'Invincible' model which, helpfully, has the word 'Invincible' stamped into the metal of the rear wings and tailgate. Quite how they managed to get such strong metal to be stamped is anyone's guess...
There are also new LED lights front and rear, new 18-inch alloy wheels (although true Hilux fans would always go for steel wheels, of course) and new paint options - Emotional Red II, Dark Blue and Oxide Bronze metallic.
Inside, there are new instruments which mix digital and analogue displays, a new eight-inch central touchscreen (which comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and which also has some proper, physical buttons to help you access its functions when you're wearing gloves etc.
Premium options
There are also some very plush options including smart entry and push-button start, satellite navigation, automatic air-conditioning, front and rear parking sensors, and a nine-speaker JBL Premium Sound System incorporating an 800W eight-channel amplifier and CLARi-Fi technology.
For those looking for options that are a little more practical can choose from hard-working enhancements such as a resin sports bar, an electric aluminium roll cover, tailgate locking, a hardtop and a 12v deck-mounted power supply.
There's a new 2.8-litre diesel engine which produces 204hp, with 500Nm of torque. That'll get the Hilux from 0-100km/h in 10 seconds, which is some 2.8 seconds faster than the old 2.4-litre unit. Toyota claims CO2 emissions of 204g/km and fuel economy of 7.8 litres per 100km, but both figures are based on the old NEDC-correlated test, not the tougher WLTP test.
Chassis modifications
The chassis and body-on-frame construction are carried over, but there have been some modifications. The front and rear dampers have been retuned for better ride comfort, while the rear leaf springs have been changed to provide better bump absorption. There's a new electronic diff, which replaces the old mechanical item found on two-wheel drive models, an updated vehicle stability control system, and a reduced engine idle speed for better control when off-roading.
While the Hilux is, of course, primarily a commercial vehicle, this Invincible model has been "tailored for dual-usage and leisure users who want all convenience and diverse capabilities of a pick-up combined with more adventurous and sophisticated styling and the highest levels of equipment specification." The Invincible gets different exterior styling to a standard Hilux, including a bespoke front grille and bumper, skid plate, over fender, door handle, wheel and tailgate designs. On the inside, there are unique instruments, dual-tone leather seats, and more chrome.
The new Hilux will go on sale in Ireland in early 2021.