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New HiLux: Tougher, Better-Looking, More Capable than Ever (1096)

Toyota has announced far-reaching changes to HiLux that significantly advance the performance, handling and emotional appeal of Australia's best-selling vehicle. All vehicles from WorkMate to SR5 grades will go on sale from 27 August.

Toyota Australia's design studio participated in an international team to deliver a bolder, tougher look for the wide-body 4x2 Hi-Rider and 4x4 extra and double cabs.

The company's Australian engineers were also involved in the global development of a more powerful 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine that noticeably improves acceleration, overtaking and towing performance.

A raft of changes has been implemented to lift maximum power to 150kW and peak torque on automatic models to 500Nm while improving fuel consumption by as much as 11.1 per cent¹.

The local vehicle evaluation and development team assisted in retuning the HiLux chassis, achieving a significant improvement in ride quality when driving without a load, along with more responsive handling and even greater stability when towing.

The steering has been revised for turbo-diesel variants to make parking easier and to produce a more connected and confident feel at any speed.

As a result of the technical changes, braked towing capacity is now 3500kg² for all 4x4 variants while 4x2 diesel variants are rated at 2800kg², an increase of up to 300kg. There are 27 HiLux variants with a payload of at least one tonne³.

Equipment levels have also been expanded, including an 8-inch display with control knobs rather than touch-screen operation for easier use. The multimedia system has enhanced voice recognition and adopts Apple CarPlay^®4 and Android Auto™⁵.

New-look instrument dials sit either side of the 4.2-inch multi-information display, which incorporates a digital speed readout, among other new functions.

Toyota Australia Vice President Sales and Marketing Sean Hanley said the first major updates to the eighth-generation HiLux are the result of customer feedback.

"HiLux fans will appreciate the bold new look as well as the performance boost from our biggest-selling engine that makes towing and overtaking even easier in all conditions, including heading up a hill on a 40-degree summer's day,"

"They will also find HiLux more fun to drive with sharper handling and an unladen ride quality that is now vastly improved, without compromising its body control when carrying a load over undulating roads," he said.

"Such significant improvements to Australia's favourite ute will inspire even greater go-anywhere confidence in HiLux's dual role as a rugged workhorse and a family vehicle with the comfort and convenience of an SUV."

Recommended retail pricing for the core HiLux range - Workmate, SR and SR5 - starts at $23,590⁶.

HiLux 4x4 SR double-cab pick-ups can be specified with a $2,000⁶ option pack that includes 17-inch alloy wheels, satellite navigation⁸ and digital (DAB) radio⁹. A $2,500⁶ option for 4x4 SR5 double cabs adds leather-accented seats and door trim, and heated front seats with 8-way power adjustment for the driver and 4-way manual adjustment for the passenger. These two options extend the core HiLux range to 33 variants.

Design features, technical details and pricing for the HiLux Rogue and HiLux Rugged X will be announced later.

¹ Achieved in test conditions for comparison purposes only. Actual fuel consumption varies depending on driving conditions/style, vehicle condition, load and options/accessories fitted. Source: ADR81/02 combined (litres/100km) for auto models.
² Towing capacity is subject to regulatory requirements, towbar and vehicle design and towing equipment limitations.
³ Weights/mass/volumes/dimensions are approximate and subject to individual vehicle variances, and should be confirmed before fitting any accessories, towing or otherwise relying on this value.
⁴ CarPlay^® is a trademark of Apple, Inc. registered in the U.S. and other countries. Requires compatible device, USB connection, mobile data, network reception & GPS signal. Mobile usage at user's cost. Apps subject to change. For details see toyota.com.au/connected.
⁵ Android Auto™ is a trademark of Google LLC. Requires compatible device, USB connection, mobile data, network reception & GPS signal. Mobile usage at user's cost. Apps subject to change. For details see toyota.com.au/connected.
⁶ Manufacturer's recommended retail prices provided for media purposes only. Statutory charges or other on-road costs not included.
⁷Driver assist feature. Only operates under certain conditions. Check your Owner's Manual for explanation of limitations. Please drive safely.
⁸Coverage varies based on vehicle location.

View the current HiLux range