Toyota Hilux

Overview

Considered as the toughest mass produced machinery on earth, the iconic, Hilux has finally entered its eight generation. Ruling the segment for more than 2 decades, the updated Hilux is now more comfortable and capable with its updated ladder chassis and improved leaf spring suspension. Although there are no major changes in the new Hilux, the tweaks have done their job to keep the customer’s interest intact in the pickup. So, what can we expect from one of the best LCVs in the market in its latest iteration? Let’s find out in this review.

Interior

The interior of the car may not be instantly attractive still, the overall aesthetics of the car are commendable. The upholstery comprises a high-grade fabric. All the variants are finished in black/grey interiors with a two-tone colored instrument panel. Features like RPM Gauge, digital distance meter, fuel gauge, front seat map lights, automatic anti-glare rear mirror, foldable antenna, air conditioning system are provided across all the variants. Although there is nothing extraordinary or out of the box in the designing across the Hilux yet it is capable to suffice all the standard requirements quite effectively.  The dashboard has been provided with contemporary styling with 2-DIN multimedia system holding its position in the center. The power windows, 2-way adjustable driver seats, and additional storage compartments only add to your comfort functionalities.

Other features include electrical windows with jam protection (driver only), a rear end 60:40 foldable seats and 2-way adjustable driver seat are embedded in the top end variant. The standard comfort features include footrest, 2 glass holders, door panel storage with bottle holder and sun-visors. The leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob add to the plush quotient of the pickup.

The large wheelbase provided offers enough legroom, with the rear 60:40 folding arrangement, you can also increase your boot-space inside the cabin.

Exterior

There is no denying that Toyota Hilux is a beast when it comes to power but the designing applied to the exterior is as elegant as it could get in a dedicated pickup drive. The new Hilux has been provided with a rigid frame structure that contributes to minimizing noise transfer and a superior handling. In layman terms, the designing is tremendously athletic yet elegant and aerodynamic at the same time. Chromium/Sportivo bumpers, chrome finished front grille, turbo scoop, Multi-reflector headlamp, front fog lamps, electrical adjust side mirrors with, side signal,  and door handles with chrome plating gives an upmarket feel. Whereas time intermittent rear wipers, front and rear mudguard and side step complete the array of features alongside a sturdy body structure. The curvy wheel-arches alongside the integrated fog lamps add to the sportiness.

The dimensions of all the variants of Toyota Hilux lie in the range of 5330 mm x 1800 mm x 1690 mm (L x W x H). With a huge wheelbase measuring 3085 mm, a comfortable cabin for the passengers and ample loading capacity for the box are ensured. With a minimum ground clearance of 181mm, maneuvering on challenging terrains will not be a daunting task.

Engine Performance

One can opt the seven variants of the Hilux with either of the three engine options. The smallest of the lot is a 2.0-litre DOHC, 4-cylinder engine with 137 hp of maximum power and 184 Nm of peak torque, which can be opted in the double cab version of the pickup. The widely opted, the 2.7-litre, DOHC, 4-cylinder engine is the next option which comes with a maximum power output of 164 hp and peak torque of 244 Nm. If you are looking for extreme capabilities, then there is also a 4.0-litre TRD, 6-cylinder engine that comes with a massive power output of 235 hp and peak torque of 376 Nm. All the options with manual transmission are equipped with 5-speed gearbox while the automatic version gets a 6-speed gearbox. The most fuel efficient, 2.0-litre option is also the most refined of all. Although the harshness of the 2.7-litre version is improved to a great extent, there is still a room for improvement for Toyota here.

Braking Safety

Toyota Hilux offers a superior control making the handling easier no matter how rough the terrain is. The 4-wheel drive variant allows you to switch to a part-time 2-wheel drive which is ideal for driving on streets and highways as opposed to 4 wheel drive which is preferred on slippery terrains. Double wishbone at the front alongside rigid leaf suspension deployed in the rear act more than enough to provide a brisk handling. Ventilated discs occupy the front brakes while the leading-trailing drum brakes are employed in the rear.

The Japanese automaker never compromises on the safety with high power and performance and Hilux is no exception.  Toyota Hilux is loaded with an array of safety features across all the variants. A lightweight anti-corrosion steel has been used in the chassis which significantly contributes to Hilux's long lasting durability and also ensures minimum transfer of force in case of a collision. Supplemental Restraint System(SRS) has been incorporated which basically comprises of a driver and front passenger airbag that minimizes injury risks in case of inadvertent accidents. Head and leg impact protection system is also embedded which ensures minimum transfer of force and keeps you safe. The 3-point ELR seatbelts, ABS and EBD are other standard safety features of the pickup.

Verdict

Toyota Hilux has been a leader in the respective segment due to its robust engine and off-roading capabilities. It surely justifies its high price and would be worth to spend some extra bucks for TRD kit.