Toyota Hilux launches in South Africa

In the biggest launch in Toyota SA history, they have unveiled their all new Toyota Hilux, with a massive festival to celebrate the legendary toughness of a South African institution.

During this “tough fest” customers invited by dealers will be able to access the renowned Kyalami Racetrack to partake in a number of activities that showcase the abilities of the new Hilux.

What's new about it?

The new Hilux has been redesigned from every angle inside and out. A complete new look for the grill and front-end, tailgate, roof and arches.

The inside sees a complete redesign of the interior with a new dashboard incorporating a floating seven-inch tablet type display that controls the vehicle's infotainment system. The binnacle houses the standard instrument cluster and a multifunction four-inch TFT (Thin Film Transistor) display included in the centre. New materials and interior construction have resulted in 10mm more headroom and 10mm of rear legroom in the cabin, making the interior of the new Hilux very SUV-like in feel and appearance.

Toyota has now included a whole host of technical wizardry in the Hilux.

A 5-star ANCAP (Austrailian New Car Assessment Program) safety rating leads to a host of driver assistance features. HAC (Hill Ascent Control), DAC (Decent Assistance Control), and TSC (Trailer Sway Control) are just a few of the new features to be found in the new Hilux. Two new driving modes are now available and switching between them is taken care of by switches on the console. Eco Mode allows for city driving and optimum fuel consumption while the Power Mode tightens up throttle response.

When the terrain becomes tougher a simple flick of a switch on the dashboard effortlessly changes from two wheel-drive to four wheel-drive and into low range, should you need it.

The new Hilux Auto has a redesigned ladder chassis that has 15% more shock absorption and 20% more torsional rigidity than its predecessor, while the design allows for up to 20% more wheel travel. The global diesel and petrol  engines fitted to the model ranges are mated to either six-speed Auto or Manual transmissions, and the combinations couldn’t be better with power delivery being smooth and effortless even when towing up to 3500kg, while the new TSC (Trailer Sway Control) system also keeps things in check should you be towing that kind of weight around.

How does it drive?

The raised seating position gives excellent visibility while the multitude of adjustments on the seats and tilt and telescopic steering column ensures that you will be comfortable even when you are tackling 43 degree inclines and descents. The power delivery from the drive-train during those climbs is mind-boggling, especially when throwing it in reverse up that 43 degree descent.

The Hilux 2.8 GD-6 Double Cab 4x4 Auto speed that we tested delivers 130kW and 450Nm (manual 420Nm, auto 450Nm) of torque while returning just 8.5l per 100km and 224g/km on the combined cycle.

120km of varying terrain gave us just a taste of what the Hilux is capable, of but if the old Hilux is anything to go by the new model will be even more so.

Just like the outgoing Legend the new Hilux is comfortable in all worlds. Work on the farm Monday to Saturday and take the family to town on a Sunday. It has gained respect and doesn’t at all look out of place in a trendy neighbourhood.

Why should I buy it?

Toyota’s Hilux has been the market leader for over 40 years and has been the best selling LCV (Light Commercial Vehicle) in South Africa for over 17 years. It was the overall best selling vehicle in SA for 2015.

With over 16 million units sold to date worldwide, the Hilux has been in service since 1969. Now into its eighth generation on the global market and seventh locally the new Hilux continues to hold onto its top spot in LCV sales.

The 2.8 GD-6 6-speed Auto Double Cab 4x4 is going to cost you R547 900, which is actually R3000 cheaper than the current outgoing model and you will be getting over R13 000 more value with all the new tech now available.

Hilux price list, including emissions tax on double cabs, and VAT: