COVER STORY Testing the latest Toyota Hilux

Test Drive Report: Toyota Hilux 2.8 D4-D INVINCIBLE

Many may not know that back in 1968, the Toyota Hilux Pick-up was initially engineered and built by sister company Hino Trucks to essentially fill a niche between two existing Pick-up models – the Toyota/Hino Briska and the Toyota Light Stout!

Possibly due to its truck pedigree, the generations that followed earned enviable recognition and a solid reputation of being ‘indestructible’. Incidentally, the Hilux name was derived from a combination of ‘high and ‘luxury’, which indicated Toyota’s aspirations at the time. Its success as a best-selling utility vehicle rather than a high end family car, might question the accuracy of that branding, but in fairness, the current evolution of the eighth generation Hilux is so refined, that it can comfortably find a place at both ends of the marketplace – be it business or private ownership.

More refined it may be, yet Toyota assures us that by redefining its toughness, any aspect of stress is reduced. In other words, the overall ride and comfort experience has been enhanced, ensuring that long drives from within the quiet cabin are less gruelling.

This has been achieved by developing a new frame structure (with enlarged side rail cross-section) and adopting revised suspension settings. The improvements in refinement are immediately noticeable when on board, whether driving or as a passenger. That said, the Hilux’s off-road capability remains second-to-none and in fact has been even further improved.

Hilux has been a dominant presence in the pick-up market for more than 50 years, recording global sales of over 18

million units

For instance, two electronic Limited Slip Differential (LSD) control functions are now standard on the SR5 grade and above, to help tackle the most challenging terrain. In L4 mode, the Active Traction Control kicks in, while Auto LSD is a new high-tech addition that works while in H2 mode with TRAC-off mode. Even at low engine idle, impressive traction on low-grip surfaces in 2WD mode is achieved. These electronic features are more efficient than a mechanical LSD system.

Model Year 2021 Hilux not only features these dynamic improvements but its general appearance has become more rugged looking, more muscular even. Tasteful embellishments endorse the Toyota ‘toughness’ theme for these latest Hilux models, while it loses none of its capabilities which include a 1-tonne plus payload, a 3.5 tonne towing capacity, 310mm ground clearance, 700 wading depth, 29o approach angle and 26o departure angle. The model line-up covers the needs of many clientele, with the single and double cab variants being the most popular. Specification levels include DLX, SR5 and Invincible. Pricing starts from €29,860 for the 2.4-litre D-4D single cab DLX to €50,750 for the 2.8 D-4D Invincible automatic.

One of the other major changes that this latest Hilux incorporates is the development of a new 2.8-litre Euro6D engine which boasts an increase of 54hp and 100Nm of torque (over the outgoing model). It is standard on the SR5 and Invincible models.

In recent years Hilux has enjoyed high end exposure at the world’s most arduous motorsport marathon, the Dakar Rally, with numerous podium positions and an outright win in 2019. Two FIA

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Cross-Country World Cup titles were also secured in 2016 & 2017.

Sales of Pick-ups are on the increase in Ireland with many new customers attracted to the segment as these vehicles can be individualised, giving them character, unlike an SUV, for example.

Along with the improved driving performance comes an enhanced driver and passenger area, bringing the cabin on a par with SUVs in terms of sensory quality, fit and finish. As those on board will appreciate, the aforementioned smoothness of the on-road journey experience is noteworthy. Actually, Toyota boasts best-in-class performance relating to Noise, Vibration and Harshness. There is better dash silencing, improved engine noise, better engine compartment sound insulation, thicker carpet for the cabin, wider weather-strips for the door openings as well as foam insulation in the roof area. The many standard fittings includes the Toyota Touch multimedia platform, which comes with a larger 8” screen and a Colour TFT information screen with a Go Navigation system within the dash display. Other features on this Invincible model type tested were heated front seats, rear-view camera, leather seats and 18” alloys.

Hiux’ capability makes the difference and gets the job done

Over the rough and the smooth, the Hilux exudes confidence. And another thing, residual values remain high as the market for used models remains strong with buyers willing to pay the price.

SPEC CHECK

MAKE/MODEL: Toyota Hilux 1-tonne Pick-up truck TYPE/TRIM: Double-cab/Invincible

ENGINE/POWER: 2.8-litre DOHN 16-value 204 hp @3,000rpm

TORQUE: 500 Nm@1,600-2,800 rpm SUSPENSION: Front; Double wishbone Rear; Leaf spray rigid axle BRAKES: Front; Ventilated discs Rear; Drum

DIMENSIONS: Length; 5,325mm, Height; 1,815mm, Width; 1,900mm, Wheelbase; 3,085mm

MINIMUM TURNING RADIUS: 6.4m

KERB WEIGHT: 2,125 - 2,340kg GVW: 3,210kg FUEL CONSUMPTION: 9.5 litres/100km (WLTP)

C02 COMBINED: 248 g/km (WLTP) MAX.SPEED (0-100 km/h): 10.7 seconds

WARRANTY: 3 years/100,000km