/ 4 June 2003

Hilux gets a facelift

Review: Toyota Hilux

The sixth-generation Toyota Hilux, launched in 1998, has experienced a mid-life facelift. Mechanically the bakkie remains largely unchanged, but the styling, particularly at the front end, has been substantially updated to give it a more modern, aggressive look. New fenders, bonnet, grille, valance and bumpers are fitted to all models, while the upmarket Raider models also offer new headlamps, indicators and a fresh striping package.

4×4 Raider versions have new 15″ alloy wheels, and the 2700i petrol and 3,0 KZ-TE diesel 4×4 Raiders have electrically powered side mirrors in chrome. All models, except the baseline two-litre short-wheelbase workhorse, offer new instrumentation clusters, and the range-topping 3,0 KZ-TE 4×4 double-cab Raider boasts dual front air bags to match its 2700i double-cab 4×4 Raider petrol-engined stablemate.

As before, the model line-up consists of 16 variants — short- and long-wheelbase, single- or double-cab, petrol engines in two-litre and 2,7-litre options, and normally aspirated 2,4-litre and three-litre diesels, as well as the excellent three-litre KZ-TE turbodiesel unit.

Four-wheel drive and 4×2 raised-body versions of the larger-engined bakkies suit those who need to use their vehicles in the rough stuff, while the workhorse two-litre petrol and 2400D single-cab keep the formula simple for straightforward commercial use. The petrol 2700i 4×4 double-cab has been dropped, but for those who want a really rugged workhorse for short hauls the newly instituted normally-aspirated 3,0 DE 4×4 double-cab will probably be a better deal at R250 130. With 72kW on tap at 4 200rpm, and 192Nm available from 2 400rpm it should be more than adequate for the job in hand, while offering the ruggedness and fuel economy for which its lowly stressed 5L-E Toyota diesel engine is renowned.

Pricing of the Toyota Hilux models starts at R109 480 for the SWB 2000, and peaks at R303 410 for the Hilux 3,0 KZ-TE 4×4 Raider. All models come with an unlimited mileage warranty, roadside assistance and a three-year rust warranty.