The introduction of Toyota’s new Hilux range is a significant move by the country’s largest vehicle manufacturer. Not only has this legendary LCV/SUV shattered sales and performance records and assisted Toyota in earning itself its superb reliability record, but the newcomer is likely to yield significant increases in forex, as well as the ever-useful export credits that local manufacturers use to offset prices on imported models.
Hilux arrived in South Africa in 1969 as a rather puny 1,5-litre pick-up. It soon established itself as one of the most powerful players in the market, and has only failed on four occasions to attain market-leader status. More than 12-million units have been sold worldwide, and it became the first LCV to offer four-wheel drive and double-cab derivatives.
The new Hilux range is comprised of 15 models, with a 16th to follow later this year. There are three petrol engines, four cylinder units in two-litre and 2,7-litre guise and, for the first time, the Hilux is available with a four-litre V6 engine. There are two common rail direct injection diesel engines, which displace 2,5-litre and three-litre, and three specification levels: basic; mid-range, including SRX (additional comfort); and luxury (Raider). Then there is the choice of either double or single cab, 4×2 or 4×4 drive and raised body.
The new range is marketed as IMV (innovative international multi-purpose vehicle), part of a project aimed at global production and component sourcing that brings with it high manufacturing efficiencies and the opportunity to improve affordability.
The larger size of the Hilux provides class-leading passenger and utility space without compromising on turning radius and the vehicle’s ability to work in tight spaces. The suspension and steering geometry are similarly optimised.
All petrol models boast multi-valve cylinder heads and are equipped with VVT-i (variable valve timing — intelligent) and electronic fuel injection. The VVT-i system optimises the engine intake valve timing according to driving conditions to ensure the best balance between performance and fuel economy, with smooth engine performance throughout the rev range.
The diesel variants are impressive and the engines are designed to deliver fuel efficiency together with smooth and responsive acceleration.
Toyota has retained the leaf spring rear suspension set-up, while steering is of the rack and pinion variety and is power-assisted. All models come with five-speed manual transmission, although the four-litre V6 petrol version offers an automatic four speeder and cruise control. The new models are quieter than the previous range, while engaging four-wheel-drive can be done on the fly.
The Hilux leads the pack in terms of fit and finish, engine and ride quality. The range is competitively priced (from R130 000 for the two-litre petrol version to R317 100 for the four-litre V6 auto Raider, and from R150 000 for the 2,5-litre diesel to R293 800 for the three-litre diesel Raider) and comes with a 90 00km/five-year service plan and 100 000km/three-year warranty cover.