Restyles Toyota Hilux pickup: richer and more comfortable

Simultaneously with the Toyota Fortuner SUV, the related Toyota Hilux pickup was also upgraded. The volume of improvements is almost the same. External signs of restyling, increased almost twice the radiator grille (previously similar was only in the top versions), other bumpers and headlights. The expensive options now have fully led head optics (previously, diodes were only in the low-beam sections) and the design of the largest, 18-inch wheels has been changed.

As before, the Hilux is offered with single-row,” one-and-a-half ” (Extra Cab) and two-row cabs. But basic two-seat pickups are not available in all markets (mainly in Asia), have simple equipment, minimal decoration and stamped wheels. The interior of such “hard workers” has not changed at all.

The update only applies to the more expensive models: they have revised the design of the dials, improved graphics colour display trip computer (its size is still 4.2 inches), and the new media system has increased the screen (eight inches instead of seven), the other interface as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The new option is the JBL audio system.

An addition to the European range is the top version of Invincible, although a similar pickup truck has long been presented in Asian markets under the name Toyota Hilux Rocco. Among the features — a different design of the front, plastic wheel arch extensions, footrests, an arc behind the cab and the original rear Board with the name of the configuration. The Toyota Hilux Invincible is offered only with a “one-and-a-half” or “double” cab, and the interior is decorated with perforated leather trim and black decor.

For expensive modifications, an upgraded turbodiesel 2.8 is provided: it has an improved cooling system, a balance shaft is added, the control program is changed, and the output is 204 HP and 500 Nm. In addition, the idle speed is reduced from 850 to 680 rpm for stable operation when driving off-road. It is stated that a pickup truck with this engine can accelerate to 100 km / h in ten seconds.

However, in the global range there are also old versions of the 2.8 diesel with a capacity of 170-177 HP, as well as the younger turbodiesel 2.4 (150 HP) and gasoline atmospheric 2.7 (166 HP). All engines (including the new 204 power) combined with manual transmissions, but the six-speed “automatic” for a surcharge is only allowed for diesels. A choice of rear-wheel drive (such Galaxy especially popular in Asia) or the transmission with a rigidly connected the front axle. Moreover, the rear-wheel drive versions have an electronic simulation of locking the differential with the help of brakes.

There are changes in the chassis. The rear suspension has received new springs and shock absorbers, now the Hilux should become softer on the move. But no less hardy! On the contrary, from now on, the permitted gross weight of all four-wheel drive versions is 3.5 tons. For example, in Russia, the pre-reform Hilux is certified with a gross weight of 2910 kg. The power steering and stabilization system have also been recalibrated.

In the small homeland, in Thailand, where the model is known under the double name Toyota Hilux Revo, sales of updated pickups have already begun. Entry to the European market is scheduled for July. When the cars will appear at Russian dealers, the company has not yet specified.