TOYOTA HILUX
THE Toyota Hilux is probably the most sought-after of second-hand utes due to its solid reputation, with the high demand keeping prices high and the chances of getting a ‘bargain’ Hilux quite low. The current generation Hilux 4x4 arrived here late in 2015 with three different engines and the usual cabin and drivetrain options. The Hilux is a ute that does most things well enough, although the mainstream engine – the 2.8-litre diesel – is a little underwhelming in performance and overgeared with the automatic and works better as a manual. The 2.4-litre diesel in lower spec 4x4s does an admirable job but is no powerhouse.
If, by chance, you’re after a petrol ute then the Hilux is the only option in this class among the current generation utes. The 4.0-litre V6 in question is a rare find second-hand but is powerful, if relatively thirsty, and offers simplified maintenance compared to contemporary high-tech turbo diesels. The Hilux is also physically smaller than big utes like the Ranger, and the payload and towing capacities not as high in some cases. Like the Ranger, the Hilux is however a top-tier off-road performer due largely to its class-leading rear wheel travel.
THE current generation Triton arrived here in 2015 and is distinguished from the other popular utes by being a bit smaller and not as good for carrying or towing heavy loads, but it’s also handier in confined places and the least expensive of the mainstream utes. This is why its new sales rank only behind Hilux and Ranger. The low new price also translates to low second-hand prices, while strong new sales also means good supply on the used market. If you want a less costly ute than the Triton, then you’ll be looking at a Chinese, Indian or Korean offering.
Recent model Tritons are very strong with add-on safety equipment, while more expensive variants also have the inherent primary safety bonus of full-time 4WD, a consistently underrated advantage that the Triton holds over the other popular utes, bar automatic Amaroks. And in the case of the Amarok, the full-time system is single range, whereas the Triton offers the combination of fulltime 4x4 and dual range.
Unfortunately, while that helps the Triton in a touring role, the limited wheel travel means the Triton’s star fades off-road and, along with the Navara and D-MAX, is a bottom tier off-road performer.