Toyota HiLux SR5 4x4
THE Toyota HiLux was the best-selling vehicle in Australia in 2016, and leads the sales race once again this year. Here are five things you should know about the range-topping 4x4 SR5 double cab ute version.
1. It drives better with a load in the back Most media outlets (us included) have commented on the HiLux SR5 being too firm over bumps – even by ute standards.
But we suspect that’s because we tend to test them empty.
It turns out the suspension was designed for the HiLux Workmate and SR models (identified by their black steel 17-inch wheels and tyres with taller, cushioning sidewalls).
The SR5’s fancy 18-inch alloy rims look the business but the tyre around them is a different construction and leads to a busier ride.
But with 300kg in the back it’s as smooth as a Ford Ranger XLT or a VW Amarok.
2. The brakes are brilliant by ute standards
Most utes still only have front discs and rear drum brakes – and we would welcome four-wheel discs on future versions of such vehicles.
But the HiLux has the largest front brakes among its disc/drum peers, the biggest brake calipers and, therefore, the largest swept area on the front discs.
This translates to a reassuring and precise pedal feel.
In comparison, the Ford Ranger’s pedal is so soft it feels as if it has four wheel drum brakes.
3. Fuel economy is pretty good
Unladen, we got into 9L/100km territory on
the open road.
But with 300kg in the ute tub and towing a 600kg trailer, we averaged a still impressive 11.5L over 5000km of highway driving to far north Queensland and stop-start commuting in Sydney.
The warning light shows empty when there is still 15L or so left in the 80L tank. Thank goodness Toyota provides ample warning.
I miscalculated distances between remote towns and made it on fumes to the next stop; it
took 77L once I found a bowser.
4. The navigation needs improvement Across outback NSW and Queensland, the built-in navigation routinely selected longer and less direct routes than did Apple or Google Maps. Toyota won’t let you add addresses on the move; you can only tap icons for previously saved or favourite destinations.
A volume dial also would be a welcome addition to the touchscreen. It would be faster and more effective than the buttons on the
steering wheel or the icons on the central display. Especially on bumpy roads.
5. It needs a digital speed display
As the flagship, the SR5 has a superb digital display screen between the brightly lit analogue dials in front of the driver.
What a shame, then, there is no digital speed readout. It would certainly make it easier when switching speed zones. As with many cars, the analogue needle itself covers a few km/h gradations.