New Toyota HiLux - Rugged and Rogue
Toyota has reworked its HiLux range with a view to cashing in on demand for high-end utes.
Already Australia’s best-selling car for the past two years, the HiLux will be augmented by three new models in the road-ready HiLux Rogue along with a Rugged and Rugged X duo intended for off-road use.
Toyota used the mid-range HiLux SR as the basis for the Rugged, which features a proper bullbar, side protection rails, underbody armour, new 17-inch wheels, an air snorkel, four-piece metal sports bar and red-painted tow points for $54,990 plus on-road costs.
Rugged X models based on the top-end HiLux SR5 feature a new front bar with spot lights and a new LED driving light strip, along with heated leather seats, restyled driving instruments, a black headlining and more for $61,690 plus on-road costs.
Both models feature the same 2.8-litre, fourcylinder turbo diesel engine as regular elements of the HiLux range, which produces 130kW and 430Nm in manual form or 130kW and 450Nm when mated to a six-speed automatic transmission which cost an extra $2000.
New HiLux Rogue models with a more urban focus are only available with the automatic transmission, along with 18-inch wheels, a new front bumper and grille and a hard tonneau cover over a carpeted tray for $61,690 plus on-road costs.
Toyota says Rugged and Rugged X models offer additional off-road ability. As with the HiLux SR5, automatic models can tow 3500kg, while manual versions can tow 3200kg.
Rugged models receive updated front springs to account for heavier components.
Toyota’s Australian arm designed key elements for the new models, which will not be offered as accessories for regular cars in the short term. Most parts are made locally by suppliers such as ARB and Frontline and fitted by technicians in Melbourne.
The new models go on sale at the end of April at Warragul Toyota LMCT 11009.