Tougher-er Dakar

The Toyota Hilux has earned a reputation for strength, durability and capability, and according to the marketing gurus the new Hilux is even tougher-er than ever before. Similarly, the torturous Dakar off-road race is the ultimate test of toughness for both man and machine – a race in which the South African built Hilux has amassed six podiums since 2012. In celebration of its Dakar race achievements, Toyota South Africa recently introduced a limited edition model aptly named Hilux Dakar.

The Dakar limited edition sports an allnew face, featuring a more prominent trapezoidal grille and ‘squared-off’ design with stylised Dakar insignia attached to the grille, as well as a lower bumper and metallic grey skid plate. The exterior sports a number of distinctive touches, most of which are given a gloss-black treatment. The enveloping interior features an allblack treatment, including black leather upholstery with light grey contrast stitching to create a sporty yet premium feel. The Satellite Navigation, and the touch-screen system also includes an on-board trip computer and customisable home screen, while the instrument cluster features whitefaced gauges with orange needle pointers and bespoke graphics.

Available in either Xtra- or Double Cab configurations, all Dakar models are based on Raider models and therefore employ either the proven 2.8 GD-6 powertrain or and switch-on-the-fly four-wheel drive transaxles are offered, each available in either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.

The Dakar limited edition is restricted to four exterior colours – Glacier White, Chromium Silver, Graphite Grey Metallic and a new Inferno Orange Metallic.

Price: From R 470,300 to R 662,700