MORE POWER FOR MOST ADVANCED HILUX EVER
Grunt increases across the range — and a sporty launch-edition coming
Asignificant power bump is the big talking point for Toyota New Zealand’s revised Hilux.
The new 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine pumps out 150kW and
500Nm of torque, a power increase of 15 per cent over the last model and a torque boost of
11 per cent.
Kiwi buyers can opt for the
2.8-litre or a 2.7-litre four-cylinder petrol. Both 2WD and 4WD options are offered with either engine.
The exterior has also been beefed up and falls in line with Toyota’s other models, such as the Land Cruiser and RAV4. The grille is significantly bigger than that of the outgoing model and the headlights also have an updated design.
At the rear, the tailgate and rear bumper remain largely the same, but there are updated tail lights.
Interior styling changes are minimal.
But a new infotainment touchscreen implements new buttons on either side, and this system now comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The automatic 4x4 models now match the towing ability of the manual-equipped Hilux models with a 3.5 tonne maximum. The 4x2 models are rated for 2.8 tonnes.
“A true Kiwi icon, the 2020 version comes with comprehensive safety technology and performance enhancements that make it even better to drive for work or play,” says Toyota chief executive Neeraj Lala.
“It is the most technologically advanced ute ever offered by Toyota.”
Toyota NZ has also revealed that a special launch edition Hilux, custom-built for Kiwi customers, will be released alongside these new models.
It’s been inspired by the heavily customised Gladiator the company created back in 2017. The Hilux remains NZ’s number two-selling light commercial (behind Ford Ranger) for 2020 year-to-date, and the number two new-vehicle overall, outselling Toyota’s own RAV4 SUV by more than 100 units.