Hilux keeps going strong, 50 years on
FOR MORE than half a century, the Hilux has been working hard at carving a name for itself as one of the most iconic vehicles made.
In SA it remains a favourite, regularly finding itself on the top of the podium as a monthly best-seller.
In creating the 50th anniversary Hilux Legend 50, Toyota’s applied the hi-tech, high-class treatment across a huge range of models.
We drove the 2.8GD6 model on a two day-road trip across Botswana and Zimbabwe. I came away impressed with the vehicles ability to work as a dirtroad GT car.
Toyota has spent a small fortune on refinements to the Hilux’s manners, and it’s paying dividends as you maintain a full feeling of control – even on the most corrugated of washboard surfaces. In town, too, it’s easy to drive, park and see out of.
The front upper and lower grille have received the full black-out treatment (in gloss finish), with matching stylised fog-lamp surrounds. A stylish silver accent line frames the vertical fog lamp garnish with matching silver lower bumper guard. Legend 50 badging, offset to the left, rounds off the front façade, complemented by the LED headlamps incorporating daytime running lights.
The side profile is enhanced by black side protective mouldings, chrome exterior mirrors and door handles as well as black side steps. A customised rear styling bar with matching Legend 50 badging and a heavy-duty tonneau cover add rugged appeal. Sleek satin-silver roof rails elevate its presence.
In the rear, a black rear bumper, smoked taillamps and tailgate badging complete the visual package. A low-profile towbar is fitted as standard – enhancing utility. The wheel and tyre package consists of Legend 50-specific two-tone 18” alloy wheels shod with 265-60-R18 all-terrain tyres.
The interior space has black leather trim with blue perforation and stitching create a premium feel. A stylish chrome accent strip runs across the dashboard, offset by gloss-black panel trim. Branded silver door scuff plates and carpet set lend a protective and aesthetic hand. The instrument cluster features stylish white-faced dials with orange needles and a cog-shaped motif. A 10cm TFT Multi-information Display with steering wheel control, relays information to the driver (including audio, compass, navigation prompts, trip info and fuel consumption).
All Legend 50 models are based on the Raider specification grade and therefore feature a comprehensive specification list. Smart entry (keyless) and push-start ignition functionality join the specification inventory on Xtra Cab and Double Cab Legend 50 models. All Legend models come with a full suite of active and passive safety features – including driver, passenger, knee and curtain airbags (body-type dependent). ABS, VSC, EBD, Brake Assist and Hill-assist Control round off the electronic safety aids.
The package has been applied to 100% of Raider models across all three body shapes (Single-, Xtra- and Double Cab). All S/C and X/C Legend 50 models are powered by the formidable 2.8 GD-6 engine delivering 130 kW and 420Nm (450Nm on Auto variants). These can be paired with both 4x2 (Raised Body) or 4x4 drivetrains.
Double Cab Legend 50 models are available with either the 2.8 GD-6 or 4.0 V6 (exclusively 4x4 auto) powertrain, while the diesels can be had in either 4x2 or 4x4 configuration.
We’ll take the 2.8GD6 all day, every day. Thank you.