Live the high life in the Hilux

Toyota has updated the Hilux to appeal to private buyers. Darren Cassey finds out if it’s lost any of that commercial charm in the process.

For those looking for a rugged pick-up truck, the Toyota Hilux is truly the go-to choice. However, while it’s long been a bestseller for commercial vehicles, the truck market’s grown massively for private buyers, who want rugged family vehicles to suit active lifestyles. Here, powerful engines are key to success, something the Hilux hasn’t had – until now.

WHAT’S NEW?

With its new focus on appealing to lifestyle buyers, there are a few key changes. First is the 2.8-litre engine, which is considerably more powerful than any found in the outgoing model, while the specification has been improved. Perhaps the most intriguing update is that Toyota has tuned the suspension to perform with an empty bed. It usually tunes it based on a full load, but as it anticipates a smaller mix of commercial buyers for this model, many drivers will not fill it up. On paper, this should fix the skipping rear end common to pickups.

WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?

Although Toyota is hoping to tempt SUV buyers across to the truck market, the interior is still clearly based on a commercial vehicle. It’s nicely styled but feels quite hardwearing, with fewer soft plastics than you might hope for. The driving position is very high-riding too, with the pedals feeling a bit too close beneath you to get really comfortable. Unless you go for the entry-level Active trim, you get the latest Toyota Touch 2 infotainment system on a central touchscreen with integrated Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Top-spec Invincible X models also get sat nav and a new JBL premium sound system.

WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?

Prices start at £22,466 for a six-speed manual and 2.4-litre diesel, and is the only trim that has all three body styles (single, extra cab and double cab). Equipment includes 17-inch steel wheels, PVC upholstery and air con. Icon starts at £26,550, and has a six-speed automatic as well as the manual.

All trims above this are only available with a double cab, with equipment including 17-inch alloy wheels, LED front fog lights, fabric upholstery and reversing camera. Top of the range Invincible X gets the 2.8-litre engine and prices start at £32,533. It gets the extra chunky cladding, upgraded JBL sound system and leather upholstery.

THE VERDICT

The Toyota Hilux has long been a class-leader for commercial buyers, and its attempts to also appeal to private buyers appear a success. The top-spec models have decent equipment levels and a powerful new engine, as well as cool looks that will seal the deal for many. However, for commercial buyers, the entry models will still appeal, as the interior isn’t too plush for a tough life, and our testing proved it’s better than ever off the beaten track.