Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) today announced the introduction of the new upgraded Toyota Hilux range in Southern Africa. The range, which is manufactured in South Africa at Toyota’s world class manufacturing plant in Prospecton, Durban, is available at Toyota dealers countrywide and will be exported to 57 countries in Africa and Europe.
The introduction coincides with the launch of a wider range of Hilux Xtra Cab vehicles, as well as the local production of the Xtra Cab range. The Hilux still offers one of the widest ranges of bakkies on the market, designed to offer the ideal vehicle to suit both leisure and commercial requirements.
Hilux – a true world vehicle
The Toyota Hilux remains South Africa and southern Africa’s bestselling vehicle and one of the most popular vehicles in the world. The current platform was introduced in 2005 and more than 5,5 million versions of this tough workhorse has been sold across the world.
The Hilux is manufactured in 8 countries and sold in more than 139 countries, with South Africa an established manufacturing source of the Hilux in the global Toyota network.
“The locally manufactured Hilux is a very important model in the Toyota range in South Africa and has been the best selling new vehicle – bar none – here for more than five years – with around 2 500 units being sold every month,” says Calvyn Hamman, Senior Vice President: Sales and Marketing for Toyota South Africa Motors.
“Nearly 860 000 Hilux vehicles have been sold in South Africa since its introduction in 1969, and as a major supplier of the Hilux and thanks to the local popularity of this vehicle, Toyota South Africa Motors plays a key role in the continuous development and further testing of the Hilux range.
“To this fact several key engineers, including Hilux Chief Engineer Koaru Hosokawa has made several trips to South Africa over the development of the Hilux and in the years since – to interact with customers, study usage patterns and test the upgrades and development of the vehicle that has ensured it remains true to its calling as high quality and extremely tough workhorse,” Hamman adds.
Wide range, multiple options
The newly expanded range now includes 21 vehicle derivatives, which consists of nine single cab models, three Xtra Cab models (increased from two models previously) and nine double cab versions. The range further offers a choice of five different engine options, two drive trains and two gearbox options.
The single cab range can be purchased as workhorse or leisure focussed vehicle and will offer the choice of 2.0 VVT-i and 2.7 VVT-i petrol or 2.5 D-4D and 3.0 D-4D turbo diesel engines.
The Xtra Cab range boasts an expanded range that now offers the option of a 4×2 2.5 D-4D SRX version to add to the choice of 3.0 D-4D versions in 4×2 and 4×4 configuration.
“We added the 2.5 D-4D SRX as an entry level model to the Xtra Cab range as it was clear there was a need for this type of vehicle. Our customers wanted a workhorse with extra space to securely store essential equipment or tools,” says Hamman.
The highly popular double cab range offers a wide range of engine, gearbox and drive train options, including the 2.5 D-4D and 3.0 D-4D turbo diesel engines, as well as the tried and trusted 2.7 VVT-i and powerful 4.0 V6 petrol engines.
The range of engines are paired with either a five speed manual gearbox or a four speed automatic gearbox with AI-Shift control that mates the gearbox shifting patterns the driver intentions and road conditions.
Fresh and bold design
The new Toyota Hilux range offers a myriad of new styling cues that was developed to enhance the vehicle’s modern design, emphasise its tough underpinnings and keep the vehicle truly appealing.
Seen from the front the new Hilux offers the first cues of its tough nature. The new bonnet, with clearly defined centre bulge creates a powerful presence. The bonnet lines flow through to the bold new grille that is a central feature on all Hilux models and is chromed on SRX and Raider models.
The new grille features a new trapezoidal design with wide horizontal slats. On the upper level the new grille is flanked by new headlights, which features clear in-light definition between the different light sections and a slight protrusion that places emphasis on the vehicle’s strong shoulder lines.
Below the grille the new bumper mirrors the shape of the grille. It is in turn flanked by new fog lights, with chromed bezels on top spec versions. The bumper itself has been redesigned to further strengthen the powerful look.
Viewed from the side the new Hilux has several new design features. This includes new overfenders on the Raider versions that give it a wider stance and that tie in with the rear flowing character line. Raider and SRX versions further boasts new side mirrors with integrated side turn indicators and the whole range offers new wheel designs for the steel wheel caps and alloy wheels on higher specification models.
At the back of the Hilux the new rear light design will immediately catch the eye. The lights were penned to fit with the design brief and as such it is bolder, with clear squared off distinctions between the different rear lights. The indicators and reverse lights now feature clear light coverings.
All SRX and Raider models further feature a clear centrally mounted stop light on the rear tailgate.
Modern interior
Step inside the new Hilux and you will be welcomed by a range of design and comfort orientated upgrades. The first prominent feature is the new instrument cluster. The cluster has done away with the cylindrical design of the previous model and replaced it with squared off unit.
The instrument cluster features new analogue instrumentation and gloss black detailing on Base models and new Optitron instrumentation with graduated amber lighting, chrome highlights and finer detailing on high spec versions.
The new instrument cluster shares the cabin’s higher grade materials with a whole new centre console. The console was also designed with the overall bold design theme in mind and is wider than the unit on previous models – complete with new air vents and silver detailing on higher spec versions and new ventilation controls on entry level versions. The design is specifically fitting when viewed with the Raider models’ display audio system fitted.
The new display audio system was designed by Toyota to integrate the RDS radio function, CD player and newly introduced iPod and USB connecting ports. The system will display iPod cover art, track listings and song titles, phone numbers via the Bluetooth mobile phone connection as well as radio stations on the colour screen.
The silver detailing on the centre console is repeated on the new steering wheel on Raider models. The new four spoke steering wheel with high volume foam padding offers silver detailing and new remote controls for the audio and Bluetooth systems.
Toyota’s Hilux design team has also fitted the Hilux with new luxury cloth trim on higher spec vehicles and have introduced two new colours, Silky Gold and Dark Steel Mica to the range. Dark Steel Mica will be available from the first quarter of 2012.
Overhead the designers have fitted a new centre console design with new convenience lights, overhead storage compartment and microphone and speaker system for the hands free mobile phone system.
Increased creature comforts abound
The comprehensive redesign heralds the introduction of several specification advances on all models. Base and Base S models now feature body coloured front bumper and painted grille.
SRX grade versions now offers a USB jack as standard, while single cab models have powered outside mirrors.
The Xtra Cab in SRX grade further have exterior chrome detailing, front fog lamps, an illuminated entry system and audio steering switches.
The SRX specification level is trumped by the Raider grade. Single cab Raider models now feature the high mounted stop lamp on the rear tailgate and the new instrumentation with Multi-Information Display and steering controls.
Xtra Cab Raider models further boasts an increased wheel size to 17 inches, the inclusion of Toyota’s new Display Audio system with USB and iPod connection, a lockable tailgate and a short pole antenna.
Move to the flagship Double Cab Raider models and the driver will find a height adjustable driver seat and automatic headlights. The 3.0 D-4D and 4.0 V6 models also features the inclusion of vehicle stability control (VSC) to compliment the Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) systems.
Widest possible engine range
Three petrol engines, four cylinder units in 2,0 and 2,7 litre capacities, and a 4,0 litre V6 are used to power the various Hilux petrol derivatives. All are equipped with VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing – intelligent) and electronic fuel injection. The VVT-i system optimises the engine intake valve timing according to driving conditions to ensure the best balance between performance and fuel economy with smooth engine performance throughout the rev range.
The 1TR-FE 2.0 litre engine produces 100 kW at 5600 rpm with peak torque of 182 Nm at 4000 rpm. The 2TR-FE 2,7 litre engine, with twin balance shafts for smooth operation, produces 118 kW at 5 200 rpm and maximum torque of 241 Nm at 3 800 rpm. Both of these engines have 16-valve cylinder heads.
In both of these engines modern technology has been adopted to focus on utility with top class performance. A roller rocker arm design with a low friction characteristic has been adopted in the advanced VVT-i valve train to assist in optimising fuel efficiency.
The 1GR-FE 4.0 litre V6 engine has a 24-valve DOHC configuration. This engine is produces 175 kW at 5 200 rpm and has a torque rating of 376 Nm at 3 800 rpm.
This engine has a compact and lightweight design and makes use of an aluminium cylinder block. As with the smaller four-cylinder engines a compact serpentine belt system is used to drive ancillaries. Resin material is used in a number of components to reduce weight.
Two D-4D common rail direct injection diesel engines are used in the new Hilux. Capacities are 2.5 litres and 3.0 litres. Both these engines are designed to deliver top-level fuel efficiency together with smooth and responsive acceleration from low engine speeds right through the medium and high speed ranges.
The 2KD-FTV unit is a 2.5 litre four cylinder turbocharged engine with 16-valve DOHC cylinder head. Two specification levels of this engine are available. In both instances the maximum power is 75 kW at 3 600 rpm. Maximum torque for the normal specification version is 200 Nm available from 1 400 rpm through to 3 400 rpm.
The Hi-spec version of this engine produces 260 Nm of torque between 1 600 rpm and 2 400 rpm. A lightweight and compact conventional turbocharger is used for top performance. The Hi-spec version is available on SRX and Raider versions, while the standard specification engine is fitted to the workhorse models.
The electronically controlled common rail type fuel injection system used on these engines provides exceptional fuel management with a microcomputer controlling the injection pressure, injection timing and the volume of the fuel charge. The system consists of a high pressure supply pump, injectors, the common rail feeding the injectors and the high pressure piping connecting the components.
Fuel delivery is controlled by an EDU (Electronic Driving Unit) that activates each injector at precisely the right time to inject a measured high pressure fuel charge drawn from the common fuel rail directly into each cylinder. The high degree of control flexibility that is typical of these engines enhances engine output and fuel efficiency while reducing NOx and particulate emissions. Combustion noise is also reduced.
The 1KD-FTV engine is a 3.0 litre four cylinder turbocharged and inter-cooled engine, also with a 16-valve DOHC configuration. Maximum power is 120 kW at 3 400 rpm and peak torque of 343 Nm is delivered between 1 400 rpm and 3 200 rpm. This engine shares the electronically controlled common rail type fuel injection technology used on the 2.5 litre engine.
Increased tow rating
Toyota is proud to announce that the new Hilux will feature upgraded tow ratings on several models, ranging between 1 510 kg on the 2.5 D-4D 4×4 SRX and 2 000 kg on the 3.0 D-4D Raised Body Raider.
All Hilux models are sold with a 3 year / 100 000 km warranty and 5 year / 90 000 km service plan.
HILUX PRICING
HILUX
PETROL SINGLE CAB
Hilux 2.0 VVTi R174 000
Hilux 2.0 VVTi S R179 300
Hilux 2.7 VVTi RB Raider R248 300
DIESEL SINGLE CAB
Hilux 2.5 D-4D R198 100
Hilux 2.5 D-4D S R203 200
Hilux 2.5 D-4D 4X4 SRX R289 000
Hilux 2.5 D-4D RB SRX R241 000
Hilux 3.0 D-4D 4X4 Raider R334 600
Hilux 3.0 D-4D RB Raider R286 800
PETROL DOUBLE CAB
Hilux 4.0 V6 4X4 Raider AT R445 900
Hilux 2.7 VVTi RB Raider R312 600
Hilux 4.0 V6 RB Raider AT R375 500
DIESEL DOUBLE CAB
Hilux 3.0 D-4D 4X4 Raider R412 500
Hilux 3.0 D-4D 4X4 Raider AT R424 100
Hilux 2.5 D-4D RB Raider R331 000
Hilux 3.0 D-4D RB Raider R363 800
Hilux 3.0 D-4D RB Raider AT R375 400
Hilux 2.5 D-4D 4X4 SRX R337 500
HILUX Xtra CAB
Hilux 2.5D-4D SRX R247 300
Hilux 3.0D-4D RB 4X4 Raider R359 000
Hilux 3.0D-4D RB Raider R311 000
