Customers want more from a Japanese pick-up, and now we have the Toyota Hilux GR Sport II.
Toyota has been moving the Hilux pick-up truck closer towards the lifestyle-oriented Ford pick-up trucks over the years. Even in our neck of the woods, the Hilux got a Rogue variant and more recently a GR Sport variant. Now, Toyota have made part 2!
The Toyota Hilux GR Sport II will arrive in European showrooms in the second half of next year in double cab form only. It boasts a best-in-class towing capacity of 3500kg and payload of 1000kg.
Compared to the first generation Hilux GR Sport, this Hilux GR Sport II has a wider track. It’s 140mm wider at the front and 155mm wider at the rear when compared to the standard Toyota Hilux. This wide helps it get a bit closer to the Ford Ranger in terms of its imposing looks while also improving ride in adverse road conditions.
Toyota are boasting that this is the best-driving Hilux ever thanks to the wider tread, reduced roll angle and precise steering response. Not only that, but the suspension and brakes have also been enhanced.
The same proven 2.8L turbo diesel engine that first debuted in 2020 returns here with 204hp and 500Nm of torque. Also returning is the 6-speed automatic transmission. Here are the technical changes in full:
- Approach angle increased from 29 degrees to 30 degrees
- Ground clearance increased by 20mm
- tread increased by 140mm in front and 155mm at the rear
- Drag efficiency improved and turbulence reduced with new bumper, air curtain structure, aero sports bar and deck cover
- Better damping performance and faster response thanks to a monotube piston with a larger piston area instead of the current twin tube solution
- Enhanced grip and stability with new lighter 17″ wheels
- Improved stopping power thanks to larger 17″ brake discs in front and 15″ discs at the rear instead of drum brakes
In terms of design there’s plenty to look forward to as well. At the front end, you get a black G mesh front grille with the classic ‘TOYOTA’ branding across it. Black side steps, mirror caps and door handles are included as well. There’s also a black rear bumper, GR Sport logos and a silver protective front underguard to complete the look. More subtler changes include the new 17″ black alloy wheels, red brake calipers, red coil springs and red monotube suspension.
Inside, a black monochrome theme gets some contrast from red accents on the seat belts. There are also aluminium sport pedals, paddle shifters, black suede and leather sport seats with silver stitching and perforation.
There’s an 8″ infotainment system with Toyota Smart Connect, wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. There’s a new trim piece design on the door cards and dashboard with GR details on the information display. Another change inside is the car’s availability to receive over-the-air updates.
