- It’s tough. Really tough. Driving around the plantation will be no issue for the plantation manager to do his inspection even when there is a fallen tree, a deep hole or even a slippery trail.
- The cabin has 7-airbags just like the plantation manager’s company issued Toyota Camry.
- The drivers seat is leather bound, fully electric and torso hugging just like with his Camry.
- The entertainment system is a 6.1-inch touchscreen with a DVD player, USB/AUX/Bluetooth compatibility as well as reverse camera and there are six speakers to deliver a Camry cabin like entertainment.
- Always good to know you are driving a Hilux when you are dealing with Klang Valley’s many potholes, broken tarmac and patchy road surfaces. This is when the plantation manager needs to come to the city for a business meeting and decides to leave his Camry at the plantation bungalow.
- It still remains a best-seller and so parts and servicing will be no issue just like with his Camry.
- It will be surprisingly fuel efficient with the new 6-speed gearbox. The 2,755cc engine (2.8 D-4D unit) develops 177bhp at 3,400 rpm, and maximum torque of 450Nm between 1,600 and 2,400 rpm. The fuel efficiency has improved by 9% over the diesel engine it replaces.
- With a 217mm ground clearance, the Hilux offers a commanding driving position, offering the plantation manager plenty of forward vision when on the road and also when doing some river and small mud trail crossings.
This Hilux is every inch a modern-looking pick-up, from the impressively rugged front grille and bonnet bulge to the solid tailgate. Time for a test drive.
Toyota Hilux 2.8G (AT) Specifications
Engine: 4-cylinder DOHC intercooler VNT diesel
Capacity: 2,755 cc
Power: 177 PS @ 3,400 rpm
Torque: 450 Nm @ 1,600 – 2,400 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed
Price: RM133,900
