Story & photo by Ronald Rey M. de los Reyes
NOW, this is not about the Lannisters, Starks, Targaryans and what not. Rather, it’s about the D-Max, Ranger, Navara, Strada and, of course, the Hilux. Yes—the pickup wars. And currently, these ironclad workhorses are taking up arms—head on.
In fact, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) recently amplified its arsenal with the launch of the eighth-generation Toyota Hilux; thus, staying true to its name, which combines the words “high” and “luxury” that underline the vehicle’s competitive edge.
In a two-day launch-cum-test drive event, TMP introduced the Hilux’s all-new model designed for toughness and comfort.
“More daring and definitely more powerful than ever before, we can’t help but be proud of what we have prepared for you,” TMP President Michinobu Sugata said.
“Let our event speak when we say that this vehicle is definitely ‘Every Inch a Hilux,’” he added.
The all-new Hilux boasts of a powerful and stylish front design suggesting the look of a “next-generation” pickup truck. Up front, it carries a contrasting fine line between toughness and refinement as its thick bumper contradicts its thin grille and headlamps. The Hilux sports the signature Toyota “under-priority and keen look,” which offers customers a more appealing shape.
More so, it exudes an all-terrain vehicle for any road weekend warrior, who craves for fun and adventure as it displays a wider and more stable stance, evident of its continuous flow of lines with protruding wheel flares. Its lower side body, meanwhile, is emphasized for a more secure look. The top-of-the-line 4×4 and 4×2 (G Grade) models are equipped with a side step and 17-inch alloy wheels for a sportier look. Moreover, its cabin area’s contour seamlessly connects to the deck area which portrays an element of strength.
More than just its exterior looks, the major changes done for this new-generation pickup include a chassis with enlarged side rail cross-sections, an upgraded rear leaf spring suspension and shock absorbers for enhanced off-road performance and comfort.
It’s 70 mm longer and 20 mm wider with a slightly lower roofline. Toyota’s new 1GD turbo diesel engine breathes out an output of 177 hp at 3,400 rpm and 450 Nm at 1,600 to 2,400 rpm.
The 1GD engine is said to provide excellent torque at all rev ranges, reduced engine noise and better fuel efficiency. It’s mated to a new six-speed manual transmission with optimized gear ratios. A six-speed automatic is also available. Meanwhile, lower-end variants also benefit from another all-new engine, the 2GD turbo diesel engine. With a displacement of 2.4 liters, it generates 147 hp at 3,400 rpm and 400 Nm from 1,600 to 2,000 rpm.
All these models benefit from a larger, 80-liter fuel tank.
Once you step inside, a perfect balance of style and function throughout the cabin can easily be noticed. It can seat up five occupants comfortably. It has bigger leg room and offers greater front-seat comfort with larger head room and shoulder room.
The G grade offers advancement with its new 6.5 Capacitive Touch Screen Display Audio with multiple functionalities such as MP3/Bluetooth/USB Capability and Navigation, opt intron meter with illuminated needles and many others.
This new pickup holds an intelligent manual transmission system (iMT), created to support smooth shift changes by detecting the driver’s operations and automatically controlling the engine speed to match the transmission speed.
Asked how he sees this new model in the very competitive market, Sugata said: “We’re again aiming No.1 Registering 56,417 units for 22 years now, it’s a clear indication of how this model has been loved by thousands of our customers.”
Sugata ended, “The ‘King of Pickups’ returns.”
Image credits: Ronald Rey M. de los Reyes