The Toyota HiLux GR Sport flagship variant is set to arrive in September, bringing a raft of mechanical and visual upgrades over the rest of the 4×4 dual-cab pick-up range.
Enhancements include a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine producing 165kW/550Nm being paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, an upgraded suspension system and new styling elements.
The HiLux GR Sport sits on a “wide-track” platform, with a 15mm increase in height and a track width increase of 135mm front and 155mm rear, compared with the rest of the core HiLux range.
There’s different front coil and rear leaf spring tuning, and KYB monotube shock absorbers featuring a larger piston diameter. The removal of the rear sway bar also promotes greater axle articulation and ground contact over uneven surfaces.
Bridgestone Dueler AT tyres, size 265/65R17, are fitted around unique black 17-inch Dakar style alloy wheels.
Disc brakes on all four corners are 338mm x 28mm four-piston fixed calipers at the front and 312mm x 18mm single-piston floating calipers at the rear. They are finished in red.
Other visual elements include a black mesh grille with ‘TOYOTA’ lettering and a GR badge. A redesigned front bumper delivers an improved approach angle and features new fog lamp bezels and a silver lower moulding which sits above a skid plate for extra underbody protection.
Large black overfenders feature aero ducts at the front that help to reduce turbulence in the wheel arches.
There are powder-coated heavy-duty rock rails made of 2mm thick steel and, at the rear, red recovery points and a black rear bumper finish the exterior look, and are paired with a pre-installed towbar, towball and trailer wiring harness.
Inside the cabin, the HiLux GR Sport gains a leather-wrapped steering wheel complete with paddle shifters, red centre stripe and GR logo. GR logos are also found on the front sports seats upholstered in a mix of leather accented and suede trim, matched with grey stitching and red seat belts.
Aluminium pedals, a new ‘Technical Mesh’ dashboard ornamentation, a GR Sport shift lever and all-weather floor mats are included, as is a nine-speaker JBL3 premium audio system.
The HiLux GR Sport will be priced from $73,990 (plus on roads) with full spec details to be announced when the HiLux GR Sport arrives in September.
Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (August 2023)
6 September 2023