The upgraded Toyota HiLux range has gone on sale in Australia, bringing with it new V-Active technology.
Available on select 4×4 double-cab SR, SR5 grades as well as the Rogue, V-Active technology adds a motor generator, 48-volt battery and DC/DC converter to the 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder powertrain and six-speed automatic transmission.
The addition of V-Active technology allows for the fitment of a stop-start system to the turbo-diesel engine which Toyota claims can help reduce fuel consumption by up to approximately 10 per cent compared to 2.8-litre engines without V-Active technology.
Fitting a 48-volt system also allows the engine to be switched off for longer than a typical internal-combustion engine when stopped in traffic, with owners able to choose from either a ‘Normal’ or ‘Long’ setting, increaseing the time the engine is switched off while air conditioning is running. Engine idling speed is reduced in V-Active technology grades, reduced from 720rpm to 600rpm.
Braking energy is recovered by the motor generator when decelerating.
When accelerating, the motor generator can contribute power assistance in areas of lower engine efficiency.
HiLux variants equipped with V-Active technology add Multi-Terrain Select (MTS), which includes six selectable modes.
The upgraded HiLux range sees all core HiLux grades with the exception of the WorkMate and SR single-cab and petrol variants gain a new front-end visual refresh which includes new front bumpers and a honeycomb mesh grille.
At the rear, WorkMate, SR, SR5 and GR Sport get a gloss black rear bumper while the Rogue sports a dark grey finish.
SR5 grades add dark-finished LED headlamps, gloss black exterior mirrors, door handles, tailgate handle and powder-coated sports bar for pick-up body styles.
All pick-up grades get a tailgate damper with lift assist. SR double-cab pick-ups with automatic transmissions add front and rear parking sensors.
Double-cab automatic SR5 grades gain a wireless charger which is also applied to the Rogue and GR Sport, along with two rear USB-C ports.
Pricing for the new HiLux range starts from $26,475 (plus on-roads) for the entry-level 4×2 WorkMate single-cab chassis, while V-Active technology is available starting with the 4×4 SR double-cab chassis from $54,130 (plus on-roads).
Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (April 2024)
6 May 2024