Hilux. Mention the name and anyone with the slightest interest in the South African car market’s ears prick up. More so when this singularly most important model locally has received an extensive update. We travelled to Namibia to find out whether these changes are enough to keep the stalwart ahead of the growing competition.
“Hilux coming from the front.” Eight out of ten times, the warning message over the two-way radios in our convoy of new Hiluxes, journeying on the long, undulating and dusty gravel road leading from Walvis Bay towards Solitaire, was the same (the exception normally was a Fortuner), making it clear this was the natural heimat of Toyota’s stalwart bakkie.
We were in Namibia for the launch of the latest derivative in the long history of the Hilux, described by Toyota as the biggest model evolution since the 2016 introduction of the eighth-generation range. However, be warned. If you expected earth-shattering changes such as bigger, more powerful engines, dissimilar drivetrains, and perhaps even a bigger vehicle, you’ll be disappointed.
In line with the Japanese manufacturer’s systematic, process-driven philosophy, the changes and improvements made to the latest Hilux are gradual and incremental, and in this sense the new range can be viewed as transitional, a model 8.5 version (akin to the previous VW Golf 7.5).
Some may view these interim measures – with no updates to the engine or drivetrain – as inadequate and insufficient, even glaringly so given the Chinese tsunami of bigger, more powerful and overly equipped pickups that has struck the country.
Yet, the changes are comprehensive, relevant and appropriate; except perhaps for the new edgy, so-called “cyber-Sumo” styling in front with an EV-type “grille” (leading to some calling it the “Omoda-lux” after the first images of the newcomer appeared).
It does take a while to get used to the new geometric look (and in the organic Namibian landscape it looks somewhat out of place), but it’s still better than the dismal “overbite” visage of the original gen-eight Hilux, which, incidentally, had little impact on sales.
Notably, the grille design is contained in a single panel, signifying possible grille variations for upcoming models, such as the GR-S, all forming part of the piecemeal introduction of the new range, kicking off with the double cab and Xtra cab derivatives, followed by the single cab models this month (August) and the 2.4-litre derivatives only slated for next year.
MUCH-IMPROVED SUSPENSION
The introduction of the double cabs in a rain-blessed Namibia incorporated long sections of typical overland dirt trails, and on the somewhat corrugated and dusty route towards Sesriem and Sossusvlei the enhancements on the suspension and steering were remarkable, leading to much improved ride quality (traditionally a contentious issue on the Hilux).
This has been accomplished by structural enhancements to the ladder-frame chassis, revised damping characteristics, altered mounting points, updated suspension bushings, and refined steering calibration by replacing the previous hydraulic steering system with more accurate electric power steering.
The result? Much improved vehicle stability, particularly on loose gravel, and enhanced steering calibration, particularly at lower speeds, also providing increased confidence at cruising speeds on dirt roads, better directional control through corners and reduced steering corrections over uneven terrain.
Additional work on the cabin and engine mounting systems also reduced vibration and noise, creating a noticeably more refined driving experience and reducing driver fatigue on long gravel roads with demanding blind rises and snaking, rock-strewn corners.
REDESIGNED INTERIOR
Besides practical exterior design enhancements such as an integrated sidestep in the rear bumper, revised wheel designs, new name decals, distinctive LED light signatures, and a restyled tailgate, the biggest transformation on the new Hilux is the interior design.
The horizontal dashboard design with strong Prado accents introduces a fully digital 12.3″ instrument cluster alongside a 12.3″ infotainment display (in higher-grade models) with advanced multimedia functionality, creating a sophisticated, highly configurable, and almost seamless digital environment comparable to those in Chinese competitors in terms of scope and ease of use.
An attractive central panel with aircraft-type layout beneath the aircon controls houses rotary controls and push buttons for the driving modes and four-wheel-drive system, and the quality of materials and trim have been elevated throughout the range.
Premium derivatives such as the Legend benefit from soft-touch surfaces on the instrument panel and door panels, refined finishes and comfortable faux leather upholstery for the seats, although legroom for rear passengers is still somewhat limited.
The cabin has several extra storage spaces and multiple USB-C charging points, and through the Toyota Remote and MyToyota applications, customers can access a wide range of remote services and vehicle management functions, including remotely monitoring vehicle status, service scheduling, maintenance reminders, and vehicle tracking.
With Toyota’s latest Safety Sense 3 active safety platform (available in selected models), Hilux customers benefit from enhanced Pre-Collision functionality, as well as improved Emergency Steering Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, Auto High Beam and Proactive Driving Assist, and for the first time in Hilux, from Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Safe Exit Assist technologies.
SIMPLIFIED MODEL RANGE
Consistent with customer requirements and market demands, Toyota has streamlined the Hilux range, with the SRX, available with six-speed auto transmission and two-wheel or four-wheel drive, returning as the entry-level model in the double cab and extended cab range.
The Raider derivatives continue to bridge the gap between work and lifestyle applications with strong specification levels. Like the SRX, the 2.8 GD-6 model comes with a six-speed auto transmission and two-wheel or four-wheel drive. A new Raider X (similar to the Ford Ranger Wildtrak) with enhanced technology, advanced safety systems and elevated convenience features are now positioned above the Raider.
As previously, the Legend models remain the flagship derivatives featuring unique styling elements, high-quality, premium appointments and advanced technologies, including Mild Hybrid technology consisting of a 48-volt system combining an 8.5kW/65Nm electric motor generator, lithium-ion battery and DC/DC converter.
Not only does this system deliver slightly better acceleration performance from standstill, but it also enhances the driving experience in an almost imperceptible manner, whether on the road or far off it, as we experienced during our extended Namibian excursion.
LAST WORD
The stretched-out landscape and wide plains of Namibia with its never-ending gravel roads, some good and well-kempt, others real car breakers, is an appropriate testing ground for a vehicle that has built its reputation in some of the world’s toughest operating environments. For this, one needs a versatile and adaptable, yet tough and reliable vehicle… and in its latest guise, the Hilux as a comfortable long-distance overlander meets and exceeds these requirements.
Yes, it comes with a price premium compared to predominantly Chinese competitors. Still, its renowned reputation and legacy, as well as its resale value and Toyota’s extensive service network, justify this, and the latest, improved range should keep the Hilux at the top of the local vehicle sale charts.
Report by FERDI DE VOS | Images © TOYOTA SOUTH AFRICA MOTORS
