[imagesource: Toyota]

First launched locally in 2016, the Toyota Hilux has continued to hold its spot as South Africa’s best-selling vehicle.

That’s pretty impressive considering the competition out there – I’ve been hearing some very good things about the new and improved Volkswagen Amarok Double Cab.

While it’s pricier than your average Hilux, it packs one hell of a punch. We’re taking 30Nm more torque than its predecessor.

But we’re not here to talk about the VW Amorak, although it does speak to a trend in the industry at the moment.

Automakers seem to be giving their popular vehicles facelifts between new editions.

In keeping with this, the Hilux isn’t exactly what you’d call a ‘new’ car, although it is improved.

Per Wheels24, the changes made are simple but effective. The Hilux’s S and SR derivatives remain largely unchanged (if it ain’t broke don’t fix it). In the mid-range, however, the Raider has replaced the SRX.

Glenn Crompton, vice-president of marketing at Toyota SA, says: “The “RX model has continuously evolved in line with market requests. SRX and Raider have now effectively merged, creating an opportunity for a flagship-grade above Raider –precisely what the new Legend grade offers.”

You’ll find a new front grille with a chrome border on the Raider models.

The 2.4 GD-6 models get four-bulb Halogen headlamps, while the 2.8 GD-6 Raider now boasts Bi-LED headlamps and LED turn-signals.

Image: Toyota

Inside, a new instrument cluster design features metallic inserts, a notched outer ring and metallic bezel. The eight-inch infotainment system incorporates a floating screen-design while retaining rotary adjustment knobs for ease of use.

The ‘Legend’ name will appear on the flagship models of the revised Hilux range. Legend versions of the bakkie will receive bespoke interior treatment with unique accent treatment to the instrument cluster, interior trim panels, switchgear, and gear lever.

Image: Toyota

Nine exterior colours are available, including, for the first time, the new Oxide Bronze and Pearl White.

The turbocharged 2.8-litre diesel engine in the 2.8 GD-6 sees an increase in power of 30kW, bringing outputs to 150kW. Torque for the automatic models has also been increased by 50Nm to 500Nm, while the manual models’ torque remains unchanged at 420Nm.

Image: Toyota

The Hilux is available with both a manual and automatic gearbox, each with six gears. The bakkie is available in 4×2 or 4×4. On the 2.4 GD-6 4×4, Toyota says, towing capacity has been increased to 3.5-tonnes – matching that of the 2.8 GD-6 4×4.

If you’re keen to make one of these your own, pricing starts from R385 700 Hilux single cab 2,7 RB S 5MT to R765 600 for the 2,8 GD-6 4×4 Legend 6AT.

A cool R765 000 for a bakkie, hey – who would have thought?

Yeah, it’s pricy, but still not as pricey as the Amorak Double Cab.

[source:news24]