Heels & Horsepower Magazine

Meet the new Toyota Hilux – Tougher & More Advanced

First launched in 2016, the eighth-generation Hilux debuted with an increased focus on technology, convenience and comfort, while still retaining the traditional Hilux hallmarks of toughness and durability. 

The new model builds on the robust foundation of the eighth-generation architecture and represents a new frontier with even greater dynamic performance, technology, style and features.  

New Grade Strategy : In keeping with a progressive target market and evolving market trends, the model line-up and grade strategy has undergone a revision. The utility-focused S and SR models continue as before, complete with their original front façades. The largest change to the grade strategy takes place in the ‘mid-range’ where the long-serving SRX nomenclature falls away, being replaced by Raider. 

“The SRX model has continuously evolved in line with market requests and in turn advanced into traditional Raider territory. We saw this as an opportunity to rationalise the line-up and offer customers more across the board. SRX and Raider have now effectively merged, creating an opportunity for a flagship grade above Raider – and this is precisely what the new Legend grade will offer,” says Glenn Crompton, Vice-President of Marketing. 

“We’ve also created three distinctive appearance profiles for the respective core grades. S and SR keep their current design traits, Raider continues with its chrome-accented styling and Legend will offer a distinctive new look aimed specifically at the leisure user,” he added. 

The most visible change is found at the front of the vehicle

Exterior Styling: The most visible change is found at the front of the vehicle, with new chiseled, slim-line headlamps flanking an all-new front-grille and bumper design. The new styling now aligns with Toyota’s global truck-design language and gives Hilux a modern yet unmistakably tough appearance. 

Raider:  Raider models feature a large, trapezoidal front grille with broad chrome border and horizontally-separated 3D grille elements. New boomerang-shaped fog lamp bezels and integrated bumper guard round off the design. 2.4 GD-6 models receive an upgrade to four-bulb Halogen headlamps, while 2.8 GD-6 Raider derivatives now boast a Bi-LED configuration with stylised internal-light-guides and LED turn-signal lamps. The side profile remains largely unchanged, with the rear tail lamps also receiving the stylised LED treatment (2.8 models only). A chrome rear-step bumper and chrome door handles create unity with the front design.

Befitting the increased urban and leisure use, Raider and Legend models boast an all-new 8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality

Legend:  The Legend name now signifies a new flagship grade built on the brand equity of the previous celebratory models, to introduce a Hilux like never before. The trapezoidal grille (outlined in black) integrates with the front bumper, bonnet protector and unique integrated skidplate – to create an imposing front façade. Further differentiation is achieved with dark-plated headlamp inserts and a centred chrome inlay, which suspends the Toyota insignia.   A graphite rear bumper and Legend-specific tailgate garnish complete the package. The overall result is a rugged, yet advanced look.   

Legend ‘RS’:  An optional ‘RS’ accessory package (referring to Roller Shutter) will be offered on Legend-grade models which amplifies both utility and aesthetics, offering a motorised roller shutter, graphite-coloured sportsbar, rubberised bedliner, assisted tailgate with central-locking function and dust-defence kit. 

All Hilux models are also equipped with the Toyota Connect telematics system which includes an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot and complimentary 15Gb data

Interior Upgrades

Raider:  A new instrument cluster design welcomes the driver and features an 8-inch infotainment system which incorporates a floating screen-design while retaining rotary adjustment knobs for ease of use. It is framed by a metallic border – reminiscent of high-end electronics. 

Legend:  Legend variants receive bespoke interior treatment befitting their flagship status. A unique accent treatment is applied to the instrument cluster, interior trim panels, switchgear and gear lever. Cool, blue door illumination provides a sophisticated ambience and complements the perforated leather upholstery and black roof lining. 

Exterior Colours:  A total of nine exterior colours are on offer, including the newly-added Oxide Bronze (replacing Avant-Garde Bronze) and a first for Hilux, Pearl White. Attitude Black is exclusively available on 2.8 GD-6 4×4 Legend models.    

More Power & Performance:  The enhancements are not limited to aesthetics however, as the output of the 2.8 GD-6 engine has been boosted by 20kW to 150kW, with an additional 50Nm on offer, bringing the figure to 500Nm (in auto transmission guise). 

New-Generation Infotainment:  Befitting the increased urban and leisure use, Raider and Legend models boast an all-new 8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. This allows users to mirror applications off their mobile phone – for seamless connectivity. Navigation applications such as Google Maps and Waze are natively included and occupants can also access their music libraries and streaming accounts via apps like Apple Music, JOOX, Spotify and SoundCloud. Wireless telephony is supported via Bluetooth with a USB input for additional media options. 

All Hilux models come with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty

Safety & Security:  For the first time on Hilux, the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) safety system forms part of the standard inventory on Legend 4×4 models. TSS integrates a Pre-collision system, Lane Departure Alert and Adaptive Cruise Control – to offer drivers additional peace of mind. TSS joins the existing array of airbags, ISOFIX, seatbelt pre-tensioners and the full suite of active safety aids (ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, VSC, Trailer Sway Control, Traction Control). As before, 4×4 models also include Downhill Assist Control (DAC). 

A comprehensive anti-theft system, speed-dependent auto-door lock function and remote or keyless locking functionality is included. 

Toyota Connect:  All Hilux models are also equipped with the Toyota Connect telematics system which includes an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot and complimentary 15Gb data. Once linked to their profile, customers can manage their vehicle via the MyToyota App. This intuitive app allows on-demand service bookings, vehicle information and history, tracking data as well as Toyota Connect data recharge services and much more – latterly even including the ability to renew your vehicle license online.

Warranty and Maintenance:  All Hilux models come with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty. A 9-services/90 000 km service plan is standard on all models. Customers can also purchase extended service plans and warranty packages via their Toyota dealer.  

Model Line-up and Pricing

SINGLE CABMODELPRICE
S2.7 VVTI RB S 5MTR 386,700
2.0 VVTi S 5MTR 291,100
2.0 VVTi S A/C 5MTR 299,800
2.4 GD S 5MTR 328,400
2.4 GD S A/C 5MTR 337,200
SR2.4 GD-6 RB SR 6MTR 414,500
2.4 GD-6 4X4 SR 6MTR 482,000
RAIDER2.4 GD-6 RB RAIDER 6MTR 447,800
2.4 GD-6 RB RAIDER 6ATR 466,100
2.4 GD-6 4X4 RAIDER 6MTR 520,700
2.4 GD-6 4X4 RAIDER 6ATR 540,900
2.8 GD-6 RB RAIDER 6ATR 532,300
2.8 GD-6 4X4 RAIDER 6ATR 602,400
XTRA CABMODELPRICE
RAIDER2.4 GD-6 RB RAIDER 6MTR 460,000
2.4 GD 6 RB RAIDER 6ATR 478,200
LEGEND2.8 GD-6 RB LEGEND 6MTR 550,000
2.8 GD-6 RB LEGEND 6ATR 574,900
2.8 GD-6 4×4 LEGEND 6MTR 622,000
2.8 GD-6 4×4 LEGEND 6ATR 647,300
DOUBLE CABMODELPRICE
S2.7 VVTi RB S 5MTR 440,400
SR2.4 GD-6 RB SR 6MTR 476,900
2.4 GD-6 4X4 SR 6MTR 549,200
RAIDER2.4 GD-6 RB RAIDER 6MTR 505,200
2.4 GD-6 RB RAIDER 6ATR 521,200
2.4 GD-6 4X4 RAIDER 6MTR 583,700
2.4 GD-6 4X4 RAIDER 6ATR 609,500
2.8 GD-6 RB RAIDER 6ATR 631,900
2.8 GD-6 4X4 RAIDER 6ATR706,400
LEGEND2.8 GD-6 RB  LEGEND 6MTTBC
2.8 GD-6 RB  LEGEND 6ATR 696,200
2.8 GD-6 4X4  LEGEND 6MTR 733,500
2.8 GD-6 4X4 LEGEND  6ATR 765,600
4.0 V6 4X4 LEGEND  6ATR 765,200

New Car Sales Establishing New Roots

New vehicle sales continued to establish firmer ground, recording the third consecutive month of growth since lockdown.

The slow resurgence of sales comes off the back of reduced lockdown level regulations as the country entered Level One during September. Year-on-year results for the past three months have shifted from 29,6% in July, through 26,3% in August, to a market down 23,9% in September. According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa), 37,403 new vehicles were sold during September, up 3,888 units from August.

Some momentum is gathering as economic stimuli slowly return,” says Lebogang Gaoaketse, Head of Marketing and Communication at WesBank Vehicle and Asset Finance. “The month-on-month increase in sales is more reassuring in real terms than the gradual improvement in year-on-year performance over the past three months. There are clear signs of recovery, although there remains a long road to full recovery.”

In contrast to actual sales activity, WesBank Vehicle and Asset Finance data indicates an increase in applications compared to September last year

As much as those nearly 4,000 additional units of volume will have been welcomed by dealers and brands, the harsh reality remains a market 11,737 units less than September last year. “Relatively, September sales down 23,9% compare favourably to the year-to-date performance, which is now 33,4% down from the same period last year,” says Gaoaketse. “That’s a very sobering 132,878 units less so far this year than pre Covid-19 levels of market activity.”

In contrast to actual sales activity, WesBank Vehicle and Asset Finance data indicates an increase in applications compared to September last year. Whether it remains pent-up demand or merely more consumer and business optimism in the market, there are reassuring levels of demand,” says Gaoaketse. “While this isn’t currently translating into sales, it bodes well for the continued recovery of the market as affordability slowly improves.”

WesBank Vehicle and Asset Finance has also experienced an increase in its average deal duration, indicating the knock-on effects of lockdown delaying purchase decisions, as well as the continued stress on household incomes that is translating into current market performance.

Passenger car sales took the largest knock in September and accounted for the majority of the volume decrease year-on-year

Passenger car sales took the largest knock in September and accounted for the majority of the volume decrease year-on-year. At 31,2% down compared to September last year, the 22,798 sales meant 10,322 fewer passenger cars were sold in September than a year ago.

By comparison, Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) sales were relatively buoyant at 12,267 units, down 8,9% or 1,202 sales compared to September 2019. Both segments did, however, sell more units than in August.

Seemingly the long road to recovery for the automotive industry has begun,” says Gaoaketse. “Stimulating conditions to accelerate the return of new vehicle sales is welcome, including aggressive marketing campaigns, but – in particular – the low interest rate environment. Just how long these conditions will remain, will play an important part in how quickly the industry recovers.”