Hot HiLux GR Sport coming back
Updated 9 hours ago
Toyota put a lot of effort into developing the current wide-track version of its top-selling HiLux ute and for now it’s a notable absence in the new-generation model line-up.
The Japanese carmaker likely won’t let all of this work go to pasture given the new-generation model is more of an iteration of the outgoing model, despite Toyota labelling it as an all-new generation.
This means it could be poised for a return.
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The wide track was meant to create more stability and performance on- and off-road over the standard HiLux.
While the previous-generation wide-track HiLux launched in Rogue trim in 2022, it also formed the basis of the GR Sport flagship.
In response to this, digital artist Theottle has created renderings of what the new-generation HiLux GR Sport could look like.
Like the outgoing model, it features swollen wheel arches to house the widened wheel track.
There are also all the hallmarks of the new, current-generation HiLux. These include the new front fascia with the squarer grille, thinner headlights and revised front foglight placement.
At the back there’s also the new rear tailgate with ‘Toyota’ embossing, different tail-lights, as well as the new step for getting into the tub and the revised sports bar.
It’s likely the majority of the other tweaks under the skin will carry over, including the outboard damper installation and rear stabiliser bar.
At this stage it’s unclear what will be under the bonnet of this new HiLux GR Sport if it comes to fruition.
The outgoing model featured a more powerful tune of the 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel, producing 165kW and 550Nm. Increases of 15kW and 50Nm over the standard tune.
As it currently stands, the new-generation HiLux is offered with the standard 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel, as well as the V-Active technology 48V mild-hybrid option which adds an electric motor but doesn’t increase power or torque outputs.
If Toyota still plans for the HiLux GR Sport to make more power and torque than the rest of the line-up, it could retain the more-powerful 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel.
Another option could be bumping the power and torque outputs of the V-Active technology 48V mild-hybrid engine by increasing the turbo boost pressure and fuel injection, or by adding a more powerful electric motor.
It’s unlikely Toyota will add a fire-breathing petrol engine in the new HiLux GR Sport to rival the twin-turbo V6 petrol-powered Ranger Raptor. If it did it however, it would be a call back to the TRD HiLux of the late ‘00s with the 4.0-litre supercharged V6 petrol engine. This is still the most powerful HiLux to date.
Toyota did notably axe the venerable 2.7-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine in this new-generation HiLux as this engine is currently only capable of achieving Euro 5 emission standards.
Until the new-generation HiLux GR Sport arrives, the toughest variant currently offered is the Rugged X which is based on the Rogue but features a number of locally fitted accessories. All are based on the standard-track model.
As previously reported, it’s been 10 years since a new-generation HiLux was launched.
While it is still based on an updated version of the IMV body-on-frame platform as the pre-update model and features the same wheelbase and door skins, there have been some tweaks under the skin.
There is a revised suspension range-wide, with light- and heavy-duty options, along with new mounts and stiffening to reduce noise and vibration.
Inside is where the biggest changes have happened. There’s a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster available, along with a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.