Toyota unveils ‘rally-inspired’ GR Sport HiLux
New version of the country’s number one selling ute is inspired by the company’s success with its Dakar Rally-winning off-road machines.
Toyota has unveiled a “rally-inspired” version of its HiLux ute with sporty additions inspired by desert racing.
To be sold in Europe as the Toyota HiLux GR Sport, the new model represents a
cosmetic upgrade over its dual-cab ute.
Closer in nature to the sharp-looking but by no means overpowered Toyota C-HR GR Sport than the turbocharged, all-wheel-drive Toyota GR Yaris, the HiLux gets fresh looks, revised suspension and an upgraded interior.
The car’s 2.8-litre, 150kW turbo diesel engine remains unchanged.
But firmer springs and beefed-up shock absorbers promise improved precision on the road.
Design changes include a new grille with a similar look to the new GR Sport LandCruiser, along with black body elements, red suspension springs and 17-inch wheels with all-terrain tyres.
On the inside, leather and faux suede sports seats join carbon-look trim with red accents, metal pedals and shift paddles for the six-speed automatic transmission.
GR Sport logos inside and out complete the package.
The car’s release is timed to coincide with the Dakar Rally event contested by Toyota crews in HiLux machinery.
The GR Sport is confirmed for a European debut in the middle of this year, but there’s no news yet as to whether it will be sold in Australia.
The brand has been linked to a high-performance ute rivalling Ford’s Ranger Raptor, but this is not that car.
Toyota Australia has offered TRD-badged HiLux models in the past, and still sells HiLux Rugged and Rogue models that aren’t available in Europe.
The HiLux GR Sport could make for a crowded ute range but would fit nicely with the latest LandCruiser GR Sport four-wheel-drive.
A local spokesman for the brand said it is aware of the new model.
“Toyota Australia is continually looking at opportunities to expand the Toyota GR range with more exciting models,” he said.
“However, at this stage, we have no announcements to make.”
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