Dakar-inspired Toyota Hilux GR Sport 04 | 01 | 2022
WHILE TOYOTA BATTLES for victory in the Dakar Rally, the Japanese carmaker has revealed its new flagship trim level of the ever-popular Hilux pick-up truck. Badged Hilux GR Sport, the newcomer has been inspired by Totota’s previous success in the Dakar. Prices start at £37,551 (excl VAT). (Related: Toyota Hilux gains hardcore AT35)
Externally the GR Sport gets something of a visual overhaul, while inside the cabin there are a number of GR-themed upgrades. (Related: New 2020 Toyota Hilux)
Externally, in place of the current brand emblem, the GR Sport features the TOYOTA name proudly emblazoned across the the front grille; the styling tweak is a nod to the successful fourth generation Hilux of the early Eighties. (Related: Toyota Aygo X starts at £14,795)
Sitting on 17in alloys, which have a contrast black and machined finish and are fitted with all-terrain tyres, the GR Sport gets colour-matched wing mirrors, side steps, tailgate handle, over-fenders, and a sports bar.
In the cabin there are new sports front seats in a combination of black leather and synthetic suede with red perforations and contrast stitching. The GR Sport branding is featured on the seatbacks, carpet mats, starter button and the information display animation graphic. (Related: Toyota's first all-electric SUV, the bZ4x)
The driver can use paddle controls for manual shift selection and aluminium sports pedals are fitted. The look is further enhanced with carbon fibre-style trim inserts, a red deco line across the width of the instrument panel and blue door panel illumination. (Related: Toyota Aygo X gets new rugged look)
Equipment specifications are based on the Hilux Invincible and include a premium JBL sound system, navigation system, heated front and rear seats, and a Panoramic View Monitor which provides an all-round view of the vehicle’s location for precise manoeuvring over rough terrain and in tight spaces.
LED headlights and combination lamps, smart entry and push-button start, dual-zone air conditioning, Downhill Assist Control and an automatic limited-slip differential are also included. (Related: Review — Toyota Yaris 2021)
There’s also a retuned suspension system which the company promises will improve handling over the standard truck.
Stiffer front springs help sharpen steering angle response, while new monotube shock absorbers give faster damping and improved heat dissipation. According to Toyota, the ride comfort in the GR Sport has also been improved over the standard Hilux.
Power comes from the more powerful 2.8-litre engine, introduced to the range in 2020. This delivers 201hp/150 kW and 500Nm of torque and is matched to a six-speed automatic transmission. (Related: Toyota launches Yaris Cross Dynamic)
Exclusively a Double Cab version, the GR Sport maintains Hilux’s impressive load-carrying capabilities that are among the best in its class: it can take a payloads of one tonne and tow braked trailers up to 3.5 tonnes.
"The Toyota Hilux has a legendary reputation for toughness and reliability," Toyota Gazoo Racing driver, three-time Dakar winner and multiple World Cross-Country Rally Champion, Nasser Al-Attiyah said. "This new model, which was inspired by our iconic Dakar race cars, brings new levels of driving experience both on-road and when going off-road.
"It truly encapsulates the spirit of our race cars, bringing a part of Dakar to buyers all over the world.”
Set to arrive in Toyota showrooms from this summer 2022, the commercial vehicle on-the-road price (excl VAT) is £37,551; the standard on-the-road price is £44,995. Order books will open later this month.
Related: New entry-level Toyota GR Supra 2.0
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Jim McGill