New GR Sport II to take Toyota Hilux to new heights

The Toyota Hilux will reach new heights of performance, ride comfort and imposing design with the introduction of the Hilux GR Sport II model. Building on its heritage as a multiple winner of the Dakar Rally, this new pinnacle of the pickup range will carry forward the unrivalled reputation for durability and reliability Hilux has enjoyed since the first generation model arrived in 1968.

The double cab Hilux GR Sport II will have an even more assertive look about it. The vehicle’s track has been increased by 140mm at the front and 155mm at the rear compared to the standard Hilux. This creates a confidence-inspiring ride whatever the weather or road conditions, and is helped by a reduced roll angle and more precise steering response. There is less noise and vibration and suspension and brakes have also been revised.

The engine remains the proven, powerful 2.8-litre unit that joined the range in 2020. This delivers 201bhp/105kW with 500Nm, driving through a six-speed automatic transmission.

Exterior design

The styling changes give Hilux and even more imposing and dynamic appearance, accentuated by red coil springs and coloured dampers – black at the front and red at the rear, plus black overfenders.

The strong visuals gain added emphasis from new 17” black alloy wheels which strike a contrast with the red brake callipers, and contribute to the vehicle’s performance too, with a lightweight design that’s aerodynamically efficient.

The GR Sport II further stands out with its black G-mesh front grille with the TOYOTA name presented in classic style. The black detailing theme continues with the side steps, mirrors, door handles, sport bar and rear bumper. A silver front under-run and distinctive GR Sport badging complete the look.

Interior design

The cabin complements the strong design with a stylish black monochrome theme with bold red accents. Red seatbelts, paddle shifts and aluminium pedals reference the GR Sport’s motorsport influence.

The sports seats are upholstered in a combination of black synthetic suede and leather with silver stitching and perforations. Their design and finish provide comfort and support and good body-gripping performance when experiencing high lateral forces in tougher driving conditions. The GR logo is featured in the information display and instrumentation and there are new-look door trims.

Toyota Smart Connect+ multimedia

The Hilux GR Sport is fitted with the Toyota Smart Connect+ multimedia system, accessed via an eight-inch touchscreen display.

Users can also connect their smartphone or tablet to the system – wired or wirelessly if using Apple CarPlay or with a wired link for Android Auto.

The multimedia package includes access to cloud-based journey navigation, which uses constantly updated real-time traffic event information for accurate and efficient route planning. There is also an embedded navigation system that can be used when no data connection to the cloud is available.

There is further convenience with future software tweaks or upgrades delivered seamlessly over the air, via the car’s data communications module (DCM). This means there is no need for the car to be taken to a workshop for a system update. Likewise, the system can be used to update software in the vehicle’s Toyota Safety Sense systems.

Technical enhancements

The world-famous “go-anywhere” qualities of Hilux are strengthened with an increase in the approach angle from 29 to 30 degrees and higher ground clearance, achieved by raising the ride height by 20mm and widening the front and rear tracks, by 140mm and 150mm respectively.

Improved aerodynamic performance is achieved with a new front “air curtain” structure that includes a new bumper and fog lamp bezel designs that optimise drag efficiency and reduce turbulence in the wheel arches, plus an aero-styled sport bar and deck cover.

Measures to gain a smoother and more stable ride over any terrain include new monotube dampers in place of the previous twin-tube units. These provide better performance and faster response in tough conditions.

The new, lighter 17” wheels are fitted with all-terrain tyres; superior braking performance is secured with larger front discs and new rear discs in place of the previous drums.

Sales of the new Hilux GR Sport II will commence in the first half of 2024, with deliveries to customers later in the year.