Launched in 1968, the legendary Hilux has been a dominant presence in the pick-up market for nearly 50 years, recording global sales of more than 16 million units. The new Hilux, whose name represents the combination of the words “High” and “Luxury”, builds on its legendary reputation. The Hilux is now available to view and test drive at Swinford Motors or Pat Kelly Autopoint Ballina and Castlebar. Prices start at €29,250 excluding delivery and related charges.
Since it was launched in Ireland, more than 5,000 Hilux have been sold with many of them still on Irish roads today. The current generation was launched in 2005 and enjoyed a refresh in 2011. Since 2011 the Hilux has enjoyed a number one best-selling performance in its segment every year. That number one performance continues in 2016, with an exceptional 27 per cent segment share. The new Hilux arrives in Irish showrooms in time for 162 registrations.
The new Hilux driving performance is much improved courtesy of an all-new 2.4 D-4D engine. Despite its smaller size, compared to outgoing 3.0L, the new torque figure is 16.5 per cent higher at 400Nm and this higher torque figure is available at a lower engine speed than before giving greater flexibility. Downsizing, with greater driveability and greater efficiency has been achieved, with new Hilux combined fuel consumption improving from 7.7L to 7.0L.
An all-new six speed gearbox helps deliver this figure with a new 23 per cent taller ratio in top gear. 148bhp is generated at 3,400rpm. The six speed Automatic Transmission is also new. New Hilux features Eco and Power modes. Eco mode reduces fuel consumption by modifying accelerator pedal response as well as heating/cooling performance. It is perfect for urban driving and short distances. Power Mode provides a stronger acceleration response, ensuring more agile driving on slopes and winding roads.
The improved driving performance is complemented by an enhanced cabin area. The seat hip point is 10mm higher than before for better visibility and now comes with telescopic steering adjustment to ensure the optimum driving position and maximum comfort. The introduction of a full 220v plug type charge point gives the benefit of being able to charge a laptop on the go.
The new Hilux provides a best in class performance in terms of noise, vibration and harshness. There is better dash silencing, improved engine noise, better engine compartment sound insulation, thicker carpet for the cabin, wider weather-strips for the door openings as well as foam insulation in the roof area.
The new comfortable and quiet cabin also comes with a much more SUV like level of sensory quality, fit and finish. The Toyota Touch multimedia platform comes with a larger 7” screen and a 4.2” Colour TFT information screen within the dash display.
In terms of off road ability, there are a host of improvements. A benefit of the new six speed gearbox is a lower first gear which provides more power from start off and also reduces the risk of stalling at low speeds.
Off road performance is also enhanced due to an increase in ride height and improved axle articulation which is 20 per cent better than before. The new Hilux also has a 20 per cent improvement in structural rigidity, making it tougher than ever.
Many features are designed on new Hilux specifically with improved off road performance in mind such as re-positioned electrical components, curved cross member edges and improved under-body protection. In conjunction with a new engine under cover and improved approach, ramp and departure angles, Hilux now has best in class off-road damage resistance.
A rear diff lock is standard on new Hilux, a critical off road feature that is lacking from several Hilux competitor vehicles. AWD is now selectable via a dash located switch rather than a second gear lever. This makes the system much more user friendly whilst also making for a more passenger like cabin area.
The biggest single improvement in new Hilux toughness is the new Active Traction Control system. This system senses slip and brakes the slipping wheel to encourage grip, while also transferring torque to non-slipping wheels, thus keeping the vehicle moving in really tough conditions.
Towing capacity is increased to a very competitive 3.2 tons on Double Cab models and 3.5 tons on single cab. The Hilux can now tow 400Kg more than before. The Double cab has the widest and longest deck in the segment.
Toyota Safety Sense is available on the new Hilux and includes a pre collision system with pedestrian recognition, lane departure alert and road sign assist. This is in addition to other safety features such as hill assist control, downhill assist control, trailer stability control and active traction control, ensuring that new Hilux offers best in class safety.
