HiLux model upgrades from March will include more dynamic front bumpers along with a honeycomb mesh grille and the introduction of V-Active Technology
HiLux SR5 level buyers will come off best when the March 2024 upgrades start landing with dark-finish LED headlamps, while WorkMate and SR single-cab and petrol variants will not be fitted with the latest styling.
As a result of the updates, HiLux models with 48-volt technology on select 4×4 double-cab automatic models will be priced from $54,1301 excluding on-road costs for the SR cab chassis variant.
Moving forward, the powertrain technology called V-Active Technology will be optional on SR 4×4 double-cab automatic variants, but comes as standard on SR5 and Rogue 4×4 double-cab automatic variants.
In a first for HiLux, all models fitted with V-Active Technology are also fitted with Toyota’s multi-terrain select off-road system (MTS) that offers six selectable modes to improve traction in a range of conditions.
In high range, MTS can be configured for dirt, sand, mud, deep snow and auto modes, and when switched to low range offers sand, mud, auto and rock modes to provide a wide mix of traction controls.
Toyota Australia Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley said the addition of V-Active Technology on select 4×4 double-cab models offered outstanding value while delivering improved performance and efficiency.
“The introduction of V-Active Technology for HiLux is yet another step as we continue to refine and improve the efficiency and performance of our range and we wanted to ensure it remained a great value proposition for our customers,” he said.
“With minimal price increases, we believe we have achieved that especially when you factor in the additional equipment and refreshed styling that will ensure HiLux will continue to appeal to a broad set of customers.”
HiLux SR 4×4 double cab models with V-Active Technology also gain dual-zone automatic climate control, auto up-down windows, and smart entry and start.
Compared with the standard SR 4×4 double cab 2.8-litre automatic, prices are increased by $1025 for the cab chassis and $1605 for the pick-up1.
The HiLux SR5 4×4 double cab automatic variant that is now standard with V-Active technology also gets a wireless charger2 and two rear USB-C charging ports. With the automatic model priced from $60,580 plus on-road costs for the cab chassis, an increase of $5901.
HiLux Rogue will also come standard with V-Active Technology and gains wireless charger2 and rear USB-C ports. The price will increase by $770 to a princely sum of $71,5301 plus on-road costs.
Technology upgrade advantages
The 48-volt technology comprises a motor generator, 48-volt battery and DC/DC converter with the aim to garnish a number of improvements in driveability, performance, fuel efficiency and noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) compared with the standard 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine.
Key to improving efficiency is the introduction of an engine start-stop system, with the system components helping to ensure engine re-starts are done quickly, quietly, and with minimal vibration.
Overall, the V-Active Technology provides an improvement of up to approximately 10% in fuel economy compared to variants equipped with the standard 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine.
Two stop-start settings are available, consisting of ‘Normal’ and ‘Long’ mode. Long mode keeps the engine switched off for longer than a typical internal combustion powertrain.
Re-starting the engine on inclines is also claimed to be a smoother process, with the system retaining brake pressure until enough driving force is generated to provide effortless acceleration.
V-Active Technology also provides improved performance, with energy stored in the battery used to provide additional powertrain output when accelerating and helping reduce the load on the engine in areas of the rev range with lesser efficiency.
During deceleration, energy is recovered by the motor generator and is fed back into the battery, combined with the engine braking to provide natural deceleration characteristics.
V-Active Technology also enables a lower engine idling speed that is reduced from 720rpm to just 600rpm and provides seamless and quiet restarting when using the stop-start system in traffic congestion.
To ensure the system remains compatible with the rugged off-road nature of the HiLux, the motor generator unit has been positioned high in the engine bay to allow for successful water crossings.
A two-arm belt tensioner and high-strength rib side fabric belt help ensure strong reliability with improved slip resistance in wet conditions.
Fancy front-end styling added
Together with the introduction of the V-Active Technology, all core HiLux grades except for WorkMate and SR single-cab and petrol variants gain the updated front-end visual upgrade including dynamic new front bumpers, and a honeycomb mesh grille.
While on SR5 grades there is added detail from dark-finish LED headlamps fitted. Further dark elements are added to the SR5 including gloss black exterior mirrors and door handles, a darkened rear bumper and a powder-coated black sports bar.
All pick-up variants are now fitted with a tailgate damper with lift assist, consisting of a gas strut and steel cable that replaces the existing steel bracket.
HiLux SR double-cab pick-ups with automatic transmissions also get the benefit of front and rear parking sensors that will no doubt help the driver when caught in tight spaces.
2024 Toyota HiLux 4×4 double-cab V-Active Technology pricing1
| Powertrain | Price without on-road costs | Change | |
| SR double-cab chassis | 48V 2.8L TD, 6AT | $54,130 | +$1,025 |
| SR double-cab pick-up | 48V 2.8L TD, 6AT | $56,210 | +$1,605 |
| SR5 double-cab chassis | 48V 2.8L TD, 6AT | $60,580 | +$590 |
| SR5 double-cab pick-up | 48V 2.8L TD, 6AT | $63,260 | +$770 |
| Rogue double-cab pick-up | 48V 2.8L TD, 6AT | $71,530 | +$770 |
