Toyota has built-in rough road performance for the core model HiLux GR Sport with a tough Dakar inspired design for a more powerful off-road experience
Toyota has developed a HiLux GR Sports model with an emphasis on off-road performance equipped with more power, wider tracks, tuned suspension and bigger disc brakes.
Benefiting from GAZOO Racing’s experience in motorsport, the new halo variant of the HiLux range builds on the renowned durability and rough-road performance.
With at its core a tough Dakar-inspired design, intuitive handling and powerful driving performance.
Engineers from Toyota Australia have been instrumental in the development program, combining their expertise and experience with colleagues in Latin America, Thailand and Japan.
This model is presented as a hardcore off-roader and the most powerful diesel HiLux ever offered by Toyota in Australia. Power and torque from the 2.8-litre engine have been boosted by 10% to 165kW and 550Nm, through the benefit of revised turbo-supercharging and fuel-injection control1.
Combined with sportier tuning for the automatic transmission and an expanded lock-up area, the HiLux GR Sport provides added confidence for accelerating and overtaking in all conditions, enhanced by optimal control through paddle shifters on the steering wheel.
The GR Sport platform adopts wider tracks, extended 140mm up front and 155mm at the rear. This comes with a redesigned wishbones and a reinforced rear axle to cater for the most demanding driving conditions.
Dedicated monotube shock absorbers with higher damping force and heat-dissipation capacity, stiffer coil springs and an optimal front-rear suspension balance promise more outstanding handling.
While increasing stability through reduced roll angle provides a more precise steering response. The GR Sport platform set-up also enables the driver to enjoy the adrenaline of a sporty vehicle without compromising ride comfort for everyday use.
Available exclusively in the double-cab body style, the HiLux GR Sport transmits performance, agility and toughness at first glance.
The wider stance is the result of the Dakar-inspired design, to provide a strong and stable platform that inspires a more muscular image with prominent satin-black over-fenders that seamlessly integrate into the bumper.
Front styling directly references the vehicle’s rally motorsport roots, enhancing the vehicle’s “go-anywhere” capabilities with an increased approach angle and higher ground clearance.
A strong upright grille, designed for maximum cooling area, draws attention to the signature GR grille mesh and TOYOTA lettering. Exterior body parts have been sculpted in the wind tunnel for aerodynamic efficiency.
The GR Sport rides on 432mm (17-inch) alloy wheels with all-terrain tyres while its off-road credentials are further reinforced by the addition of a skid plate, rock rails and red rear recovery points.
Inside, the monochromatic black theme is set off with bright sports pedals and red seatbelts. GR branding is featured inside and out, including on the steering wheel, headrests, red brake callipers, exterior badges, and even embossed into the tub-liner.
Toyota Australia Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley said the GR Sport halo model will reinforce the unbreakable bond Australians have with HiLux.
“HiLux GR Sport draws on the spirit of Toyota’s Dakar success as a hardcore 4WD that will appeal to customers seeking the quintessential off-road version of Australia’s best-selling vehicle,” Sean Hanley concluded.
“It has been designed to turn heads with aggressive in-your-face styling that’s reinforced by a healthy performance boost, enhanced high-speed handling and even better grip on dirt roads.
“Thanks to the extensive involvement of our local designers and engineers, HiLux GR Sport is a fun-to-drive vehicle that will bring new capabilities and excitement to the adventure lifestyles of Australian customers,” Sean Hanley added
The arrival of launch models of the HiLux GR Sport is expected during the second half of 2023.
HILUX GR SPORT – PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS1
| Length (mm) | 5320 | |
| Width (mm) | 2020 | |
| Height (mm) | 1880 | |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 3085 | |
| Tracks | Front (mm) | 1675 |
| Rear (mm) | 1705 | |
| Approach Angle (degrees) | 30 | |
| Departure Angle (degrees) | 26 | |
| Engine Model Code | 1GD-FTV (Hi) | |
| No. of Cyls & Arrangement | 4 cylinders, in-line | |
| Valve Mechanism | DOHC 16-Valve | |
| Bore x Stroke (mm) | 92 x 103.6 | |
| Displacement (cm3) | 2755 | |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | |
| Max. Output | (kW) | 165 |
| (rpm) | 3000 | |
| Max. Torque | (Nm) | 550 |
| (rpm) | 2800 | |
| Brakes | Front | Ventilated discs with 4-cylinder fixed calliper |
| Rear | Ventilated discs with 1-cylinder floating calliper |
1 Vehicle specifications and features are based on a pre-production model, are subject to final confirmation by Toyota Australia and may differ from those shown.
