The Toyota Hilux GR Sport is a new, hard-core, top of the range, pick-up truck inspired by the manufacturer’s challenger for the 2022 Dakar Rally. Extras compared to standard production models include the optimised styling, interior, and performance that ensure it stands out. This pick-up is not for the shy and retiring.
Styling
The Toyota Hilux GR Sport Double Cab has distinctive exterior styling to distinguish it from other variants. Note the black colour theme, for starters. Prominent features include a black grille that includes the G-pattern mesh, horizontal bar, and ‘Toyota’ written in large letters rather than the company’s emblem.
The black theme continues via the two-tone alloy wheels, door mirror caps, side steps, over-fenders, and the handle on the tailgate. The GR Sport badges and larger fog light surrounds further distinguish this truck from the rest of its range. And naturally, it has genuine all-terrain tyres. Nothing less will do.
Interior
The Toyota Hilux GR Sport has a striking interior. Highlights include the black leather and synthetic suede sports seats that include vibrant, contrasting, red inserts and stitches. Carbon fibre-style trim further adds to the sense of occasion and complements the door panel illumination. There is also GR Sport branding on the seats, mats, start button, and information display.
Equipment
Standard equipment includes a panoramic monitor that provides an all-round view via a camera on each side of the truck. It is particularly useful while manoeuvring close to off-road hazards that are otherwise tricky to see. Further features include satellite navigation, dual-zone air conditioning, push button start, downhill assist, and an automatic limited slip differential.
Performance
The Hilux GR Sport has a 2.8 litre, 201bhp, 500Nm, diesel engine teamed to six-speed auto transmission. The gears can be selected manually, too. The towing capacity is 3.5 tonnes and the payload is one tonne. Compared to lesser models, this top of the range truck also has revised shock absorbers and front suspension springs. Toyota revealed they optimise the steering, ride, and body control.
Race winner comments
Toyota Dakar Rally winner, Nassar Al-Attiyah, summarised the Hilux GR Sport. ‘This new model, which is inspired by our Dakar race cars, takes the driving experience to another level both on and off-road. It encapsulates the spirit of our race cars and brings a part of Dakar to customers all over the world’, Mr Al-Attiyah said.
Price and availability
The Toyota Hilux GR Sport costs £44,995 on the road if bought privately. The business price is £37,551 + VAT. It can be ordered from January 2022 and deliveries are likely to start in the summer.
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