There are very few places in the world that can match the Australian outback for bone-rattling, suspension-stressing toughness. But the deserts of Saudi Arabia, where the iconic Dakar Rally is held each year, would give it a solid, sandy shake.
It's from these hot, rugged and demanding conditions that the ultimate iteration of the famous HiLux has emerged — the Toyota HiLux GR Sport.
The latest addition to the range is the new HiLux hero, and like the HiLux vehicles before it, the GR Sport combines the ute's reputation for capability and durability with more off-road performance. It features an array of upgrades to make it more capable, including a more powerful engine, enhanced suspension and a tougher new look.
Taking inspiration from the incredibly successful Dakar-winning Toyota HiLux — in fact, the HiLux claimed back-to-back victories in 2022 and 2023 — a team of Toyota engineers and designers helped to shape the GR Sport to cope with, and even thrive in, Australia's unique conditions.
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To achieve that goal, Toyota’s global team sought input from the company’s Australian design and engineering staff. That local knowledge ensured the HiLux GR Sport would be capable of surviving the most gruelling Australian outback conditions, and therefore anything else Australia could throw at it.
Starting under the bonnet, the engineers increased the performance of the HiLux's dependable 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, elevating it to 165kW power and 550Nm of torque. Paired with the engine upgrades, the six-speed automatic transmission was recalibrated to optimise that extra power.
Toyota also added new, racing-style paddle-shifters which allow you to work the six-speed gearbox while you're on the move. It's the first time a HiLux has been fitted with shift paddles behind the steering wheel, and they make the driver feel more engaged with the driving experience than ever before, increasing that unbreakable connection between man and machine that makes the HiLux so special.
Underneath, the suspension has been overhauled to ensure the HiLux GR Sport is capable of Dakar-style high-speed off-road performance. The changes include a wider track than standard, pumping the wheels out by 135mm at the front and 155mm at the rear, matching the HiLux Rogue model. The ride height has also been increased by 20mm compared to the SR5, SR and WorkMate variants.
As for the suspension itself, Toyota has installed KYB monotube shock absorbers that have been specifically designed for the HiLux GR Sport. There are also stiffer coils, and the rear stabiliser bar has been removed to improve suspension travel.
All these powertrain and suspension upgrades wouldn't be worthwhile without a good tyre and wheel package to help transmit it all to the road. So the HiLux GR Sport is fitted with gloss black 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 265/65 Bridgestone Dueler all-terrain tyres which further help its performance off-road.
To protect all this vital hardware, Toyota's team of Australian experts also fitted the HiLux GR Sport with a Dakar-inspired skid plate, heavy-duty rock rails and a unique front bumper, which also improves the approach angle.
Visually, the GR Sport distinguishes itself from the rest of the HiLux range with a unique blacked-out front grille, complete with 'TOYOTA' lettering, as well as an aerodynamically enhanced wide-track front bumper with silver lower moulding. There are also dark-grey fender guards to help with the extra wheel track.
Other visual differences for the GR Sport include black badging, door handles and exterior mirrors, in keeping with the Gazoo Racing look.
Inside the cabin, the seats are finished in a suitably sporty combination of leather accents and perforated suede trim. These are highlighted by silver accents and grey stitching, while the bright red seatbelts are another GR Sport touch.
The steering wheel is wrapped in leather-accented trim and gets a red centre mark at the ’12 o’clock’ position as well as a ‘GR’ logo — and, of course, the paddle-shifters. There are also aluminium pedals and a new ‘Technical Mesh’ trim for the doors and dashboard elements.
While these changes all managed to make the GR Sport handle even better off-road, none of it has compromised the 3500kg braked towing capability of the HiLux — meaning it's got all the benefits and no downsides.
Toyota Australia Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley was understandably proud of the new HiLux GR Sport and the enhancements made by the local engineering and design workforce.
"This is far more than a HiLux that looks the part," Mr Hanley said.
"The extensive suspension, powertrain and underbody modifications give our new HiLux GR Sport the sort of performance credentials, that, along with its renowned towing and off-road capability, will appeal to recreational enthusiasts.
"The first-ever HiLux GR Sport's enhanced capability and performance is a fantastic example of how our skilled engineers and designers can improve our excellent vehicles even further and we are extremely proud to have been involved in its development."
So whether you want to take on the rugged off-terrain of the Australian outback, carve up sand dunes in the desert, tow your caravan or boat or just drive one of the sportiest and most stylish members of the HiLux family, the new HiLux GR Sport is for you.
Engineered and tested by Australians, for Australians.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE TOYOTA HILUX GR SPORT
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