Toyota Australia has revealed full details of its new flagship ute, the Hilux GR Sport, which is set to rival the likes of Ford Ranger Wildtrak X.
Priced from $73,990 before on-road costs, the high-tier Toyota ute undercuts the Ranger Wildtrak X by $2000, making the Toyota dual-cab more affordable that its key competitor while offering more output from its diesel heartbeat.
Toyota says it has extensively revised and redeveloped the Hilux with modifications to suspension, powertrain and underbody protection for its Dakar-inspired variant.
The new Toyota Hilux GR Sport will go head to head with the Wildtrak X
Arguably, this is likely to be the most potent Hilux we will see before an all-new generation of Hilux arrives in the coming years.
Chasing Cars understands Toyota has already received 1600 pre-orders for the ute locally and hopes to bring in a significant 3500 units over the next 12 months.
What do you get with the Hilux GR Sport?
Power is up, and beefier suspension is standard
First up is a subtle power increase for the existing 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine that now produces 165kW/550Nm (up from 150kW/500Nm in standard guise and Wildtrak X’s current outputs). This engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that has also been recalibrated to accommodate the additional power.
Although the GR Sport does gain the same wider track as its Rogue sibling, Toyota Australia has fitted unique KYB monotube shock absorbers into the mix, and has also removed the rear stabiliser bar for greater articulation off-road.
The GR Sport can still tow up to 3500kg braked
Like its Wildtrak X rival, the Hilux GR Sport still has a 3500kg of braked towing capacity.
Also with the GR Sport, owners will receive a front skid plate, steel rock rails and red recovery points as standard.
Inside, the Toyota Hilux GR Sport will feature a blend of leather and perforated suede trim with red seat belts.
The GR Sport’s interior is filled with leather and suede linings
The steering wheel is wrapped in leather and features both the GR logo and paddle shifters for greater control.
Aluminium pedals, ‘technical mesh’ trim and a nine-speaker JBL sound system will be standard equipment on the model.
Several colours will be available for the new flagship ute, including Glacier White, Frosted White, Silver Sky, Eclipse Black and Feverish Red. A two-tone black roof will be available for white and red colours from launch.
Underbody protection is standard for the Hilux GR Sport
Toyota Hilux 2023: prices in Australia
All prices listed are before on-road costs.
- Rogue: $70,760
- GR Sport: $73,990