With so much choice on offer, deciding which Toyota Hilux bakkie is right for you might seem overwhelming. But fear not! We’ll help you figure out which 1 suits you best…
At last count, the Toyota Hilux range spanned a whopping 37 derivatives in Mzansi. So, if you’re in the market for a new bakkie and are keen on a Hilux, how do you decide which one is right for you?
Well, to help you figure out which derivative will best suit your needs, we’ll examine this Prospecton-built stalwart, which has been SA’s best-selling vehicle overall for more than 50 consecutive years, in detail.
By the end of this exercise, you should have a solid understanding of which 8th-gen Toyota Hilux variants might be worth including on your shortlist, depending on your intended usage. Note, however, that we won’t delve into pricing here, since you’ll (obviously) know your budget far better than us…
Talking about budget, if you’re unsure what you’re able to afford, please take some time to explore our Car Affordability Calculator and you can also work out estimated monthly instalments using our handy Car Finance Calculator.
See also: New Toyota Hilux Specs & Prices in South Africa
1. Toyota Hilux Body Styles
In South Africa, the Toyota Hilux is available in 3 distinct body styles. As present, the Prospecton-based manufacturer offers as many as 15 single-cab derivatives, including a pair of chassis-cab variants. The single cab is best described as a workhorse (equipment levels tend to be sparse to keep the purchase price down); therefore, it’s generally intended for business rather than personal use.
The same can be said of the extended cab – which, like the single cab, technically qualifies for VAT reclamation when purchased by SARS-registered businesses.
However, it adds more in-cabin (and, crucially, out-of-sight) storage space and, in some cases, standard features. While the single cab has the larger load bay and loftier load capacity, the multi-role extended cab (there are 6 derivatives available locally, each badged as an “Xtra Cab”) isn’t far behind.
Finally, Toyota SA Motors offers 16 double-cab variants. Most examples of this body style are positioned as so-called “leisure bakkies”, featuring all manner of bells and whistles. They are designed for both work and play, with a heady mix of carrying capacity and cabin space. In short, for many buyers, a double cab is a family vehicle and a workhorse in one.
View the entire Toyota Hilux range here!
2. Driven Wheels: 4×2 or 4×4?
If you have no intention of tackling challenging off-road terrain in your Hilux, it would be prudent to opt for a 4×2 derivative. As many as 23 variants in the range are rear-wheel drive, bringing not only purchase-price benefits but fuel savings, too. Furthermore, they offer slightly higher payload and towing capacities than the equivalent 4×4 versions.
The remaining 14 derivatives ship with 4×4, making them well suited to tackling demanding sections of rough terrain, including slippery conditions and steep off-road inclines, thanks to added traction. They furthermore offer extra versatility in that the driver can switch between “H2”, “H4” and “L4” modes.
3. Toyota Hilux engine options
With the 4.0-litre V6 no longer part of the local Hilux line-up, the only petrol engines are the 2.0- (102 kW/183 Nm) and 2.7-litre (122 kW/245 Nm) 4-cylinder motors employed by the low-spec single- and double cabs. These are, of course, the out-and-out workhorse derivatives.
Next comes the 2.4-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel, which powers 18 variants in the range, offering 110 kW and up to 400 Nm. This motor is a fine choice for buyers who seek a good blend of performance and efficiency.
The 2.8-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel, meanwhile, generates 150 kW and 500 Nm in most applications, which makes it a strong option for drivers who require added oomph. It is furthermore available in the Raider and Legend double cabs with 48V mild-hybrid technology, ostensibly improving fuel economy.
Finally, the 2.8-litre GD-6 that powers the flagship GR-Sport boasts higher outputs of 165 kW/550 Nm.
4. What transmissions are available for the Hilux?
There are just 3 transmission options in the current Toyota Hilux portfolio. The petrol engines all feature a 5-speed manual gearbox, a configuration also shared with low-spec derivatives powered by the 2.4-litre turbodiesel detuned to 343 Nm.
All other 2.4- and 2.8-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engines employ either a 6-speed manual ‘box or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Pick your preference here, though a 2-pedal derivative would be far easier to live with if you typically spend loads of time in stop-start traffic.
5. What trim levels are offered on the Hilux?
The Toyota Hilux range features 5 main trim levels, starting with the basic “S” grade reserved for the workhorse derivatives. The “SR” specification adds a little extra kit but is likewise set aside for more affordable, utilitarian variants.
Meanwhile, the “Raider” grade represents a pleasing middle ground, bringing more standard equipment and more modern styling. For instance, Raider derivatives gain the latest grille treatment rather than the old face (with a black plastic bumper) employed by the S and SR versions.
Use our useful Car Compare Tool to compare different Hilux derivatives side-by-side!
Available exclusively in conjunction with the 2.8-litre 4-cylinder GD-6 engine, the high-spec “Legend” trim level is aimed largely at so-called “lifestyle” buyers, though it’s interestingly offered for both the extended- and double-cab body styles. Finally, the GR-Sport tops the range, boasting a widebody configuration, uprated suspension, all-terrain tyres and a more powerful engine tune.
Find a used Toyota Hilux on Cars.co.za!
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