Toyota SA will introduce the facelifted Hilux GR Sport soon. Not only does it draw inspiration from the firm’s Gazoo Racing division – the new-look GR Sport derivative will be the most powerful series-produced Hilux that the Prospecton-based firm has sold in our market.
Toyota is always keen to point out its Dakar successes with the Hilux and this tough offroad race serves as the inspiration for the all-new Toyota Hilux GR Sport.
The popular bakkie has never been slack in the offroad department, but the Toyota Hilux GR Sport is more capable. There’s an upgraded suspension system featuring monotube shock absorbers, new front springs, automatic limited-slip differential, and active traction control. There are also upgrades to the vibration and noise countermeasures.
Toyota claims these upgrades “deliver significant improvements in handling characteristics, including steering effort and steering angle response, straight-line performance, a flat ride and reassuring roll and rear grip feel.”
As far as visual changes go, the Toyota Hilux GR Sport features a black front grille with G-pattern mesh and a classic-looking Toyota emblem. There are new larger front fog light surrounds, 17-inch alloy wheels which are black and machined and wrapped in all-terrain tyres. There is black detailing on the side-mirror casings, side steps, tailgate handle and over-fenders. The shocks and springs are finished in red and there are subtle GR Sport badges. It’s more subtle than the Thai-built wild Revo Hilux shown in 2021.
Inside, the cabin gains sports seats finished in black leather and synthetic suede with red perforations and contrast stitching. There’s GR Sport branding on the seats, carpets, starter button and dashboard graphics. There are also aluminium pedals, carbon fibre-style trim and a red insert across the dashboard.
Now if you’re expecting an engine upgrade, remember this is a GR Sport model, not a pure GR so the focus here is on a sportier drive and look. The current 2.8 engine offers plenty of go in any case with 150 kW and 500 Nm, paired to a 6-speed automatic gearbox.
Interestingly, the SA-spec Toyota Hilux GR Sport will break this hierarchy by offering a touch more power and torque. With outputs of 165 kW and 550 Nm, this GR Sport will be the most powerful Hilux offered locally. As it stands, the flagship model puts out 150 kW and 500 Nm.
When will the Toyota Hilux GR Sport go on sale?
Toyota Europe confirmed the new Hilux GR Sport will be hitting European markets in the middle of 2022. Toyota South Africa said it would be launching the Hilux GR Sport before the middle of 2022 and we’ll have more info closer to its launch.
