Snapshot
- Up 15kW, 50Nm, wider tracks, modified suspension
- Rival for Navara Warrior, Ranger Raptor
- Most powerful HiLux sold in Aus
- H2 2023 Australian release confirmed
Toyota has detailed a new 2023 HiLux GR Sport halo model, and it’s a very different beast from the examples that've been trading under the same name in South Africa, Thailand and Japan.
The new model becomes the third GR Sport HiLux permutation to emerge, and will take the reins as our HiLux flagship from the Australian-developed Rugged X at its Australian release in the second half of 2023.
With its 15kW power and 50Nm torque bumps, rally-inspired wide body design, 155 millimetre wider rear track and retuned suspension, it’s the most serious production HiLux yet.
UPDATE, February 2023: New Tacoma-inspired HiLux imagined in new renderings
The next HiLux is rumoured to share its underpinnings with American pick-ups – and if it looks like this, it'll be off to a good start. Full story and images at the link below.
Story continues...
A rival for the Nissan Navara Pro-4X Warrior and Ford Ranger Raptor, we expect the HiLux GR Sport's price to start from around $75-80K.
"[HiLux GR Sport] has been designed to turn heads with aggressive in-your-face styling that's reinforced by a healthy performance boost, enhanced high-speed handling and even better grip on dirt roads," vice president sales, marketing and franchise operations, Sean Hanley told Wheels.
"Thanks to the extensive involvement of our local designers and engineers, HiLux GR Sport is a fun-to-drive vehicle that will bring new capabilities and excitement to the adventure lifestyles of Australian customers."
Jump ahead:
- Hilux GR Sport powertrain
- HiLux GR Sport suspension
- HiLux GR Sport design
- Pricing and availability
- GR HiLux specifications
HiLux GR Sport gets more power
The latest instalment in the GR brand, the HiLux GR Sport is a new take on the naming convention.
Thankfully, the HiLux GR Sport goes much further than the light visual changes made to Yaris Cross and C-HR GR Sport trims, but without quite such heavy re-engineering as full GR versions of Yaris and Corolla.
Under the bonnet is the familiar 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder making 165kW of power at 3000rpm and 550Nm of torque at 2800rpm – increases of 15kW and 50Nm over a normal ’Lux.
The six-speed automatic transmission has been re-tuned with a stronger torque converter lock-up, sportier calibration, and the addition of paddle shifters. The HiLux retains its selectable 4WD system with low-range transfer case and locking rear differential.
Wider tracks and more capability
To enhance its off-road capability Toyota has widened the GR Sport’s front track by 140mm and rear track 155mm compared to a regular HiLux.
This means redesigned suspension wishbones and heavier duty rear axle are needed.There are also satin black overfenders fitted to the HiLux GR Sport to cover the new 17-inch alloy wheels shod in 265/65 R17 Bridgestone Dueler all-terrain tyres.
Keeping the rubber in contact with terrain are new monotube dampers with more rebound and compression control as well as better heat management, along with stiffer front coil springs. These changes should add support off-road while also sharpening handling up on the black stuff.
Measuring 1880mm tall, the HiLux GR Sport sits only 10mm taller than a Rogue, though Toyota did not claim an increased ride height from springs.
The GR HiLux boasts a 30-degree approach angle and 26-degree departure angle thanks to re-profiled front and rear bumpers. There is also a skid plate beneath the engine, rock sliders and red recovery points for enhanced off-road protection.
GR HiLux – a unique design
With plenty of input from Australia – where the HiLux is our best-selling vehicle – the GR HiLux’s tougher looks centre around its broader stance; Dakar-inspired, says the brand, its set off with plenty of black detailing around the car.
Toyota says the front bumper’s design is motorsport inspired and said to improve the HiLux’s approach angle. There’s a black mesh grille with bold ‘Toyota’ script set in, and red brake calipers, naturally. Toyota visited a wind-tunnel to evaluate any visual changes before signing off.
Inside is a familiar 8.0-inch touchscreen, and the GR HiLux is fitted out similarly to an SR5 but with some key differences.
Notably, the red ‘dead-ahead’ marker on the leather-appointed steering wheel, suedecloth-centred seats, red seat belts, GR branding on the headrests and in the tub liner.
GR HiLux pricing and availability
Toyota has said that the GR HiLux is likely to hit Australian showrooms in the second half of the year (following July 1), but exact dates are yet to be confirmed.
Likewise, the GR HiLux’s pricing is yet unknown. With the current Rugged X priced at $70,750 before on-road costs, expect the GR Sport to command more cash given its extra performance panache.
We expect a price around $75-80K before on-road costs, putting the GR Sport a little above Nissan’s Navara Pro-4X Warrior ($70,015), but below Ford’s Ranger Raptor ($85,490).
GR HiLux specifications
Length (mm) | 5320 | ||
---|---|---|---|
Width (mm) | 2020 | ||
Height (mm) | 1880 | ||
Wheelbase (mm) | 3085 | ||
Tracks | Front (mm) | 1675 | |
Rear (mm) | 1705 | ||
Approach Angle (degrees) | 30 | ||
Departure Angle (degrees) | 26 | ||
Engine Model Code | 1GD-FTV (Hi) | ||
No. of Cyls & Arrangement | 4 cylinders, in-line | ||
Valve Mechanism | DOHC 16-Valve | ||
Bore x Stroke (mm) | 92 x 103.6 | ||
Displacement (cm3) | 2755 | ||
Fuel Type | Diesel | ||
Max. Output | (kW) | 165 | |
(rpm) | 3000 | ||
Max. Torque | (Nm) | 550 | |
(rpm) | 2800 | ||
Brakes | Front | Ventilated discs with 4-cylinder fixed calliper | |
Rear | Ventilated discs with 1-cylinder floating calliper |
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