Toyota Adds Sporty Touch to Hilux

Unlike the new generation of pick-ups which, like the new generation of 4WDs, are oriented towards lifestyle activities rather than work, the Hilux has been primarily a workhorse and has performed this role exceptionally well. It is highly respected by businessmen who need a tough and hardy machine to haul cargo and people deep into the jungle or around construction sites.

Nevertheless, UMW Toyota Motor has not been ignoring pontential of the recreational vehicle segment and has been watching its development closely. This week, it has brought out a new version, the Toyota Hilux Double Cab SR, which is intended to win over people who want a pick-up for recreational purposes, rather than for business.

“Market feedback has indicated that many Malaysian buyers wish to have more style and comfort in the Hilux. This is our response, in line with our company's policy of listening to customers and satisfying their needs," said Harry Loo, General Manager of the Marketing Division at UMW Toyota Motor.

While there are a number of exterior improvements, including new multi-reflector headlamps, over fenders and a sporty two-tone colour scheme, the focus of attention in developing the new Hilux SR has been the interior to provide more comfort and convenience.

In this respect, convenience features found in the Toyota passenger car models, such as power windows, power door mirrors, cupholders, centre console box and full fabric seats, are provided as standard. An integrated air-conditioning system is also installed, this amenity being a must in our hot humid conditions.

The new Hilux SR also comes with an optional chrome roll-over bar behind the cab, a functional feature which also adds sporty looks. Also available as an option for this version is a bedliner to protect the cargo bed. A reverse sensor is fitted for easier reversing of the long vehicle.

The heart of the Hilux SR is the proven Toyota 3L 4-cylinder SOHC 2799 cc diesel engine. It meets Euro-1 emission control regulations to qualify as a Green Engine meaning it qualifies for a reduction in roadtax by 50%. That’s pretty helpful as diesel engine roadtax is much higher than for petrol engines.

Power delivery is via a 5-speed manual transmission and transfer case with High and Low ranges. The well-proven 4x4 drivetrain, combined with high ground clearance, enables the vehicle to have a go-anywhere capability. It can be operated in rear wheel drive mode (4x2) with 4x4 being engaged only in difficult and muddy conditions. But even in 4X2 mode, the vehicle has the benefit of a limited-slip differential (LSD) which ensures that power is distributed efficiently in slippery conditions. This mechanism will help prevent it from getting bogged down if one rear wheel is stuck in mud.

Another feature which makes highway driving smoother and quieter, as well as prolongs component life, is the free-wheel hub on each front wheel. When unlocked for 4x2 mode, the front wheels spin freely so friction is less and some fuel savings can be enjoyed. For 4X4 mode, they are locked so that driving torque gets to the front wheels as well.

With any kind of vehicle it produces, safety is a very important aspect and must satisfy Toyota’s tough in-house standard - the Global Outstanding Assessment (GOA). To pass GOA, a vehicle has to meet or in some cases, exceed prevailing safety standards.

For example, in offset frontal collision tests, the accepted European standard at present is 56 km/h. But Toyota designs its vehicles' structures to handle a collision speed of 60 km/h. This may be just 4 km/h or 7% faster but the impact produces approximately 15% more energy.

Other tough tests that must be passed include roll-overs and side impacts at up to 50 km/h. The offset frontal collision also gets a lot of attention under GOA because a large percentage of frontal collisions are of this nature. The Hilux SR passes GOA, which is quite impressive considering that it is a pick-up.

Prices for the new Hilux SR, which is available only with the double cab, start at around RM80,000 (including insurance and accessories package), depending on registration type.

Other versions suitable for business applications are also available in single and double cab bodies. All versions with the new looks now come with a 3-year warranty, or 100,000 kms traveled (whichever comes first), a demonstration of the confidence in locally-assembled quality.