Overview
As the ultimate go-anywhere, do-anything vehicle, the Toyota Hilux has become something of a legend. After all, TV producers have taken it as far as the Antarctic and parked it on buildings they later blew up to try and destroy it. It’s capable and credible – the ultimate utility vehicle.
What you need to know about the Toyota Hilux
While a tough reputation might give the impression the Hilux is too extreme for general use, that couldn’t be further from the truth. It can keep up with modern demands and, on the motorway, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were cruising in a family car.
The interior is still best described as functional, but it’s more comfortable than ever with luxuries all drivers have come to appreciate, including cruise control, air con and a modern multimedia system. In newer models, the amount of equipment is impressive, especially for a car better known for its rugged reliability.
Then again, there are quite a lot of stats that impress. Combined fuel consumption averages around 40mpg, you can hit 62mph in 13 seconds and its towing capacity has increased to a mighty 3.5 tonnes in the latest generations.
What to watch out for
Handling-wise, you might feel let down. But you shouldn’t really be buying a pick-up expecting to tear around bends, and it does tighten up if you employ four-wheel-drive. There’s also only one engine, but we found it pretty efficient and Toyota still manage to raise the game further in being a credible family car, as well as a capable pickup.
Other options
- Nissan Navara
- Mitsubishi L200
- Ford Ranger
Expert opinion With such an iconic status, having been around since 1968, the powerful drive of the Hilux pick-up still gives plenty of grunt, proving a tough competitor for modern additions to the market. Both well-built and dependable, it’s most commonly available as a pick-up, but the Hilux has been available in a host of body styles over the years, all of which show power can be truly versatile.
Browse the range of Toyota Hiluxs available from Exchange & Mart today.