Toyota Kirloskar Motor has launched the iconic Hilux pickup in the Indian market. The car is popular throughout the world as a lifestyle utility vehicle that is best suited for off-roading adventure drives on tough terrains, and everyday city use. The name Hiluxis derived from ‘high’, and ‘luxury’ and the car has been known for extreme ‘toughness’ and ‘ruggedness’ across terrains of the world for decades. Toyota says the Hilux has been developed considering the local conditions and requirements even as it stays true to its character. Globally, the car sales have surpassed 20 million units in over 180 countries.
This global icon’s reputation of being a powerful performer is courtesy of the rigid Innovative Multi-purpose Vehicle (IMV) platform and a strong powertrain system. It is the same platform (body-on frame chassis construction) that underpins the Innova Crysta and Fortuner which have been a runaway success in India and across many countries. The Hilux comes with a heavy-duty turbo engine and diamond-like carbon coating on the piston rings for maximized frictional efficiency. The result is a whopping 500Nm of Torque which aids in better performance. The 2.8 L four Cylinder Turbo-Diesel Engine is available with the option of 6- Speed Automatic or 6-Speed Manual Transmission.
With the IMV frame structure at its heart, the Hilux has set new benchmarks in off-road capabilities. It comes with a water wading capacity of 700mm meant to manoeuvre though Indian trails. The wheel articulation and the adoption of electronic diff-lock also gives the Hilux great off-road capability in the toughest of conditions with greater fuel efficiency. The Variable Flow Control to the power steering has boosted drivability making the steering lighter at low speed in city traffic condition & heavier at higher speeds cruising on a highway. The steering dynamics adapts according to the drive mode – switching from Eco to Power, or Power to Eco. Of course, the signature feature is the large flatbed deck which provides unmatched flexibility to carry anything from outdoor gear to sports kits.
The length & height of the Hilux give it a robust presence. The engine hood, front bumper, lower guard, and bumper corners converge to bring focus to the bold & sophisticated trapezoidal piano black grille with chrome surround, Distinctive LED Rear combi lamps give a dynamic presence and enhance night time visibility. 18” alloy wheels are a standard feature on the Hilux. Inside, the leather seats, soft touch interiors with metal accents give it a modern and progressive look.
To enhance driving comfort the vehicle comes equipped with front parking sensors to ease parking in tight city conditions. The tablet style 8” touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay ensures you’re always in control and connected on the go.
Toyota Hilux comes with its fair share of safety features. The ABS, EBD, Brake Assist System and Hill-Start Assist Control ensures safe driving in any given road conditions. The car also gets features such as reverse camera, clearance sonar and back up sonar for all variants, with seven SRS airbags, Downhill Assist Control and Vehicle Stability Control.The SUV was awarded a 5-Star Crash Safety Rating by New Car Assessment Program for Southeast Asian Countries (ASEAN NCAP).
Toyota Hilux is available in 5 different colours – Emotional Red, White Pearl, Silver Metallic, Super White & Grey Metallic. Prices for the car start at Rs. 33.99 lakh (ex-showroom) for the 4×4 MT Standard model. The 4×4 MT High will set you back by Rs. 35.80 lakh while the top of the line4x4 AT High has been priced at Rs. 36.80 lakh.
The writer is Senior Editor at carandbike.com