The 2024 Toyota Hilux GR Sport is a powerful off-road beast that is set to go head-to-head with formidable competitors like the Nissan Navara Warrior, the Mazda BT50 Thunder, and the Ford Ranger. While it may not be in the same league as the Wild Trak X or the Ranger Raptor, we’ll explore whether the Hilux GR Sport lives up to its reputation.
With an impressive power boost and a host of off-road enhancements, we’ll provide a detailed review of the Toyota Hilux GR Sport, complete with some light off-roading. Buckle up, as this adventure comes with a price tag of just under $74,000, making it a substantial investment for off-road enthusiasts.
Exterior: Dominating Presence
The Hilux GR Sport’s exterior exudes a commanding presence that sets it apart from the standard Hilux models. You’re offered a range of color choices, some of which allow you to add a stylish black roof, a feature we find particularly appealing. Toyota has put a lot of effort into elevating the Hilux’s visual appeal, and it shows.
Starting at the front, you’ll notice black accents, bold scoops, and an aggressive look that demands attention. The full LED headlights provide excellent illumination for your adventures, ensuring you’re never left in the dark.
As we move to the side, you’ll find Bridgestone Dueler 17-inch alloy wheels with a striking piano black finish. The Hilux GR Sport also boasts a unique suspension setup with KYB shock absorbers, setting it apart from other models in the Hilux range. This results in a wider front track by 135 millimeters and a rear track that’s over 150 millimeters wider, giving it those unmistakable hunched fenders that scream off-road capability.
Off-road enthusiasts will appreciate the underbody protection at the front and the rated recovery points at the rear. Rock sliders add to its rugged profile, making this vehicle ready for some serious off-roading adventures. Privacy glass, a black roof, and a suite of practical features complete the exterior package, providing a striking and functional design that we genuinely admire.
Interior: Aged but with a Touch of Sport
Stepping inside the Hilux GR Sport, you’ll find an interior that, while showing its age, still has a sporty edge. The cabin boasts a combination of materials, some of which are a bit scratchy, and fake stitching that adds a touch of sporty flair. The Alcantara suede-style material on the center panels of the seats and leather cladding on the sides enhance the sporty vibe.
One striking feature is the red stripe running through the seats, reminiscent of other high-performance off-road vehicles like the Ranger Raptor. Paddle shifters are present on the steering wheel, along with GR Sport badges that remind you of the vehicle’s sporty credentials.
Infotainment and Connectivity features
The infotainment system remains largely unchanged, with an 8-inch display, AM/FM radio, and DAB digital radio. The JBL-branded nine-speaker sound system provides excellent audio quality, surpassing that of the Ranger. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, both wired, are available for seamless smartphone integration.
Comfort
The cabin’s comfort is quite satisfactory, with supportive seats and a dual-zone climate control system. The driver’s seat is electrically adjustable, while the passenger seat can be manually adjusted. The steering wheel provides both tilt and reach adjustments for a personalized driving experience. While the interior may show signs of aging, it offers adequate comfort and practicality for your off-road adventures.
Engine, Power, and Performance
Under the hood, the Hilux GR Sport features a 2.8-liter turbo-diesel engine, with an impressive 165 kW of power and 550 Nm of torque, making it more robust than its standard counterparts. This power boost, combined with a six-speed automatic transmission, provides a noticeable improvement in performance. The vehicle is capable of spirited acceleration, although there is still some initial lag.
On the road
The Hilux GR Sport offers a comfortable and composed ride, thanks to the extensive suspension and handling enhancements. The vehicle handles corrugations and rough terrain with ease, providing a stable and predictable experience. The extra track width contributes to improved stability, even during spirited driving on mixed terrains.
Off-road capability
While the Hilux GR Sport’s fuel economy is not its strong suit, the power and performance gains are well worth it for those who prioritize off-road capability. The engine’s torque delivery and four-wheel-drive capabilities make it highly capable when tackling challenging terrains. Be it rock crawling, river crossings, or sand dunes, this vehicle is up for the challenge. The improved ground clearance and underbody protection further enhance its off-roading prowess.
Practicality: Towing and Payload
One of the Hilux GR Sport’s practical advantages is its towing capacity. With a braked towing capacity of 3,200 kg, it’s ready to handle trailers and caravans with ease. The payload capacity is impressive as well, with a capacity of 933 kg. This makes the Hilux GR Sport a versatile choice for those who require both off-road capability and practical utility for work or leisure.
The rear tub is adorned with a protective liner, and four tie-down points add to the vehicle’s cargo-carrying capabilities. With the addition of the optional tow bar kit, this vehicle can truly become your ultimate adventure companion.
Safety and driver assistance features
In terms of safety technology, the Hilux GR Sport is well-equipped, offering features like autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, radar cruise control, and front and rear parking sensors. However, the 360-degree camera system could use some improvement, as the image quality leaves much to be desired.
Conclusion: A True Off-Road Contender
In summary, the Toyota Hilux GR Sport delivers a thrilling off-road experience with its robust power, improved suspension, and impressive off-roading enhancements. While its interior design may show its age, the cabin is comfortable, practical, and packed with safety features. This vehicle excels in its true purpose: taking you off the beaten path and conquering rugged terrain.
Are you considering the Toyota Hilux GR Sport for your off-road adventures? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
FAQ: Toyota HiLux GR Sport
A1: The Toyota HiLux GR Sport is priced at just under $74,000. This robust off-road beast offers a comprehensive package of performance and rugged capabilities for adventure seekers.
A2: The Toyota HiLux GR Sport is equipped with an impressive engine, boasting 165 kW of power and 550 Nm of torque. This power comes from a well-sized engine that delivers a thrilling driving experience, especially in off-road conditions.
A3: The “GR” in Toyota HiLux GR Sport stands for “Gazoo Racing.” This moniker signifies Toyota’s involvement in motorsports, off-road racing, and performance enhancements. The GR designation reflects the vehicle’s sporty and high-performance characteristics.
A4: The Toyota HiLux GR Sport comes with a diesel engine. This diesel engine delivers the torque and power needed for off-road adventures while maintaining a level of fuel efficiency. It’s a great choice for those who require both power and durability.
A5: The HiLux GR Sport offers a variety of exterior colors to suit your preferences, including Glacier White, Frosted White, Stunning Silver, Eclipse Black, and Feverish Red. Notably, a black roof option is available for the Glacier White, Frosted White, and Feverish Red color variants. This feature allows you to customize your GR Sport’s appearance and gives it a distinctive touch of style.
