It’s been a long frustrating wait for Hilux fans but the new flagship GR Sport has now arrived.
Hilux GR Sport is the latest Toyota to get the Gazoo Racing treatment, joining the Land Cruiser 300, Yaris, Yaris Cross, CH-R, Supra and GR86.
Available exclusively in dual cab format, GR Sport features an upgraded version of the standard 2.8-litre turbocharged diesel engine, but with revised turbo-supercharging and fuel-injection.
It increases engine output from 150 to 165kW and torque from 500 to 550Nm, making it the most powerful diesel Hilux ever offered by Toyota in Australia.
The six-speed automatic transmission has also been optimised to match the increased outputs.
GR Sport builds on Gazoo Racing’s Dakar rallying experience, with a wider track, greater approach angle, higher ground clearance, re-tuned suspension and bigger disc brakes.
There was input from Toyota Australia engineering which is recognised as a global centre of excellence when it comes to Toyota 4×4 vehicles.
Combined with sportier tuning for the automatic transmission and an expanded lock-up range, GR Sport provides added confidence for accelerating and overtaking in all conditions, enhanced by optimal control through paddle shifters on the steering wheel.
Track width has been increased to match Rogue, growing by 135mm at the front and 155mm at the rear, along with a 15mm increase in ride height.
The wider stance gives the ute a strong, stable and muscular stance with prominent satin-black fenders flares that integrate seamlessly with the bumper.
A strong upright grille with GR mesh maximises cooling while exterior body parts have been sculpted in the wind tunnel for aerodynamic efficiency.
GR Sport rides on 17-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tyres while its off-road credentials are further reinforced by the addition of a skid plate, rock rails and red rear recovery points.
Fitment of 265/65R17 Bridgestone Dueler all-terrain tyres enhance the on-road stance and off-road performance even further.
GR Sport’s suspension is augmented with KYB monotube shock absorbers tuned specifically for the vehicle, as well as the removal of the rear stabiliser bar which provides increased suspension travel.
At the same time the suspension upgrades have not compromised Hilux’s 3500kg braked towing capacity, that is supported by the fitting of a genuine towbar with towball and seven-pin trailer wiring harness.
Upgrades continue inside with seats upholstered in a blend of leather-accented and perforated suede trim, with silver accents for the perforated suede and grey stitching.
Red seatbelts provide sporty accents in line with the GR design theme.
The steering wheel features a leather-accented wrap with red centre mark, GR logo and paddle shifters, with a unique visual treatment also applied to the shift lever.
Aluminium pedals complement the new ‘Technical Mesh’ trim applied to the dashboard and doors.
The audio experience is improved with nine-speaker JBL premium audio.
GR Sport will be offered with Glacier White, Frosted White, Silver Sky (Stunning Silver from late 2023), Eclipse Black and Feverish Red finishes.
Glacier White, Frosted White and Feverish Red can be paired with a black roof.
GR Sport is priced at $73,990 plus on-road costs.
It offers all the active safety technologies found on the Hilux Rogue, and comes with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty.
This extends to seven years on engine and driveline, with capped-price servicing for the first three years or 60,000km.
Each six-month/10,000km service costs $290.
CHECKOUT: Toyota Yaris Cross GR Sport: Firm underfoot
CHECKOUT: Toyota Hilux Rogue: Back on the leash