The Toyota HiLux is known as a humble pickup truck. It has a simple mechanism under the hood yet is quite reliable. Besides this, it is sturdy and durable enough to haul every type of cargo, making it a useful workhorse for different kinds of jobs. The HiLux also has fairly low price points compared to other trucks in the same segment. The competitive pricing and noteworthy features make it a great option. 

Toyota HiLux features

Engine options
The Toyota HiLux has two engine options—a 2.8-liter four-cylinder diesel engine and a 2.4-liter petrol engine.

The 2.8-liter diesel engine is the latest upgrade for this rugged truck. It is more powerful than the 2.4-liter engine, with the capability to have a power of around 201bhp. So, for those looking for a pickup truck capable of moving at higher acceleration, the Toyota HiLux with a 2.8-liter engine would be a suitable choice. 

Besides this, users also have the option to choose between a manual transmission and a six-speed automatic gearbox transmission. The combination of the automatic transmission with the 2.8-liter engine takes the HiLux from 0 to 62mph in about 10.7 seconds. But with the manual transmission, the acceleration can take about 2.1 seconds more for the same distance. Despite their differences, both engines can effortlessly tow heavy cargo. 

Reliable suspension
Since the HiLux is designed to be a workhorse capable of carrying heavy cargo, its suspension is made to be stiff at the rear end, while the front suspension is a bit softer. Although this causes the bed of the truck to feel a bit bouncy on uneven terrain, it keeps the vehicle steady over rough roads and speed bumps. Besides, since most pickup trucks get a bit jittery over uneven roads, the stiff suspension is not a problem. In fact, it is reliable as it greatly improves handling. 

Simple and functional interior
On the surface, the Toyota HiLux has a simple yet contemporary interior. Its modern look can be attributed to the sleek 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is standard across all HiLux variants except the Active trim. But under the surface, sturdy materials are used on the console and dashboard. This makes the controls quite functional and easy to use. For those looking to add a hint of style to their rugged HiLux, the Icon variant and the high-end variants come with a leather-encased steering wheel. 

Further, the interior becomes more functional with the height-adjustable driver’s seat along with the complete electric adjustment in the Invincible X and GR Sport variants. Also, the steering wheel on all the variants is capable of adjusting and moving in and out as well as up and down. 

In addition, the Invincible X variant and above come with standard satellite navigation. Also, all models except the Active variant have Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability. Meanwhile, the Active variant has a standard radio with a CD player, USB connectivity, and Bluetooth.

High visibility
The Toyota HiLux is a massive pickup truck, which means the driver sits quite high up inside the truck. This means the side steps and grab handles are actually useful for getting in the truck and are not mere exterior accessories. The windscreen pillars are slim enough to easily see the end of the bonnet, so the forward visibility is quite impressive. 

But some drivers may find the view through the back a bit tricky since the rear window is small and the bed at the back of the truck is high. In such situations, a reverse camera is useful, which is standard across all HiLux variants except for the Active one. Additionally, the Invincible variant has front and rear parking sensors with bright LED headlights, making the driving experience seamless and safe. 

Comfortable passenger and boot space
The front passenger seats of the Toyota HiLux are roomy and broad, giving ample head, shoulder, and leg space. Along with spacious passenger seating, the HiLux has enough cabin storage space. This includes door bins of fairly decent sizes and a generous cubby hole right below the center armrest. In addition, there are two glove boxes and a tray with a USB port for phones and other portable devices. 

Plus, there are a significant number of cupholders placed around the cabin. Compared to the front seats, the rear seats are a bit less spacious. But for a pickup truck, they are comfortable enough for rear passengers to travel short distances. Further, the rear seats inside the cabin can be folded up to make space to carry extra things inside the truck. The HiLux can carry over 1000 kg of load in the bed and tow over 3500 kg, but not both at the same time. 

Competitive price points
Overall, the Toyota HiLux 2024’s price starts from CLP 32,490,000. When it comes to Toyota HiLux top models, the price can go over CLP 55,990,000. Besides, the on-road price of the pickup truck will differ across locations. Those looking to save a bit on the sticker price of the vehicle can visit local dealerships that give Toyota HiLux special offers on the on-road price.